I have had the same problem, and figured that real good KVMs are pretty expensive so I went with a software solution instead. There are KVM apps that act as client/server and they work pretty well with multi-monitor / multi-computer setups
This app works pretty well and is fairly simple: https://github.com/debauchee/barrier
This is a fork of the well-known Synergy app which used to be open-source but is now a paid app.
Install the server version to your always-on PC (desktop) and the client to your macbook pro
Note that this will not share the USB devices though, this is just for Keyboard / Mouse. Not sure how to share other USB devices.
Can you use a grommet mount? Get something like the Northbayou Monitor arms - then head down to lowes and get a longer bolt.
https://www.amazon.com/North-Bayou-Monitor-Computer-Screens/dp/B01EHQL3LW?ref_=ast_sto_dp
This one might work, because I miss my standing desk. It is actually a bit too short for me to use as a proper standing desk, but I would just get a taller stool :)
Thanks for your link--it helped me fine this one!
Or this. HOMCOM Mobile L-Shaped Rotating Computer Desk with Storage Shelves Moveable Rolling Writing Table Home Office Study Workstation for Home Office, Grey https://www.amazon.com/dp/B089CTXSRM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_XWYEKJRF35RV84DEA7PN I had something similar before, you just have to clear off the lower part each time you slide it back under.
I believe the SL chairs come with plastic wheels like most chairs right? If so, buy yourself some better casters
I ran into issues with my downstairs router not giving great signal upstairs. I bought this amplifier off Amazon and it works great for me.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00R92CL5E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_96SQ5GNP7A38AP4BA1G7
I do not use a standing desk at home. I have one at work.
The health benefits advertised for standing desks aren't really scientifically proven.
I do like to stand once in a while, so I do.. I just don't do it because I've been told its better for me.
I do however highly recommend a pad under like this one, that promotes you altering the placement of your feet so you dont get foot pain from standing flat footed all day.
Thank you! And yep, Its a MacBook Pro setup. No real "docking station" in play, just a Belkin mini dock that hangs in the cable mgmt pouch behind the desk. I run the Viotek ultra-wide 49" and the 32" above through the 2xHDMI from the doc. The portrait HP 23s on the sides are fed straight from the MBP via a couple of UBS-C to DisplayPort cables from Amazon. All the mounts are relatively inexpensive Vivo desk mounts, again from Amazon. I use the last remaining thunderbolt3 port on the MBP for power. Hope this helps!
Belkin MiniDoc - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07R5CB6HY/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
USBC-DP Cables - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B075V27G2R/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1
RICOO Dual PC Monitor-Halterung 2 Monitore Neigbar (TS3811) Bildschirm-Aufhängung Universal für 17-27 Zoll (bis 7-Kg, VESA 100x100) Büro Schreibtisch Doppel-Tisch-Ständer Höhenverstellbar https://www.amazon.de/dp/B083WK1WMV/
This type doesn’t extend past the desk. Not sure it’s available in your country.
I’d be concerned if those three things overload your circuit, but I think this is what you’re looking for?
If you search for “power strip with switch” you’ll find several options.
Eco-Friendly Metal Power Strip with USB, Individual Switchs Circuit Breaker, Long 6 feet Extension Cord 3 Prong, 5 Outlet & 2 USB, Wall Mountable Black Electrical Power Strip for Home Office https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0851XV662/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_iY6-Fb8FQRP52?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
These are from EVEO and very high quality for the price. Not gas spring but I rarely reposition them. Very sturdy and not too flashy.
You can get it on Amazon here.
I would get glass. A blackboard generates a lot of chalk dust. You could get a whiteboard and if you use Expo cleaner or other solutions can get it pretty clean. But glass is the cleanest
In a dream world it would be magnetic as well. They sell them, but they are really expensive. A quick amazon search found this. You can likely find it cheaper or make something as well.
​
https://www.amazon.com/Quartet-Whiteboard-Non-Magnetic-Infinity-G4836F/dp/B07SYDG1SF?th=1
Thank you. The desk is solid oak 1800x750. We built a shelf again the wall and added 2 legs. I created a double socket pass through behind the monitor so I can route all my cables into the walls and across the back to my PC. The monitor bracket is just a fixed 100x100 vesa mount for Amazon. mahara TV Wall Mount Bracket-... https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B016YCMHRG?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share My old setup had the 34” curve Samsung monitor and a 27” curved monitor in a vertical orientation. I couldn’t quiet set the same setup on this desk due to the location of the window so I think I’ll upgrade to the 42” OLED monitor from ROG
This vivo mount which isn't the most ideal, but it's $60 and if I wanted more articulation it's about 10x that cost.
