What you describe is a headless LTSP CPU Grid.It doesn't sound so complex but I've sure had fun trying to get mine to work last year.

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In my case it came down to incompatible hardware. I haven't given up. Just waiting for funds and the right hardware.

Otherwise, I have 4 machines next to my desk, but only 1 has Keyboard, mouse and VDU. I use that one to remote connect to the other 3 using Xvnc or SSH and SFT as I require. It's just a matter of configuring them for secure remote access first, then unplugging the K+M+V and plugging them back into the workstation. I use fixed IP addresses. Nice and simple. The more you mess about with this stuff the more you learn and it's great fun at the same time.