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Home Theater Keyboards?
Meeper writes "I've been commissioned to build a Home Theater Computer system, but there is a distinct lack of keyboards that are suitable. The keyboard needs to be equipped with Bluetooth connectivity, compact, and include a built-in mouse or touchpad. The keyboard will be used on couches, so a solution such as the Logitech diNovo Media Desktop is unsuitable due to the normal freestanding mouse. Have any Slashdot readers used a keyboard which fufills my requirements?" Or, on the other hand, what best-compromise solutions have you come up with for melding ease of use with sufficient control?
Depending on what I want to do with my HTPC, I access it wirelessly through either RDC or VNC with the tiny iBook I normally keep sleeping under the couch.
Absolute control, and it's smaller than most wireless keyboards. The only real downsides are price (if you wouldn't buy a tiny laptop anyway) and that establishing control takes about 2-3 seconds.
RD
Get a trained monkey. You know you want to.
I use Windows remote desktop (RDP) on my laptop to access my media box...
Gyration has the best solutions I've found. Their mouse can be waved in the air to move the pointer, and they have a compact keyboard + mouse set that's intended for HTPC type solutions. It's not cheap stuff, but it looks nice and works well.
http://www.digitalconnection.com/Products/keyboard /sk7100.asp
Harass some company, we need a bluetooth trackball for this kind of setup.
Its not quite what you are asking for, but I've good results in that area using an iPAQ and writing my own little apps to allow the functionality I require. It can also double-up as a universal remote control for parts of the system that aren't necessarily under computer control. If its a dedicated home theater system I would have thought this would make more sense actually; an PDA is a smaller, handier size and it would be a pain to have the cat hit "CTRL-ALT-DEL" on a keyboard half way through a feature.
Plays violent online games as: Nerfherder76
This is probably the worst answer to this, but, if you can't wait for a laptop to start up just to use it, you might want to think about those rackmount screen and keyboard combos. They're expensive*, and I'm not sure if they have a mouse, but if you need convenience!! *$3K
Hurricane Ivan: A 17th century prison collapsed. All of the inmates escaped.
A regular wireless keyboard, and one of the wireless Gyroscopic mice. With a little practice, you can operate the mouse mid-air well enough for desktop work/demos. I wouldn't want to use it that way for FPS gaming, but they typically have a ball or optical unit as well. We've got a setup like that at work (Logitech on both), and it is fantastic... as long as you remember to drop the mouse in the charger at the end of the night.
Don't blame me, I voted for Kodos
A simple control, or PocketPC (if you can afford it) should suffice. Check out some Linux projects that feature Tivo and Media system like projects. If you can't get control configs to work out well, try a VNC client with a PocketPC, a bit expensive, but great control.
I don't have a home theater pc, but for my home pc I use a Logitech cordless keyboard and cordless trackball mouse which are velcroed to a board. I use velcro so I can replace the batteries when they die.
Bluetooth is not required for a home theatre keyboard. I used a Keytronic wireless IR keyboard with built in glidepoint trackpad for some time. I ended up replacing it with a smaller keyboard (no numeric keypad, integrated arrows at the bottom right) with a built on joystick-style mouse controller. They were both PS/2 and had IR receivers that went at the front of the room.
There are a few RF solutions, but none that have all of the features that *I* would like, and Infared works well enough if the receiver is placed well that there's no need for much more than that.
Do not look into laser with remaining eye.
It performed reasonably well while I used it, but it's not been in use for a year or two now...simply because I spend all my PC time on my laptop instead of through the PC connected to the TV.
It was great for Midtown Madness on my 42" screen though!
Give a hand, not a hand-out.
I setup a system recently and am using the Logitech Bluetooth MX Duo. The optical mouse works on everything but my glass top, including my couch. It works just fine for me. Granted some other options might have changed my purpose. Right now it is pricy, about $200US, but it's the only thing available at common locations.
I can't believe no one has mentioned the Gyration product line. They are gyroscopic mice. You don't need any surface to make them work. Here is a link to my personal favorite.
I haven't heard of any major complaints, but thene again I haven't gone looking for them either.
I just use a normal remote. But then again all I do is normal STB type stuff. No surfing or anything that would need a keyboard. I've seen wireless trackball keyboards, but nothing I'd want to use.
The Doormat
If you're not outraged, then you're not paying attention.
My goal with my HTPC was to integrate it into my home theater as much as possible. That means using all of the components from a basic infrared remote.
My MyHD HDTV PCI receiver card came with an IR receiver, so that was not a problem. There are many remote control options for the various DVD player packages.
An app like Girder can combine many applications and PC control functions for IR control.