I over indexed on “warm” vs “cool” LEDs, it was the vibe I was looking for. The link below are the ones I got and can’t be happier with them nearly 2 years later. While my desk is no longer against a wall in a windowless room, I still like the ones underneath it at night or early mornings.
Led Strip Lights 16.4 Feet... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07PLXWPXL?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
If it's an office you probably don't need audiophile speakers, so there are a lot of options.
These will give you decent sound and Bluetooth as an option: https://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-ProMedia-Multimedia-Compatible-Workstation/dp/B09XBFN4NR?source=ps-sl-shoppingads-lpcontext&ref_=fplfs&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER
Whoa. This is going to be a Rube Goldberg scenario for sure.
Here’s what I can think of… Get one of these for each monitor:
DotStone HDMI Switch Bi-direction... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01L8LLP2G?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Connect monitors to VGA/HDMI adapters (if needed). Then connect those bi-directional switches. Then DisplayPort to HDMI converters for all of your DisplayPorts (laptop and PC). And I’d still only use the Pi over VNC on the PC instead of a hardware switch.
I have been using this for months now, under $300 and it is the most comfortable office chair I have ever used probably. I use it at my work from home job but sit in it after work to watch tv or play some video games or whatever. Get one. I think they were just $199 recently even on sale
Omg, the best tower fan I’ve ever owned! Here it is! It comes with a remote control, has a screen that reads the room temperature, is incredibly smooth moving when oscillating, has multiple speeds (the lowest of which is nearly silent and the highest of which is just loud enough to offer white noise that doesn’t interfere with meetings, which is what I wanted in an office fan), and has settings like “wind” that sorta ebb and flow in intensity (like… the wind!). 10/10 recommend. Lmao.
Your laptop definitely shouldn’t be overheating like that! But, I know most of us can’t just go out and replace our computers when we want to. I use this. I always have mine open to use as a second monitor while hooked up to my 27” external monitor. I just utilize the MacBook display for Slack, iMessage, google calendar etc. while utilizing my large display for my actual work. My MacBook doesn’t overheat but this stand is made to help avoid that issue anyway! It’s also excellent as a riser so you look straight ahead at it instead of down.
Great chair, have the same one. My only suggestions would be to ditch the plastic casters and replace them with something like this: https://www.amazon.com/wheels-replacement-casters-hardwood-duty/dp/B01G643EU6
I have a contractor’s table that I got on sale from Woot. Here it is on Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/Plan-Station-Portable-Workbench-WS3800/dp/B075V3LX1H). You’ll have to get plywood inserts which will raise the cost. There is also a smaller version. I bought this near the start of the pandemic as I was working remotely from different locations. There is also a smaller version. https://www.amazon.com/Plan-Station-Portable-Workbench-WS3700/dp/B075V3LX1J
Consider your use case(s). If you need something to support your project that involves hammering, this would not be a good option. I have even used it on dining room tables to claim “my” space.
Have you had a look at KVM solutions? Some such thing like this:
https://www.amazon.com/Sabrent-2-Port-Type-C-Delivery-USB-KCPD/dp/B07Y2HKN37
I’m sure with a bit of googling you find one with the correct port configuration, just not sure about monitor connectivity.
I have a chair mat from Costco and it's held up for years now. That said, you can consider changing out the wheels, too. There are ball bearing wheels that you can get that make the chair easier to move. Maybe that would help on the thinner ones?
I understand this is a lot of money to talk about.
But if this really is your home office, and you're spending 6+ hours a day sitting there.
Get a real chair.
At the least, go find a used HM Aeron. They go on surplus sale all the time, you just gotta look for them. Make sure the Lumbar support still works.
If you can hack it, and seriously, its worth it, get a HM Embody. I've had mine for 10+ years, its still perfectly comfortable, and aside from where the cat chewed on an arm rest, looks really good for its age. Yeah, thats a $1300 chair, but its worth every penny, and your posture and back and neck and butt will thank you.
Also, if its really a home office, its a tax write of...
