Using Keyboard & Mouse With 2 Desktops

[Dorito Bandit]

I want to be able to use 1 keyboard and mouse between 2 desktops, but will only use one desktop at a time. Whichever desktop I need to use at a given time, the other will not even be powered on. One desktop is for gaming, the other is for everything else.

What I'd like to know is this; is there simply a USB cable that will allow me to do this? Yes, I'm aware of KVM and USB switches, but since I will only have one PC turned on during use, I would just like to find a USB cable that will allow me to do this. If someone is already doing exactly this, what cable are you using?

If there are no simple USB cable options, I guess a KVM or USB switch will have to do and would appreciate your recommendation(s).

Thanks in advance everyone! I do appreciate your help!

 

[Janus67]

Synergy - Share one mouse & keyboard across computers

Synergy is an app that shares one mouse and one keyboard across multiple computers and monitors. Instant download, easy to setup in minutes.

symless.com

Something like that?

 

[WhitehawkEQ]

If I read right, there is no single USB cable that will do what you want.
This is what I use IOGEAR GCS72U 2-Port USB Cable KVM Switch with Audio with 2 PC's.

 

[Dorito Bandit]

Synergy - Share one mouse & keyboard across computers

Synergy is an app that shares one mouse and one keyboard across multiple computers and monitors. Instant download, easy to setup in minutes.

symless.com

Something like that?

Thanks!

If I read right, there is no single USB cable that will do what you want.
This is what I use IOGEAR GCS72U 2-Port USB Cable KVM Switch with Audio with 2 PC's.

Thanks!