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[Z0001]

Hi

I use Splashtop to control my HTPC from my laptop when I want to do things like tagging, ripping my new discs with anydvd etc. When I'm using MC to play back I use my big flat panel TV.

Is there a way to have my HTPC deliver theatre view in exclusive mode to my flat panel by HDMI and to deliver a separate "virtual screen" which I could use with Splashtop? This would allow say my kids to watch their shows while I do other things on the HTPC such as some tagging in MC or ripping discs.

Not sure if this is stretching smooth playback possibilities!

Cheers
Z

[jctcom]

Not sure about your Split screen question.  I am sure someone else will answer that.

But I have a much better way for you to control your HTPC from your Laptop Mouse and Keyboard.

It is called "Synergy" you can find it here:  http://synergy-foss.org/

I have been using it for about 1 1/2 years now in my Living room with my Keyboard / Mouse connected to my Notebook beside me.  Just slide the mouse to whatever edge you decide to use and automatically pop over to the other computer and then back again.

It is still currently free  (Though less hassle for updates with an eventual $1.00 donation lol)

Carl.

[Z0001]

Thanks for the idea Carl. It's not quite what I am needing though. I need to be able to use the HTPC via a remote desktop so that I can do stuff on the HTPC while someone else is watching a video, rather than needing to control another computer. But the software sounds interesting.

[jctcom]

No problem.  I knew I wasn't answering your split screen question.  But now I think I also misunderstood how you were using Splashtop. I use Splashtop on my iPhone as a "touch Pad" for my big screen TV which is in front of me.  But I think you are using a version for remote control similar to the way I use LogMeIn.

Ok.  So that being said.  Does Splashtop see and allow you to switch between monitors?

If so.  You should be able to designate the big screen as the secondary monitor and set it up so that JRiver opens on that screen. 

If not you may want to try LogMeIn as it will see and allow you to switch between monitors.  Unfortunately there is no longer a "free" version of LogMeIn but you can try it to see if it will work for you.

I still see two potential issues for you though.  The first is I don't know if JRiver requires HDCP Compliance.  If it does you may not be able to run it full screen with a second monitor running  (I Think though that most people have gotten around this somehow in recent years)

2nd.  The remote for JRiver uses a lot of "Keyboard Strokes" and you may have issues with either you or the kids stealing the keyboard focus to the other monitor?

Hope that helps.

Carl.

[jctcom]

Actually I just re-read your question again.  Are you trying to do this without a second monitor?  Like the "Virtual Screen" is hidden or something?

The only way I can think of to do this (But it might work quite well?) Is to set up a Virtual PC on the computer and log into that rather than logging into the actual computer.  But you will still have to find a way to prevent it from popping up on the main screen when you log in I think?

Carl.

[Z0001]

Thanks for the thoughts. My HTPC is just connected by a single HDMI to my TV. That is my only physical monitor connected to the HTPC. I use Splashtop (or RealVNC) as a remote desktop app from my laptop so that i can sit at a desk and more comfortable "work" on my HTPC. What I ideally want is for my HTPC to dish out 2 monitor signals, one being to my big telly to watch videos on, and one to a virtual monitor which my remote desktop viewer can see. This way we can have people watching a video on the telly (they generally don't need a keyboard or any controls) and me working on a second virtual monitor via a remote desktop app. Not sure if this is what yr solution will do, bit I'll think about it some more.

Cheers!
Z