---
If thats out of reach : https://www.amazon.com/Cushion-Lab-Pressure-Relief-Seat/dp/B08RCV3MRP?th=1 is probably something that will help.
Hi,
Random option (as I'm not knowledgeable on hearing difficulties) but have you tried anything like bone conduction sets before... if they work for you, something like the Shokz UC might be good. I think they have a returns policy from their website (and there's normally an offer code going on) if you can't try them anywhere else first. I have a basic pair and they're pretty cool for music (I use them most days).
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Conduction-Bluetooth-Cancelling-Telecommute-Videoconference-Black/dp/B09F572Q69/ref=sr_1_1?crid=39T21CE9PPUWP&keywords=shokz+uc&qid=1661121281&sprefix=shokz+uc%2Caps%2C53&sr=8-1
I've had other people with degraded hearing try them and been quite impressed. They do other headsets too (like the ones I have), but in all honesty the mics are bad because they're more for sport but the UC ones (linked above) are much better... AND you can fold the mic boom back if listening to music or out and about.
Just an idea.
If you are concerned at all, consider adding a reinforcement plate like this one. It is a little pricy for a pair of padded steel plates, but I wanted to make sure my dual monitors were not too putting too much stress on such a tiny section of my desk.
https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B08CK24TCX?psc=1&ref=ppx\_yo2ov\_dt\_b\_product\_details
1) bigger desk and 2 monitors.
2) Get monitor arms to raise your monitors to eye level.
4) sound dampening panels for walls that can double as artwork
This is the one I got for my two monitors and get . I have Windows, not Mac, though. I keep wanting to buy a dock so I don’t tie up a USB-C port for just monitors.
https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B0894B525X?psc=1&ref=ppx\_yo2ov\_dt\_b\_product\_details
At $93.00 on WalMart it's probably great.
At $1435.00 on Amazon, no way.
Here's the link to the product page on Amazon. They're really beefy and are easy to move up and down and reposition. I definitely recommend them!
I got this for like 300 bucks and it's great. Can program specific height settings and the table top is all one piece. If you look closely at other desks in this price range their tops are not a solid piece. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B087XBK4WJ?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
You can get good double stick tape (not the cheap stuff but 3M) and affix the laptop brick directly to the bottom of the desk to keep it up out of the way.
For overall cable management and power strips I've gone to using cable boxes. They allow you to hide everything in the box so it just has the power strip cable coming out to the outlet. They're not perfect but they look way better than cables hanging out
Cable Management Box, 2 Pack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08B46GBSY?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
I was looking at getting two of these monitors. I know I need my second monitor. I went a month without one and I was lost 😂 I also don’t have the privacy for a nice mic, I’ve had luck with my Jabra headset and it hasn’t glitches out on me (yet)
Miroco Light Therapy Lamp,... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B081MT6Y5B?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
This works great for me. Have it above my monitor so I get the same effect of a ring light without the circles in my eyes
I grew up on big clunky IBM keyboards in the 80's. Over time I used other big clunkers, and eventually modernized with the times.
These days I find that most all of the thin/slim units feel terrible, but I have also found that heavy keys just give me fatigue anymore. Additionally, they are loud, so keep that in mind.
I did a couple year hunt looking for something that was nicely tactile, but not too loud. The best option I found so far is the Microsoft Surface Keyboard. No, it's not the add-on keyboard for the surface tablet. It's excellently clicky, but not too loud at the same time. It feels great to type on, and 2x AAA batteries lasts about 7-8 months.
I have an Anker PowerConf S3 https://smile.amazon.com/Anker-PowerConf-Speakerphone-Conference-Compatible/dp/B0899S421T/ref=sr_1_1_sspa I'm pretty happy with the sound, battery life, ease of use, Bluetooth range. It's clear that they do some processing of the sound that the mics pick up. While people on the other end rarely complain about the audio, it does sometimes block sounds - the best example being a cowbell - nobody else on the call could hear it if I tried ringing it quietly or loudly, despite my voice coming throughjust great.
I'll say it's a safe choice as long as you don't need more cowbell.
I’ve gone through a few and finally landed on this one. It’s been really good for me.
