Multiplicity (software)

Multiplicity is a computer program that enables one keyboard and mouse to access two or more client computers from a host computer. It was developed for Stardock as part of their ThinkDesk subscription service, but is available separately.

Operation and features

Multiplicity is unlike remote desktop applications in that instead of opening windows to a client computer on a host computer’s desktop, the mouse pointer and keyboard focus shifts from one computer to another. It is closer in concept to a KVM switch, but while these have multiple cables to each computer, with Multiplicity the keyboard and mouse remain connected to the host computer and input is forwarded from the host to client machines via network connections — typically over TCP/IP port 30564.[1] Each computer uses its own display.[2] Switching is triggered by movement of the mouse to the appropriate side of the screen (or keyboard shortcuts, if desired), both from the desktop and in full-screen video modes.[3][4]

Multiplicity comes in two versions; the standard Multiplicity has the ability to copy and paste images and text between computers,[2] while Multiplicity Pro can control up to nine client computers and can copy files, folders, and other data between machines.[5]

Supported platforms as of 2016 are Windows 10, 8, 7 and Vista; Windows XP (32-bit only); and Windows Server 2003 / 2003 R2, 2008 / 2008 R2, 2012 / 2012 R2.

Multiplicity can emulate the capability of the KVM switch and let one display serve all the connected computers. The modern alternative would be the combination of an HDMI switch and a USB switch (aka a KVM), but the software-hardware comparison remains equally valid.

Multiplicity does not permit combining computers with different operating systems, like macOS and Linux.

Alternatives
  • x2x – Software for the X Window System that allows the console (keyboard and mouse) on one X terminal to be used to control another X terminal. It also provides ancillary functions like clipboard sharing. Developed in 1996 by David Chaiken at DEC.
  • Synergy – A free software option that allows users to use a single keyboard and mouse to control multiple computers over TCP/IP. It is multiplatform (supporting Windows, macOS, Linux, and others), and supports text copy and paste. More capable version of ShareMouse, and made by the same company.
  • Mouse without Borders - This is a Garage product from Microsoft that allows a single keyboard and mouse to operate up to four different computers.
  • Barrier – A Creative Commons fork of Synergy's 1.9 branch.
  • – A cross-platform Windows and Apple macOS option allowing users to control any networked computer from the mouse and keyboard of any other computer. ShareMouse does not require any manual configuration and works in any direction. ShareMouse is also available as a portable application.[6]
  • Any remote desktop software that runs on the X Window System, together with a suitable window manager, can achieve the same effect, though not as efficiently. This does not require the use of multiple displays, but Xinerama can be used if multiple displays are desired, as long as one of the machines is capable of connecting to multiple displays at the same time. As this approach transports the output to the primary machine, it can be too slow for demanding video/audio apps and games.

References
  1. Matt Lake (September 2005). "Three Screens, No Waiting". ComputerUser.com. Retrieved 2006-12-27.
  2. Neil J. Rubenking (25 February 2005). "Multiplicity Pro - Full Review". PC Magazine. Retrieved 2006-12-27.
  3. Jeff Partridge (21 July 2005). "Multiply Your Abilities". Lockergnome. Retrieved 2006-12-27.
  4. Don Reisinger (August 21, 2007). "Stardock Multiplicity Software Review". PC World. Retrieved 2010-02-02.
  5. Anne Chen (6 June 2005). "Pings and Packets - Multiplicity Tidies Up Work Spaces". eWeek. Retrieved 2006-12-27.
  6. "Mouse and Keyboard Sharing". Retrieved 2012-10-10.
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