Summary
Currently, when a USB device is already in use by another client, any additional user attempting to connect simply receives the message:
“Device already in use.”
There is no built-in way for the waiting user to request access from the current one or to queue for the device.
Problem Description
In shared or team environments — such as labs, remote offices, or multi-user setups — several people may need to access the same USB device (e.g., dongles, measurement hardware, or serial adapters).
When one client occupies the device, others cannot signal that they need access. This often results in inefficient coordination via chat, email, or phone, and blocks smooth automation workflows.
Proposed Solution
Introduce a “Request-to-Use” feature that allows a waiting client to send a short access request through the VirtualHere server:
- When a device is occupied, show a “Request Access” button next to the “Use” option.
Clicking it sends a notification message to the current user’s client (and optionally to the server admin), such as:
“User X requests access to device Y.”
- The current user can then release or deny the request.
- Optionally, queued requests could be automatically granted when the device becomes free.
Benefits
- Enables smoother coordination in shared-device environments.
- Reduces manual communication overhead.
- Makes VirtualHere more suitable for multi-user and enterprise usage.
- Provides a foundation for automation via the client API (e.g., “notify & auto-connect”).
Optional Enhancements
- Configurable timeout: auto-release a device after X minutes of inactivity or unacknowledged requests.
- Integration with
clientAuthorization: allow custom scripts to handle or log access requests. - Admin override mode: admin can approve requests globally or enforce device-sharing policy.
Environment Example:
- VirtualHere Server on Linux
- Multiple clients on Windows and macOS
- Typical devices: hardware license dongles, test interfaces, or measurement instruments
Thank you for considering this improvement. It would make VirtualHere significantly more efficient and collaborative in multi-user setups.
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Actually this feature has been in for years, however it was disabled by default except for customers who wanted it.
However in version 5.8.9 of the client, i changed it so you can always get access to an in-use device by right clicking and selecting "Disconnect from User"
So just download the latest client (and server if you want) from this website and that feature is there.
It wont ask for permission however, it will just disconnect the device, so its free to use elsewhere. The reason there is no yes/no is this part can be scripted and adding a yes/no dialog will cause complexity in the existing scripts out there.