For the things that I cannot do via remote, VNC from my laptop lets me have full control. Or, a basic wireless keyboard/mouse are handy in rare occasions.
I use the "FreeBoard model No. GL3001" (Also marked as an "iFree")
It's a USB attached unit that uses RF wireless (900Mhz I think). Has built in Trackball and mappable mutli-function buttons. I can control my HTPC from two rooms over if necessary. And runs on standard AAA batteries.
I bought it a year or so ago from Directron.com
Well, Infinium Labs had one demoed at E3 for their console. I'm not sure if it works on a regular PC.
There's the which is nice (RF versus Infrared is always better). It has a built in thumbilina (thumb mouse).
Beyond that...Remote desktop via a Tablet PC works...
Just add {In Space!} to anything.
http://www.directron.com/rf250.html http://www.directron.com/rf25key.html These both use RF... not necessarily bluetooth but they would do the job.
If you like what I've said here, and want to read more, go to http://www.krillrblog.com
If RF (not bluetooth) is good enough for you I have these are pretty good....
http://www.fentek-ind.com/wireless.htm
Good luck mate, and make a few bucks. =)
#SickNotWeak
My htpc uses a simple ir receiver with a universal remote I picked up from my local sony store. Cost me about 50$ and an afternoon of my time. I use a program called girder to map my remote buttons, and depending on what I want to do I just switch the remote to say, vcr mode to take care of settings that wouldn't fit on the first "page" of keys. I know it's no good for typing, but it's an htpc so that's not a prevalent issue I hope. I'm able to map all the keyboard keys and shortcuts I need to operate the htpc and even to perform regular maintenance like deleting old files and media, defrag and such. The only time I need to plug in a keyboard at all is when I install a new media module or some other new feature, but that's rare. I know it's not the solution you were looking for, but I've been using my set like this for nearly a year and I love it. Just look at the size difference of a remote and keyboard if you're not convinced, remember whatever you choose will need to be picked up/passed around/stashed away (or sat on)
Don't get me wrong, I'm all for Bluetooth. But I haven't seen anything outside of Logitech's diNovo that uses Bluetooth.
Is IR really not good enough?
Put a LED display on the top of the keyboard to display what you are typing out. Also make the keyboard lap friendly and use wireless.
LED display will keep you from having to lookup (and change focus) when your not a typist (or a little drunk)
What I would recommend would be the Girder "remote control" app, coupled with a good plugin or IR reciever of some sort - set up the hotkeys as you like, and just use a nice wireless trackball for the mousing. Don't know how much typing you'll do on a HTPC, but they have already mentioned the mini wireless keyboards from Gyration.
[SQL Error ID 10-T: This sig. is above your current threshold.]
The same could be said for the quality of Microsoft's security -- it's unheard of.
I was wondering for one just what all you needed the keyboard to do? Why not just the Logitech MediaPad? It would seem as many have mentioned a normal wireless keyboard would work or as many others have suggested a PocketPC even with a keypad option. As far as BlueTooth compliancy, as far as I know and other that a PocketPC with Bluetooth capability, the Microsoft and the Logitech are the only Bluetooth Keyboards around, at least in normal channels. There is another thought you could check out TDK's site at http://www.tdksystems.com/index.asp where they have a product that you might consider custom integrating that is called "blu2i" which is supposed to allow virtually any product, existing or in development, to be enhanced with wireless connectivity. If nothing else they may be able to tell you what keyboard company if any is looking to integrate or is in current developement with thier product.
Just use an RF keyboard like a Gyration (http://gyration.com/). The mouse, while not part of the keyboard doesn't need to be used on any surface. Nice and compact as well.
You can do it on X window, too. (rdesktop)
"...a generation of kids has grown up thinking Trance is the shittiest music since country and western." - Paul van Dyk
How secure are bluetooth keyboards? Is it possible to somehow sniff and read the connection? I suspect it's dumb question but the idea of a RF keyboard makes me little nervous. I guess I'm too old school.
"And a voice was screaming: 'Holy Jesus! What are these goddamn animals?'" - HST
I'm currently sitting in my home theatre typing this on my MS wireless keyboard (PS2). I have the receiver placed near the screen, with wires reaching to the computer in the next room. I use a standard wireless mouse on the wooden arm of the couch (purchased with this in mind).
It works great - well enough to play FPS games in here.
Let's not stir that bag of worms...
Are there any translator utilities that can convert your typical videogame control-pad style "joystick" into being treaded as a mouse?
First, bear in mind that Slashdot "editors" are not like typical and sundry media editors. Typical editors check stories for completeness, accuracy, and (at least superficially) ensure the author did his due-diligence when it came to fact checking.