Jabra Speak 510+ UC Wireless Bluetooth/USB Speaker for Softphone and Mobile Phone https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B00BKD738I/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_FFYB77WT215CD157PTRZ
Not a speaker phone but I have one of these headsets and on calls most of the day and its comfortable and really blocks a lot of background noise (dogs at my house mainly) https://www.amazon.com/Bluetooth-Angteela-Wireless-Microphone-Canceling/dp/B087QD67SS/
I have this running 3 monitors and some other things..not really a docking station but just the one USB C plug in my Dell laptop so easy to plug/unplug https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08SC432PX/ref=ppx\_yo\_dt\_b\_search\_asin\_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Update: This little switch from Amazon has been perfect! Signal is crystal-clear and noise-free as far as I can tell--far below ambient. I couldn't hear any difference in my A/B recordings.
The switch is heavy, and each of the components feels high-quality. Totally recommend if you're running a similar setup :)
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B097BS7XR6?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
I just added a twin-size bed to my home office because in summer I often have trouble sleeping through the night.
I grabbed a $250 or so 8-inch memory foam mattress from Costco and a simple wooden frame to match the IKEA countertops that make my desk. I'm trying to keep it simple on the off-chance I get transferred to Europe in a few years or have to move to one of the US coasts.
(Bedframe: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06WWGVJHM/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
Idk about being under 100. Under 100 you're looking at something like this
UGREEN USB 3.0 Switch Selector 4... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N6GD9JO?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
And even this is really just allowing you to use Mouse and keyboard across multiple devices without unplugging. I have a device that does what you need in the post but it was close to 300. They are expensive for sure.
You're looking for an audio mixer:
That one is probably overkill but I'm not familiar with what the market is like now; I've had mine for over a decade at this point.
Its an audio mixer.
idk if they make one specifically for computer use but its a thing in the audio world. Connect two audio sources, level them, hear both at once.
Or get a bluetooth headset that can connect to multiple hosts. Sony's nicest cans do that.
Yeah, good question. The only product that I've ever found seems to be this one (canadian link btw). I didn't think it was worth the trouble and have two headsets; one for work and the other for personal, on my desk and simply swap when I need to take a call.
If you're a true multitasker and have a multi-monitor set up, then a software solution may be possible but again, I wouldn't think that to be worth the trouble.
I recently bought this VIVO monitor stand adapter for my Dell SE2719HR monitors and it was a lot cheaper than some of the other options I saw. Not sure if it will work for yours, but it cut the price in half in my case!
Fair point. Was looking at this mount, it would be attached to a basic ikea desk.
I purchased this and it’s phenomenal TESmart Dual HDMI 4x2 Dual Monitor KVM Switch 2 Port Updated 4K @ 60Hz, Support HDCP 2.2(Red) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B083NGXHWG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_6KNNYQ9JTNGV55BCB2C4?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Those IKEA bookshelves looks so nice like it’s built in. I was going to suggest if you wanted to add some acrylic shelf dividers on the shelf and thought that would look nice on them. Just to make it stand out.
I got this one last year. It’s been pretty solid. It has adjustable tension on the arms and does not sag at all.
Mount a shelf to the wall. Put something useful or aesthetically pleasing on it.
Clip this to it: https://www.amazon.com/Adjustable-Flexible-Gooseneck-Rotation-Logitech/dp/B08D1YQQ81/ref=cm\_cr\_arp\_d\_product\_top?ie=UTF8
Can try something like this: https://smile.amazon.com/Plugable-Universal-Docking-Station-Ethernet/dp/B00ECDM78E/ref=sr_1_11?keywords=usb+docking+station&qid=1644794792&sprefix=usb+do%2Caps%2C92&sr=8-11
Never used one myself but seem to get good reviews.
Look at getting some form of screen behind you - it can be suspended from the ceiling - Amazon have some printed ones. If you are using zoom it will take advantage of a green screen.
Neewer Green Screen, 5x6ft/1.5x1.8m Wall Ceiling Mountable Chroma Key Green Backdrop for Background Removal, Pull Down Auto-Locking, Wrinkle-Resistant Polyester, Aluminum Shell for Video Game Stream https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07XP2D123/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_XYQ0M0EEXD4B3C4AFG0Q
I’ve been using this. It’s pretty big however. Have two in my loft.
