computer with no monitor -- how to run

  • Thread starter Thread starter R. Dale Shipp
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R. Dale Shipp

I am contemplating replacing an older P II computer. I'd like to
continue using it for certain purposes by sticking it under the desk and
just letting it run 24/7. I have a wireless router and it is plugged
into that network via cable at present. I can access the various hard
drives on it over the network from another computer.

The question is whether or not there is a way in which I can maintain
that computer without it having a monitor, keyboard or mouse attached?
Clearly, it would continue to run any programs that were started, but
how can I start programs over the network?

The computer is running XP Home. It has 128 meg memory -- the max
allowed and is a Pentium II+. My other computer is running XP Pro.

Any pointers to where to look for generic info would be appreciated, as
well as specific suggestions.
 
R. Dale Shipp said:
I am contemplating replacing an older P II computer. I'd like to
continue using it for certain purposes by sticking it under the desk and
just letting it run 24/7. I have a wireless router and it is plugged
into that network via cable at present. I can access the various hard
drives on it over the network from another computer.

The question is whether or not there is a way in which I can maintain
that computer without it having a monitor, keyboard or mouse attached?
Clearly, it would continue to run any programs that were started, but
how can I start programs over the network?

The computer is running XP Home. It has 128 meg memory -- the max
allowed and is a Pentium II+. My other computer is running XP Pro.

Any pointers to where to look for generic info would be appreciated, as
well as specific suggestions.
Click to expand...

You could buy a KVM switch and cables so you can share one
monitor/mouse/keyboard between the two PCs.

--
The reader should exercise normal caution and backup the Registry and
data files regularly, and especially before making any changes to their
PC, as well as performing regular virus and spyware scans. I am not
liable for problems or mishaps that occur from the reader using advice
posted here.
 
You can get the KVM as Null points out (Sorry), there are
some nice little 2 units versions you can pick up for
maybe 30 bucks.
You may need it too, a lot of older MBs won't boot w/o a
KB and / or Mouse.
Once running though you can use VNC or ?? to connect
remotely.

I have a machine that runs my house and thats what I do,
although I use Remote Desktop.

KlK, MCSE
 
A KVM switch is definitely one solution, but you may be able to get by with
just VNC alone.

You need to ensure that the system will boot without a keyboard, mouse or
monitor. Sometimes this means changing bios settings about detecting
keyboard errors, and some OS'es throw up an error when a mouse is not
detected.

VNC needs to load as a service. Put a password on it. This requires at
least two boots in my experience. I like the current builds of UltraVNC,
myself.

You'll need to set up an autologon, using TweakUI or start, run, control
userpasswords2, and unchecking the checkbox at the top of the users tab.
I'm uncertain whether the latter method works on XP home.

This all works best if there's a monitor and keyboard within striking
distance of the headless machine, in case of an unexpected issue which
crashes VNC and isn't resolved by a hardware reset.
 
You could buy a KVM switch and cables so you can share one
monitor/mouse/keyboard between the two PCs.
Click to expand...

I've seen those switches. Worth taking a look at, thanks.
 
Once running though you can use VNC or ?? to connect
remotely.
Click to expand...

What is VNC?
I have a machine that runs my house and thats what I do,
although I use Remote Desktop.
Click to expand...

The computer I want to set up is using XP Home. Will Remote Desktop
work on it? I thought it was just on XP PRO (which is the system on my
main computer).
 
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