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user_f3db3a

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user_f3db3a

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February 5th, 2026 17:05

Docking Station/KVM

I am trying to find a way to easily switch between a work laptop and a home desktop tower. I know this topic has been covered in other posts but I wasn't able to find a solution for me. Details as follows:

Laptop- Dell Latitude 3520

PC Tower - CyberPowerPC

Currently using a Dell Docking Station for 3 monitors (2 HDMI/1 DP) along with wireless keyboard and mouse:

Dell USB 3.0 Ultra HD/4k Triple Display (D3100)

Each computer plugs into power outlet independently - don't need docking station/kvm to supply power.

Each computer plugs into the docking station using a USB connection:

Laptop is from USB C

Desktop is from USB A

The "in" to the docking station is a USB B

Currently, to switch between the 2 computers, I need to unplug the corresponding USB cable from the docking station and plug the other one in. I am trying to find a solution where both can stay plugged in and I can easily change to whichever computer I want to use. I realize that I am currently only switching out one cable to do so, but would rather not have to do this. 

I am sure there is a way this can be done - but my limited computer knowledge is keeping me from identifying what I need to do. Any help is appreciated. 

  • ejn63

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    Posted February 5th, 2026 18:16

    There are A-B USB switches that may do the job you want.

    Example

    https://plugable.com/products/usb3-switch2

  • user_f3db3a

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    Posted February 5th, 2026 20:39

    I should have mentioned - I also tried something like that (maybe that exactly - I can't find the order receipt for that item). I plugged both computers into that through the USB C or A to USB B inputs and I plugged the docking station into the switch through the USB A. It didn't switch when the button was pressed. I guess there is the off chance I got a faulty product if that set up should have worked.