SHW Home Office 55"x60" Large L Shaped Corner Desk, Cherry https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07Q3XY4D4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_NWPNW3GFN5TH4NA3RVZH
This worked for my standing desk: D-Line Cable Management Box, Cord Organizer Box to Hide & Conceal Power Strips, Desk Cable Management Solution, Made from Electrically Safe ABS Material Link
I think nice furniture has always been expensive. Nice bed, few thousand, nice couch, few thousand, nice table? 1k, nice chair also 1k lol. For cheap (under 400) I'd go
HON Ignition 2.0 Mid-Back Adjustable Lumbar Work Fog Mesh Computer Chair for Office Desk (Black Fabric) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06Y3PGPYN/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_PAMTYBSQQXP2FCFCAQYA
Or
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GNDDNMW/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_CTGMH6NKWXT6BMNGTAVM
I have this one https://www.amazon.com/Canon-TR4520-Wireless-Printer-Printing/dp/B07G5XZVLG/ref=mp_s_a_1_7?keywords=canon+pixma&qid=1643128709&sr=8-7
Generic. Prints well. Supports air print.
I see it has mixed reviews, but have had no issues with it for almost 2 years of ownership. Cartridges are also affordable.
I went through a similar search at the beginning of the covid work from home transition.
The device you're looking for is called a KVM (Keyboard Video Mouse). I'll warn you it's a very deep rabbit hole that led me to learning silly amounts about HDMI specifications across generations, input lag, and all sorts of other nerdy things.
Ultimately the KVM I needed (had to handle an ultrawide monitor and high refresh rates for gaming on my home PC) ended up being absurdly expensive. So I ended up with a 2 button approach: just switching inputs using the monitor's buttons and pairing that with a 2-device switching USB hub. I got this one because the switch is on a long cable which I mounted behind the monitor, directly behind the input switch button. Overall I am very happy with the setup, wouldn't change a thing.
FWIW that hub was $50 when I bought it so you might shop around for alternatives if you go this route. And depending on your needs and budget, you might have better luck than I did with the KVM. Hope it helps, happy to answer any follow up questions if you have any.
I got it on Amazon, I really like it and for the price its really stable and I didn't have to modify my desk at all. It slid right under the riser just perfect!
I'm running these Creative Gigaworks T20 speakers now for just under 10 years and I'm still thoroughly enjoying them. They also still don't feel old at all. I would buy the same ones again if they would die.
I also like how I can make the appearance change by adding/removing the mesh.
These have been working well for me for about the past year and well under budget. I'm not an audiophile, so I have seen some comments about loss of some midtones, but I listen to music all day to drown out sounds in the rest of the house, take Zoom calls and then watch Netflix/play games on my personal desktop at night and they work great for me. This is also a nice extra addition to point the speakers upwward
Something like this should work.
Either this or you need a second docking station and a more typical kvm switch to toggle the monitors from one docking station to the other.
I use one of these for a similar purpose, two PC's one monitor and shared peripherals:
(Also added a USB to 3.5mm adapter to add speakers to the switch)
UGREEN KVM HDMI USB Switch,2-Port HDMI 4K Switcher Box Keyboard Mouse Printer Monitor Sharing Selector with USB Hub for Laptop,Desktop,PS4,Xbox One,Support Keyboard Hotkey & Auto Switch,2* USB Cables https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07M8YZDVZ/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_Q59GX42HXZVQDPWRWP5T
Some of them say power delivery but it’s rarely especially clear if that means they have an AC plug included, and then connect from the dock to the MacBook, OR if i need to plug my charger into the dock..
The caldigit soho for example seems like one of the highly rated ones, but as far as i can see i just have to put my MacBook charger “through it” as opposed to it being powered and then charging the laptop with it.
thisis one that definitely looks to do what looking for but no idea of plugable is a good/reputable brand.
I'm currently using an Ergotron as well, and it was not cheap. I'm re-decorating and wanted a different style for my dual 27" monitors. I got this as a replacement but haven't used it yet: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B084JD96TB?psc=1
Something like this would be needed: https://www.amazon.com/HD-602-Splitter-6-input-2-output-Supports/dp/B00F4ORUG4
Just keep in mind that this is a bottom of the barrel kind of deal, and anything of decent quality gets expensive quickly.
I have this, solid as a rock and adjustable LCD LED Monitor Desk Mount Arm Stand Bracket. Very Strong and Light Weight Die-Cast Aluminium supports up to 10Kg 30" monitor with Tilt and Swivel (Dual Spring Adjustable Monitor & Laptop) https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0781P2WGZ/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_HFC4N8VGPQBP4NS2RBC4?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Hahaha, those chairs are hilarious!
