Connecting webcam to multiple Apple devices

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Connecting webcam to multiple Apple devices

Hi,

I have a instalink 360 webcam which I want to use with both my Mac Studio for personal Zoom calls and my M2 MacBook Air (company owned) for work related Zoom calls.

I don’t want to have to switch the cable from the Mac Studio to the MacBook Air and vice versa, every time I want to use it.

Would the best solution be something like a CalDigit docking station? If so can someone explain the cabling setup required.

Would it require a cable from the Mac Studio into the dock and another cable from MacBook Air into the dock and then the webcam directly into the dock also?

Any help is greatly appreciated! 🙏🏻

Posted on Apr 7, 2024 10:32 AM

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Answer 1

Apr 8, 2024 11:00 AM in response to lukejuan

Assuming your camera connects via USB, you will need a KVM switch. Make sure you get the correct one, depending on your USB interface (A or C). You can find one on Amazon for less than $50.

You will have three USB cables connected:

Camera to KVM IN port
KVM Out port 1 to Mac Studio
KVM Our port 2 to MacBook Air

The KVM switch will allow you to choose which computer the camera is connected to by pressing a button. Some of them even support switching the output via software.

Good luck!

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Answer 2

Apr 7, 2024 11:06 AM in response to lukejuan

A Dock interfaces to ONE computer, so a solution with Docks involves TWO Docks and you still have to move a USB cable.

At about US$250 from Amazon, the best solution of you don't want to move one USB cable is to buy a second webcam.

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Connecting webcam to multiple Apple devices

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