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Connect webcam to two PCs

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    Connect webcam to two PCs

    Is there a way I can attach a USB webcam to two devices?

    I don't expect to use both devices at the same time so if I need a switching device of some description that's fine.

    Use case: I have a client provided laptop that I remote into using AnyDesk from my personal desktop so I can use the monitor, mouse and keyboard attached to that and keep the desk clutter down. The laptop is put to one side, well out the way of my working space. I have a USB webcam attached to my PC and positioned on top of the monitor. I need to occasionally show my face in meetings which means moving the laptop from its position and into the middle of my desk. This is a non-trivial exercise due to the amount of stuff I need to shift out the way so I'm looking for a way to share the webcam with both devices.

    #2
    Would it be easier to buy a second webcam?
    Failing that it sounds like you'd want a USB switch.


    Actually, rethinking it...
    Run a USB extension cable from the laptop to near your PC, unplug webcam from PC and plug into the extension cable when you need to
    …Maybe we ain’t that young anymore

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      #3
      https://cpc.farnell.com/pro-signal/s...1-1/dp/CS13283

      UGREEN USB 3.0 Switch, 2 In 4 Output USB 3.0 Sharing: Amazon.co.uk: Electronics

      0.5M/1M/1.5M USB Extension Cable USB 3.0 A male To USB: Amazon.co.uk: Electronics
      …Maybe we ain’t that young anymore

      Comment


        #4
        Simple enough.

        Thanks for the suggestion, I was completely overthinking it.

        Comment


          #5
          I just have a USB switch that doesn't have a built in cable (it uses a USB A to B cable to connect to the computer) I also have a second lead for when the keyboard, mouse and camera need to be connected to the laptop.
          merely at clientco for the entertainment

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            #6
            I simply unplug my device from one computer to another. The laptop port is easy enough to get to as it's ob the desk and my PC has USB ports at the front to plug it into. I do the same with the keyboard. Low tech but highly effective.
            Last edited by BlueSharp; 11 September 2020, 11:09.
            Make Mercia Great Again!

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              #7
              You can get automatic or manual USB switches. I used to use one to switch between two computers - so I had one keyboard, one mouse and one monitor (which I switched separately).
              Down with racism. Long live miscegenation!

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                #8
                My last foray into a KVM type device was many moons ago. I'm pleased to see they now do USB ones. Sounds like it'll do the job nicely, thanks

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                  #9
                  Originally posted by ladymuck View Post
                  My last foray into a KVM type device was many moons ago. I'm pleased to see they now do USB ones. Sounds like it'll do the job nicely, thanks
                  Doesn't your shiny new monitor manage some sort of KVM arrangement?
                  ---

                  Former member of IPSE.


                  ---
                  Many a mickle makes a muckle.

                  ---

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                    #10
                    Originally posted by wattaj View Post
                    Doesn't your shiny new monitor manage some sort of KVM arrangement?
                    Yes but no.

                    I have to install the Dell display manager app thingy on all devices to get full KVM (otherwise it just acts as a secondary monitor) and clientCo's laptop won't let me. Also, I don't think it'll work with a webcam

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