Solving the Dual-Computer Single-Monitor KVM Puzzle with a USB-C Combiner Box

The author uses a MacBook Air and a FreeBSD desktop connected to a single Dell 4K monitor in their home office. The MacBook Air connects via a single USB-C cable providing power, DisplayPort video, and a USB 2.0 hub for mouse, keyboard, and webcam. However, the FreeBSD desktop only connects via a separate DisplayPort cable, requiring frequent unplugging and replugging of peripherals when switching computers. To solve this, the author explores using a USB-C combiner box to convert the desktop's DisplayPort and USB signals into a single USB-C signal, enabling convenient switching between the two computers on a single monitor without the inconvenience of a full KVM.