Synergy: the Software KVM (or just KM) Switch
March 14, 2008
Having multiple computers can be a blessing when trying to multi-task, but trying to control them all at once can take a lot of room. Hardware options are available. They are called KVMs, which is short for keyboard, video, and mouse switches. However these hardware options require a constant hardware connection. This makes it impractical for laptops, or when substituting the KVM for the real keyboard/mouse/screen set up is not desired.
This is where Synergy — a software option — can really shine. And yes, it works with Ubuntu.
While Synergy is not a true KVM, it is quite helpful in a multiple computer situation. Synergy‘s website probably says it best:
Synergy lets you easily share a single mouse and keyboard between multiple computers with different operating systems, each with its own display, without special hardware. It’s intended for users with multiple computers on their desk since each system uses its own monitor(s).
Features
This small piece of software is available in the universe repository. Here is a short list of features that it has.
Synergy can send keyboard and mouse information across a network to another computer, even if that computer is running a different operating system.
Synergy can send text and picture clipboard information across a network to another computer, even if that computer is running a different operating system
Turning on Scroll Lock can “Lock” a mouse and keyboard on one screen so no accidental switches occur.
Client machines can still use their own keyboard and mouse. They are not locked out just because you are running Synergy
A screen can be it’s own neighbor, so you can wrap your screen around itself.
Synergy is fully configurable for any number of screens with different links between them.
Easy Setup
While Synergy