My work had some like this (link below) in conference rooms and I'd get one if they weren't as expensive as they are.
Pemberly Row Leather Guest Chair with Cup Holder in Gray https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B078SHPXVT/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_ZR2GDZ0WE7ZRZ7CM5ZEN?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Perhaps some kind of happy medium between these two options would be perfect.
Not exactly sure what the situation is but have you considered rollerblade style wheels?
Office Chair Caster Wheels by SunnieDog - Replacement Rollerblade Wheels for Office Chairs - Heavy Duty, Long Lasting Rubber Protection for Hardwood, https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01CGZPOK2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_nVxmIe9cIRx4S
I have something like this. 2 in, 1 out. Press switch as needed.
Is it perfect? No. Does it do the job? Yes.
I just zip tied it to my monitor arm so that the light would be coming for up above since the tripod was shorter
I would make a mechanism so you can hang it under your desk. Or you could buy something else and drill a hole in your desk to install something like this: https://www.amazon.com.au/SEDNA-Grommet-Charger-Tablet-iPhone/dp/B012XKINJE
You could get something like this:
TOPSKY Dual Motor Electric Adjustable Standing Computer Desk for Home and Office (Pink) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B092D4QM94/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_PATYDV3SQKYYMY0P4XY9?psc=1
And put it just ‘inside’ the drawers
Get a proper surge protector/multistrip, plug in all the devices, and then put the entire mess in a cable management box
I still physically own the desk, but I don't work on it. Right now we use it to feed the cat (because if the cat-food bowl is on the floor the dog will eat from it until she pukes).
I have zero paperwork and my job is 100% computer-based, so I don't need room to write.
I run linux with a keyboard-controlled auto-tiling window manager (i3]), which is efficient enough that I don't miss multiple monitors. I can see how if you're stuck running Windows you might want the desk solely for the multiple monitors.
Hey there u/sono-gomorrha, I am unsure your setup, but have you checked out the Synergy software? I use it as a way to control multiple CPUs with one mouse and computer. It has done well for me working on a home mac and work pc, using the 2 CPUs basically as an extended desktop setup.
Checkout https://symless.com/synergy it has really helped my productivity over the years.
So I used to do this. You want to do the following 2 things:
Install Synergy - it allows you to move your cursor from one screen to another (yes, across different machines) just like you were running a multi-monitor setup. It event supports copy/pasting from one to the other IIRC. Really is absolutely amazing software.
Get yourself a KVM button - I used to use this one. You can press the button to switch any devices (usb or monitors) plugged into it from one machine to another. Good if you don't have synergy running or need direct input into your second machine.
Any questions give me a shout :)
you aren't getting call forwarding without having a phone system.
You could do something like asterisk for free (software) at home.. but you're going to end up doing some voip anyway.
Haha....I hear ya....We tried this and it's helped: https://www.amazon.com/RYB-HOME-Blackout-Insulated-Curtains/dp/B076HL6P7X/ref=sr\_1\_5?dchild=1&keywords=portable+Sound+Blocking&qid=1634748030&qsid=133-7864411-1540638&sr=8-5&sres=B00HD0ELFK%2CB081K8FW3V%2CB077Q2HYMW%2CB076HL6...
I always worry about pushing things off my desk or stuff rolling off of it. Having the desk against the wall alleviates that quite a bit. If it's your home office, the people in your house should respect your privacy when you work. I've considered a room divider as a backdrop for me when I'm on teleconference calls. I also considered it for when people walk in on my in the office. I haven't gotten one yet but it's been on my mind for a while
I'd definitely get AC in the room, central air if you can afford it/make it happen. You'll spend a lot of time in the room so you want to be comfortable. Again, if you go with a window unit, you'll have to wear headphones with some sort of noise blocking to have some piece and quiet.
What desk do you have? I'm always curious about home office desks. I may recommend it to others.
Thanks for the reply... I’ve found another one similar to the Lifetime, only $34. A little smaller and not quite as sturdy as I’d like but serves its purpose
https://www.amazon.com/Lifetime-28240-Adjustable-Folding-Laptop/dp/B0006D50RE
I use this folding table as well. I code while on the couch and use this all the time. I wish there was an option for one to slide under the couch like this table
https://www.amazon.com/Medical-Adjustable-Overbed-Bedside-hospital/dp/B06Y6L4XG2
I don't think this is sturdy enough to rest on while you use a laptop
Do you need color printing?
