Let's say you have a decent PC at home. You want two people to use a PC at the same time, so just creating two user profiles on the same PC won't cut it. At first, it seems the only solution is to purchase a second PC.
But what if you can convert your single high-end PC into two mid-range computers? Here's how you can save money by using multiseat software to allow two people to use one computer at the same time.
What Is a Multiseat Configuration?
Back when computers were a new invention, it was prohibitively expensive to get just one CPU. These machines used to cost much more than a car; thus, companies and universities needed to share one computer across multiple users via a multiseat configuration.
One computer could have up multiple monitors, keyboards, mice, and speakers attached to it. A multiseat app will then assign each of these peripherals to a unique user, allowing different people to use the computer simultaneously.
However, the introduction of the personal computer caused their prices to nosedive, making it viable to purchase one computer for each user. Nevertheless, multiseat computers still have a place in modern society.
For example, if you need multiple terminals for simple tasks—like database access or internet browsing for a public library—it is more cost-efficient to have one high-powered multiseat device than several low-end CPUs.
What Are the Hardware Requirements for Multiseat Apps?
If you're planning to set up a multiseat computer of your own, you have to have at least one monitor, mouse, keyboard, and audio output per user. You can connect the mice, keyboards, and speakers to your computer via USB, and in case you need more USB ports, you can use powered USB hubs to connect these devices.
However, most modern monitors require dedicated VGA, HDMI, or Display Port slots. If you're using a computer with an integrated GPU, you will have to check how many monitor output slots the motherboard provides. If it only has one port, you will have to install a dedicated video card that lets you plug in more than one display.
Additionally, you shouldn't use a laptop to set up a multiseat computer. That's because its small form factor and limited ports might cause connection issues and cooling problems. Furthermore, laptops typically aren't as powerful as their similarly specced desktop cousins.
The Advantage of Multiseat Computers
The main advantage you get from a multiseat-configured CPU is savings, especially if you already have a powerful PC. If you have a desktop CPU at home and both your kids demand to have their own device, you can split that single desktop into two computers just by downloading a multiseat app and buying a cheap keyboard, mouse, speakers, and monitor.
This is even more affordable than buying a second-hand desktop computer since you don't have to buy the CPU. You also save on electrical consumption since you're only powering a single processor. And if there's only one user at the moment, they will get to enjoy the CPU's maximum capability.
Another advantage is that you'd get to save money on upgrades since you only have one desktop computer. You also get to save on software licensing for some apps, as you don't have to purchase multiple licenses since the app is installed on the same computer.
When You Should Buy Another Computer Instead
While multiseat configurations have some advantages, it has some disadvantages as well. For example, if the central computer malfunctions, all users won't be able to use any computer. So if you're setting this up for crucial office work, or if your kids are in high school and need to have access to their school work all the time, you should reconsider.
And if the prospective users need mobility over computing power, you should consider getting multiple Chromebooks instead.
How to Make a Multiseat PC
Once you've added the peripherals you need for all users, the next thing you need is to install a multiseat app. You can use a dedicated multiseat app like ibik ASTER or a virtualization engine like the VMWare Workstation Player.
Multiseat apps are generally easier to set up and use. Once it's installed, it will automatically detect each monitor connected to your computer, and it will then create an individual desktop for display. When you turn your computer on, it will automatically launch, so the users can start using their assigned computer without additional setup.
The primary disadvantage to this option is that it isn't available for free for personal use. You can test out the ASTER app for one month, but you will have to pay for it afterward.
On the other hand, the VMWare Workstation Player isn't easy to set up and requires additional licenses for each software you install per user. It also consumes more computing power compared to dedicated multiseat apps.
However, it's free for personal use, so you don't have to spend just to get it running. It's also useful for other applications, like running multiple operating systems on one computer. So if one of the users needs Linux while the other user needs Windows, you can opt for this solution instead.
Two Computers for the Price of One
If you already have a decently powerful computer and need two devices for general use, like internet browsing and general productivity, you don't have to shell out a lot of money for a new computer.
Instead, get a second-hand monitor, a cheap keyboard and mouse combo, and a USB speaker, then install a multiseat app. With that, you can let two users (like your kids, or maybe your retired Mom and Dad) use the computer simultaneously.
And if you're concerned that two people will lose their data if their computer breaks, you can sign up for cloud storage, so you'll have online backups. Besides, most modern computers are tough enough to withstand years of use without breaking.
But if you're planning to use this setup for productivity, like crucial office tasks or time-sensitive deadlines, then you're better off getting a second affordable computer. After all, the savings you make with a multiseat computer isn't worth the hassle when you have two unproductive colleagues because of one broken CPU.