Reply To: Who uses real hardware?

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dr_st
Participant
#9179

Ditto! That retro room looks so amazing and comfy. I immediately spotted some components similar to what I have. My primary desktop (which I’m posting this from) also stands on an white Ikea table-top, probably made from the same material. It’s larger though – I believe a single 160×80 piece, hosting a desktop and a 32″ Benq PD3200U UHD (4K) LCD.

Most of my other setups are spread out around the house, typically 2 per desk – this way there is one desktop (monitor, keyboard, mouse, speakers) for two computers -a desktop and a laptop, or two laptops.

Switching between two PCs connected to a single set of accessories is challenging, as you noted. Fortunately, some modern monitors offer built-in USB KVM switches and can even switch automatically depending on which video input is in use. The DELL UP3017 in my home office is one of those.

Speakers, as you noted, are a challenge. There are several ways about it – one is connecting them to the monitor, and have it receive video from HDMI/DisplayPort. This works for modern computers and screens. The other one is getting sets that have a separate AUX input for connecting a second device. Of course, a separate mixer solves the problem without limiting your choice of peripherals.

I also recognized the 2007WFP – it is truly an iconic monitor, and I have one too, although sadly it’s not used anymore, because there are not enough desks. 😛 If I had just another desk for retro machines, I could put the 2007WFP going between two retro Thinkpads – a T42 and an X32 – which are currently stored away. Honestly, though, that would be more of a museum piece, as there is not much those systems could contribute that isn’t already covered by other systems I own.

BTW, jefklak, thanks for sharing your website! I see there are quite a few articles I will enjoy reading. 🙂