Ask HN: Hardware to use MacBook keyboard and trackpad to control Mac mini
2•WorldDev•3mo ago
Does anyone know of a hardware solution, like a mini KVM/USB switch, that uses directly the integrated keyboard and trackpad of a mac book, to control a mac mini?
Basically I'd like a KVM set up, but without the need for an external keyboard and trackpad.
The Mac keyboard and trackpad do not have external connectors. A hardware solution would require opening the MacBook and wiring ports and a switch from those devices. There is not a plug and play solution.
WorldDev•3mo ago
Thanks for the pointers. The two devices are in 2 distinct security perimeters. So I was hoping to avoid software that link the two. I don't know if malware could use these software to propagate from one of the device to the other.
iwanttocomment•3mo ago
You may want to consider an IP KVM for the Mac Mini, then.
I assume you have a little software on the controlling computer that sends keystrokes over the network, they are received by this device, and sent via usb to the controller computer, simulating a usb keyboard?
Do you have experience with it? How is the latency? Does it work with the macbook trackpad?
iwanttocomment•3mo ago
I have used IP KVMs to manage remote machines over the years, yes. They are what you described.
The latency is adequate but not on par with a physical keyboard, and latency will depend on network performance.
IP KVMs can and do work with the MacBook trackpad, but as above, performance is not what you would expect from a wired, real-time connection, and you should not expect multi-finger gestures to work unless explicitly advertised.
iwanttocomment•3mo ago
Universal Control: https://support.apple.com/en-us/102459
Synergy: https://symless.com/synergy
The Mac keyboard and trackpad do not have external connectors. A hardware solution would require opening the MacBook and wiring ports and a switch from those devices. There is not a plug and play solution.
WorldDev•3mo ago
iwanttocomment•3mo ago
They're getting small: https://www.ikoolcore.com/products/jetkvm
WorldDev•3mo ago
I assume you have a little software on the controlling computer that sends keystrokes over the network, they are received by this device, and sent via usb to the controller computer, simulating a usb keyboard?
Do you have experience with it? How is the latency? Does it work with the macbook trackpad?
iwanttocomment•3mo ago
The latency is adequate but not on par with a physical keyboard, and latency will depend on network performance.
IP KVMs can and do work with the MacBook trackpad, but as above, performance is not what you would expect from a wired, real-time connection, and you should not expect multi-finger gestures to work unless explicitly advertised.
WorldDev•3mo ago