Slashdot "editors"---on the other hand---are hard pressed to ensure the same story hasn't run within the last 48 hours; their success rate is in the low thirty percentile range (subscribers---Taco's coup de main for getting people to actually pay to do the "editors'" job---help out in this regard). Fact checking is non-existent, as they could care less about discouraging plagiarism (most external stories are copied word-for-word), and ensuring stories are topically relevant is for "old media" establishments.
To sum, when you submit a story to Slashdot, the "editors" do the least amount of work possible to get it up on the front page. If it generates enough hits, then that is all they care about.
I don't know how easy it would be to find one today, but if you don't mind the added IR receiver, I happen to like my 'Surf Board' for keyboard stuff. The label on the back records it as an SK-7100, and there is support for the multimedia keys on this board for Linux, as well as Windows.
I have also used what I will call a wrist board with my laptop, as well as a couple of desktop systems, and I think it would work well as a remote for a pc based home theatre system. It is burried somewhere in storage right now, and I do not know if there is support for it in Linux, though it did come with Windows drivers, so it should work as part of a Windows based home theatre setup. Basicly it had the form of an old atari portable game system, you rested it across either wrist, it had buttons under several fingers you held the thing with, and a stylus and drawing pad you could use as a mouse, or a direct access mouse pad via your other hand.
My primary controller for my home theatre today is the Hauppauge! remote that comes with the PVR-250 board. It works well for all the gui stuff under KnoppMyth and reportedly works well with FreeVo, though I have not tested that. It does come with drivers for Windows, so that should work well also.
The only time I resort to a keyboard is when I need to do things that require text entry. That is currently less of an issue than it has been in the past. I can see it being important for someone who wants to set up passwords to restrict access to material and videos they would rather their kids not see, or listen to, but even that has been very workable via standard remotes for the past several years on digital cable systems, Sat receivers, and even some DVD and VCRs. With the V-Chip in TVs, I suspect they are controlling that via the number pad on a remote as well. Keyboards should be considered suspect in well designed home theatre systems in my opinion.
Granted that's an opinion that you may not share.
-Rusty
You never know...
hehe... I don't think anyone gets it ;p kudos to you though.. funny stuff
>Microsoft is definately top of the field when it comes to hardware
why-oh-why does this keep being said? I have yet to see anything rebadged by them which would last half as long as a quality offering from a real manufacturer.
> the quality in these products is unheard of.
Ah, now your coming to your senses.
The only thing I fear is to not have enough flexibility on remote control products offered here and there. Example: Soundblaster Audigy 2 Platinum's remote control. Creative's software was REALLY limited for using that remote control; I had to rely on a third-party program to have enough flexibility. For example, when using Creative software I couldnt use the numeric keys (0-9) on the RC except in Creative's media player. There was other limitations too, but i forgot.
My point is: make sure you check for some alternative software in case the one coming with your brand new remote control lacks in flexibility.
"...a generation of kids has grown up thinking Trance is the shittiest music since country and western." - Paul van Dyk
If you can compromise on Bluetooth, I'd recommend the keyboard/touchpad combo from Wireless Computing. These are designed for long-range wireless, like conference rooms and auditoriums (100'), but do very well in closer situations also.
I've got a phillips IR keyboard, i don't think it was originnally intended for standard PC use,, some buttons had proprietry labels (no numeric pad), but i fixed the labels,, it works nicely,, plus you can program a learning remote to it, and program the play for the the space bar,, very handy... I bought it for $20 from a flea market... the mouse however, i was less lucky... i'm currently using a serial trackball sitting on my coffee table. It works quite well, i made a 40 foot extension cable, and thanks to the low speed of a serial line it works perfectly... the cable runs all the way along the wall to the couch,, then under the couch and up onto the table, kind of tacky,, but extremely effective...
Reece,
This is what I want. Bluetooth. Does it exist?
If this is being controlled with Windows, there's the Accessiblity setting "MouseKeys" that lets you control the cursor with the num-pad. I assume Linux must have something similar.
"The question of whether a computer can think is no more interesting than that of whether a submarine can swim" -EWD
Here is a recent summary of keyboard-and-mouse-in-one units for HTPCs. I can summarize it for you in a few sentences, though: None of the Bluetooth keyboards are suitable for home theater use (too big or no integrated trackball). The few otherwise usable HTPC keyboards use either IR or a proprietary RF scheme, both of which have either range or line-of-sight limitations
The scenario:
A small dark room in the lower level of a house (read: "parent's basement").
An lcd screen on the wall hooked up to a Slackware box.
A replica Captain's Chair from the USS Enterprise (for obvious reasons only a single chair is needed).