It not just get this laser printer for $70.
Brother HL-L2300D Monochrome Laser Printer with Duplex Printing (Renewed) https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B083MYW72S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_8Y53GGH7HTRHMKHWFX1S
Brother laser printers are always reviewed well.
From brothers website, it says the dimension is 16.1” w x 20” d x 16.3” h.
I have Brother MFC-L590DW that’s 19.1x16.8x19.5. I bought a printer stand that sits next to my standing desk and easy to reach. It keeps the printer off the ground, easy for me to access paper tray and also have a ream or two under and toner replacement ready to go. Hope this helps! Balt low laser printer stand
From brothers website, it says the dimension is 16.1” w x 20” d x 16.3” h.
I have Brother MFC-L590DW that’s 19.1x16.8x19.5. I bought a printer stand that sits next to my standing desk and easy to reach. It keeps the printer off the ground, easy for me to access paper tray and also have a ream or two under and toner replacement ready to go. Hope this helps! Balt Low Laser Printer Stand, 27501, 14''H x 17''W x 17''D, Brushed silver steel frame, Gray laminate shelves https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0013PBT9C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_AWF9W7AF1J4YP6HEJK9E
Hi again, I was looking for some cheaper alternatives and was wondering if you thought this https://www.amazon.com/Adapter-Monitor-Display-Docking-Charging/dp/B08BYJYC5K/ref=psdc_778660_t1_B08SC432PX or something like it would work for my purposes? It has usb-c and ports for 2 HDMI cables. I can't charge a laptop with it but it saves me like 200 bucks. Do you think this works with my thunderbolt port and USB 3.1 (Gen 2 Type-C) port and will allow me to extend the view to use the two monitors? Appreciate your help again.
It would depend on the model of the KVM switch, but I wouldn't expect there to be any limitations since it's basically just a port pass through. As long as you can plug into it with your computers and the devices, it should be fine.
The advantage of a KVM is that you don't need to unplug anything to switch between computers. That's pretty much it. If you don't care about that, then sure a docking station would be perfectly fine.
This is the model that I use for my home office, but it's a bit expensive. It's probably overkill if you don't need to run triple 4k monitors (that's why I got this specific model).
Thunderbolt and USB-C can both connect to a Thunderbolt port... In other words, you can use one cable to switch between your laptops as long as the docking station has a Thunderbolt connection.
Note that the reverse is not true - you cannot always connect Thunderbolt to a USB-C port. So I'd go with a Thunderbolt dock in your case.
I have what I think is a similar model to this https://www.amazon.co.uk/BXAC40007GB-Portable-Conditioner-Dehumidifier-Cooling/dp/B084ZL4L1P/ref=mp_s_a_1_6?_encoding=UTF8&c=ts&dchild=1&keywords=Air+Conditioners&qid=1632687835&s=kitchen-appliances&sr=1-6&ts_id=10706421
And it works wonders on the hot and stuffy days.
After some thought, I finally broke out of my narrow thinking and realized I didn't need to switch the computers' connection to the monitor. Like your set up, I'm only switching the USB peripherals. Found a $25 solution with a decently reviewed KVM switch from Amazon: UGREEN USB 3.0 Switch Selector 4... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N6GD9JO
You can get an audio isolator to filter ambient or background noise in your microphone, it’s a filter you can plug to any headphones that have audio jack input, this is an example https://www.amazon.com/BESIGN-Ground-Isolator-Stereo-System/dp/B06XQYN77L/ref=mp_s_a_1_15?dchild=1&keywords=Ambient+Sound+Filter&qid=1631382035&sr=8-15
StarTech.com Dual Monitor DisplayPort KVM Switch - 2 Port - USB 2.0 Hub - Audio and Microphone - DP KVM Switch (SV231DPDDUA) Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003N3BU6E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_4GVYDMENEBVJYSKPTBDR?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I was going to order this one later this week, might be a good starting point. Did not look into it’s efficacy for Macs.
You could get applied plastic glare reducer. Or perhaps consider a nice New monitor with anti glare built in ?
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00P31BMHG/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
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That's the exact one I have. It's perfect. It costs $12.