CNET Editors' review
Multiplicity compellingly answers the question of what to do with previous-generation technology that isn't as flashy as your new duds but not yet creaky enough for the dump heap. The software enhances an existing network by creating a power hierarchy that allows the keyboard and mouse of one computer to command operations for all other networked computers. The mouse flits across monitors, allowing users to copy/paste text, URLs, and images from one computer to any other on the network. (Multiplicity Professional also transfers files.) By dividing tasks between two fully-processing computers, Multiplicity improved our workflow and let us quickly and easily access files stored on multiple rigs.
Unfortunately, a brusque installation wizard caused hours of troubleshooting headaches while we configured the third-party firewall, a chore that will turn most novices off. Despite that, users will find that it's easy to adapt to Multiplicity's functionality, and will enjoy bouncing between computers without bogging down processing power or maxing out storage. While free, open-source, crossplatform alternatives exist, Multiplicity is worth a try for Windows users looking for a mostly user-friendly option.
Publisher's Description
From Stardock:
Multiplicity is a program that enables users to take multiple computers in their office and control them with a single keyboard and mouse. Each computer continues to have its own physical monitor(s) connected to them. When the user moves their mouse from the monitor connected to one computer to a monitor connected to another computer they are then controlling that computer. A universal clipboard is created between the computers so that text and images can be shared. This allows the user to multiply their desktop computing power immensely.
Version 1.24 includes updated support for Windows 7 (including Windows 7 64-bit).
What's new in this version: Version 1.26 is a bug fixing release.
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All versions:
3.5 starsout of 40 votes
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Current version:
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My rating:
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"does what it promises"
Version: Multiplicity 1.21
Pros
I like that it works as promised. It is easy to understand. As easy as when I was using 2 monitors. using 2 computers to do more things as if they were one. I have had little problems with other products from stardock and have receive great support.
Cons
Wish the full version was free or a little cheaper, but for the money it was worth it too
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"Can't find whether it supposed to work for Win 7 64 bit"
Version: Multiplicity 1.21
Pros
Nothing to like yet
Cons
Can't get it to work
Summary
Maybe if I could get it to work on my Win 7 64 bit computer I would be able to give an accurate critique
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"Multiplicity Pro Rocks"
Version: Multiplicity 1.21
Pros
Just downloaded Multiplicity Pro -
Easy download
Real easy to setup
Works great
Have not seen any system degredation so far
Can still use original mouse and keyboard for individual computers if you wantCons
None - software works well
Summary
I was a little leery after reading some of the reviews here but decided to chance it- Running 3 computers with 6 monitors- works like a champ - took me a grand total of maybe 10minutes to download on all 3 computers and configure. Wish I'd found this software earlier instead of using switch past 2 years. Cleaned up my desk a ton. Have had no problems what-so-ever so far.
Rick
http://strategiconlineprofits.com -
"Synergy is better"
Version: Multiplicity 1.21
Pros
None because this program costs money when there is an open source alternative.
Cons
Costs money
Summary
I agree with the other gent that said use Synergy. I have been before ever seeing his recommendation. There's a CNet video on it. It works with Mac, hell it may be old since its last version, but it works on my desktop and laptop both running student copies of Windows 7 Pro 64-bit, so its practically future proof and actually works with 64-bit. Adobe Flash doesn't even do that.
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"sucks hate it"
Version: Multiplicity 1.21
Pros
nothing at all
Cons
slow dont work
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"free alternative,"
Version: Multiplicity 1.21
Pros
download synergy for free - open source and it does the same thing but even better
synergy2 dot sourceforge dot net
Cons
its not free
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"Bugs in program, unusable, customer service does not reply at all (while promising to do so in 48 hours)"
Version: Multiplicity 1.21
Cons
I am using the program to copy and paste text from one program to another. Most of the time it only copies the first letter. (tried the same in two notepads to make sure the bug wasnt in the programs) I payed for the program, and on the webpage they promise to reply to customer service in 48 hours but they never reply.
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"newbies like this stuff"
Version: Multiplicity 1.21
Cons
i agree that stardock is a fraudulent program. i had window blinds and i had to reinstall windows a few times. window blinds wouldn't reinstall so i emailed stardock and asked for help, they accused me of giving the program out to everyone for free and i was commiting a criminal act. they refused to let me reinstall a product i purchased from them. but my computer runs a lot better with out that junk gumming it up anyway.
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"Wouldn't even try this"
Version: Multiplicity 1.21
Cons
Seeing that it's apparently buggy and it's limited capabilities, it has a way to go. I purchased MaxiVista which allows me to do what this does AND allows me to use the old PC as a extended monitor (ie. I work with three monitors) - very slick. Price is about the same for this and it doesn't do all that.
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"garbage"
Version: Multiplicity 1.21
Cons
anything from stardock is garbage. i'm into visuals but why pay for fraudulent programs? stay away from anything stardock, it's viral like aol.
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