The computer is voice activated and responds to the name, "Sulu".
Act 1:
Me: "Mr. Sulu, set course for http://www.slashdot.org."
Computer: "Aye, captain".
Me: "Engage!"
I'm seriously drooling just thinking about it. That, my friends, would truly be living.
"Warp speed!," my fellow slashdotter!
I'm currently using my old Logitech cordless trackball and the Avermedia Digital TV Cards remote. I just wich the trackball's range was a little better but I don't need any surface.
Stopping myself...Abort (core dumped)
I agree with you to a point... but with the range of bluetooth,, i think their suggestion of IR is a good one. While IR is directional, it tends to have a much better range than bluetooth in my experience...
Reece,
If you are using the HTPC to play DVD's and media files like many people, PowerDVD makes a nice little remote that you can use to run all the necessary player functions.
What I do is put that remote up in the viewing area, and a real keyboard/mouse/LCD panel in the back of the room attached to the HTPC. The monitor is actually slaved to my Mitsubishi X400 projector, which gets the primary XGA feed from the Radeon card.
This lets me play "maximum projectionist" from the back of the room when needed (I like to make trailer reels from Apple.com for example), but watch media from the couch with just a remote like the good old days.
Since it will be difficult to find a suitable mousing device, and you are designing the rest of the system, just design it so that all controls can be accessed via the arrow keys.
-DB-
E-mail is like a prison: a prison with no walls... and no toilet. -Strong Bad
I have the zaurus controlling the tv via wireless, and vnc....
It is a show stopper to the friends, particularly when they see the vlc of the same movie on the tv and the zaurus...
What about the ATI RF remote control, a bit pricy, but it's a very effective mouse too... you can use the directional pad as a joystick like tool to guide your cursor, seems much more natural for a HTPC to me...
It doesn't have Bluetooth (it uses IR instead), but this is the keyboard I use with my HTPC (MythTV):
Parex Wireless Multimedia Keyboard w/ Intellipoint Mouse
According to the website, they're sold out, but it might be available somewhere else. It works great (across the room for me, although my living room isn't that large), and it doesn't conflict with the Hauppauge IR receiver either (though it definitely will conflict with an irman, and maybe others, so be forewarned). It doesn't require direct line of sight, it will work on up to a 70 degree angle (if I remember the manufacturer's specs correctly). And, it was only $20 at the time.
Otherwise, I've heard that the Gyration products are great, but again, they're not Bluetooth, they're RF.
-- Joe
Why? My HT PC uses a NiceTracker ACK-573 keyboard. It's an infrared PS/2 keyboard. Works just fine (with one exception I'll get to momentarily), and has the added bonus that I can program my Universal Remote from it, and use the remote for most functions that don't require me to actually be entering text. Since I run MythTV, I rarely need to enter text, and it saves me having to doink with LIRC.
The one exception to working fine is that the thing eats batteries, even when it's not in use. The solution was pretty simple: run to Radio Shack, get a pushbutton switch, drill a hole in the case and install the switch on the battery terminal. Voila, on-off capability that saves the battery.
7 November 2006: The day Americans realized corruption and incompetence weren't addressing 11 September 2001
Very easy to use on the lap, knee or armrest. Now if only Logitech made one with a 12ft range rather than a 6ft range, life would be perfect. If it meant 2 AA batteries instead of 1 then so be it.
If there are any Logitech engineers here, please fix this!
All that we use to control our HTPC is a Logitech MX 700 wireless mouse. With the HTPC app that we use, SageTV, everything is accessible from a mouse-driven interface. We don't use that computer for email or games requiring a keyboard. My only complaint about the mouse is that its range is only about 10 feet.
The only thing that we can't do with the mouse is turn on the TV and the stereo. I am planning on programming one of the extra buttons on the mouse to do this. I'm planning on using it to launch a macro via the software program Girder that will send all of the appropriate IR commands out of the USB-UIRT IR blaster/receiver to turn on all the devices and switch their inputs accordingly. That should solve the only problem we have, which is explaining to babysitters how to use the TV.
Mods are in a bad mood. Probably shouldn't post until the morning, and they've had their coffee.
Keyboards and mice options are a no brainer and not hard to find/use/control. How are you gonna see the text on the TV is a better question unless you are sitting close or using some type of magnifier program....
Another benefit for me is that the PC hooked to the HT system is my main PC, so the keyboard moves easily between the desk and the couch; they trackball and a wireless mouse are both hooked up via USB and I just grab whatever one I want.
Admittedly, this setup takes quite a bit of configuration, and can be a pain in the ass if you don't know what you're doing (I didn't). But it makes for a VERY nice solution -- much better than having an ugly, bulky keyboard kicking around your sofa.
Five seconds search on Google - including time wading through "Bluetooth Trackball Ringtones" - came up with this:
p ?pe=BFBGFGAQ_+keyboard+with+trackball+and+mouse&ci d=880.
http://www.edirectory.co.uk/pf/pages/moreinfoa.as
Then there's always the FrogPad which is cool...
We're all gonna die!
What are you doing that can't just as easily be accomplished with an XBox and wireless controller? It would seem to me that trying to use a computer is the fallacy of your approach. Having built two computer systems to attach to my projector and having significant frustration with both of them, I wholeheartedly recommend an XBox for what you are attempting to accomplish.
children/little sister/brother make great remotes when i lose mine.... "hey while you're up..."
yea well your 10 stupid
Check this out.
While the manufacturer's page doesn't mention it at all, the keyboard and trackpad of this little powerhouse are detachable and use Bluethooth. I'm sure you need more than a laptop can provide as an HTPC, but maybe you can get one of the keyboards as a spare part.
I assume it has batteries that need to be charged, and I don't know how that would happen without the laptop to chrage it.
X 10 mouse remote
I have been building HTPC's since the year 2000. I have bought and tried dozens of different wireless keyboards and mice.
I finally settled on the X10 mouse remote, as the most usable, and with the most features.
It uses a combination IR and RF. The RF section is for PC control, with ps/2 or serial interface. And, for controlling the X10 house control modules that will switch on lights and appliances of your choice, including dimmer modules for lights. (I use one special module conected in parallel with the power button on the home theater PC to remotely power it on from the remote. Requires a rocking action. turn on , then imediately turn off). It has a button mouse with the left and right mouse buttons on the underside of the remote. It takes a bit to master, but once you are used to it, you will be jealously hooked. ATI's hand held remote is awkward to use because the mouse buttons are on top and you just never get used to them.
The IR section of the mouse remote, controls your other A/V equipment (learnable) TV, Cable Box, Sat, VCR plus an aux that is assignable.
The only thing this mouse won't do easily, is enter text. Any cheap wireless keyboard can be kept in easy reach for that.
Also, there is software for Linux available on the net for it. But I haven't used it yet.
Get the Max10 software for windows, if you are using anything newer than win98se.
Note of caution: As a matter of full disclosure. I have had to replace the micro switch for the left mouse button on a number of these remotes. The ones I have purchased recently, haven't had this problem. Perhaps X10 put better quality switches in the newer ones.
I don't have the wireless option, but I am using my notebook right now on the couch, with a Microsoft IntelliMouse Explorer 3.0 USB right on the surface of the couch set next to me. It is so much better to use than even the best ball mouse I had previously with one of those 3M mouse pads that were so much better than normal pads. I know that Microsoft also have a Bluetooth optical mouse, so I'd bet that a Bluetooth keyboard with such a mouse would be the best option.
Just give up on the mouse/touchpad idea and go with an integrated trackball. I just love trackballs. After destroying my right shoulder in a work injury, I can no longer use a mouse - causes my shoulder to swell and ache like a mofo. I fell in love with trackballs.
a google search for:
keyboard "integrated trackball" bluetooth
returned about a bazillion hits.
I use my Nokia 3650 to control my sony car stereo , my G4 tower at work, and as soon as I find a suitable app - my home, fedora core 1, computer (someone point me in the right direction?). Hopefully, eventually I will write an application to control the temperature of my toaster.
9/11 Eyewitnesses to Explosive WTC Demolition 1 of 2
For mouse movements, the ATI Remote Wonder (I or II) would be useful. They go for around $50 individually, or come bundled with most of the awesome All in Wonder products. For simple pointing and clicking, this seems like the ideal solution. Figuring out the keyboard will be more difficult though...
I don't know about any of you, but the last thing I'd want as a remote for my home theater is a friggin keyboard.
Get him a PDA with bluetooth. There should be some software that'll control all that needs controlling. And if he really needs a keyboard then he can use the on screen keyboard, or just use graffiti or whatever that particular PDA has.
-kidlinux.
According to this article, Think Outside will have a Bluetooth Stowaway keyboard on the market this month (May, 2004). There's also this fascinating keyboard from a South Korean company, listed as "coming soon." If you want something smaller, check out the FrogPad, specifically the BlueFrog model (available for pre-order). It's one fifth the size of a normal keyboard but emulates all normal PC/Mac keyboard functions. This device looks absolutely ideal for a home theater controller.
If you can wait, oh, a few years, you might have other options.
Link here. I don't think you would actually want to buy it from there though, apparently they farked with its hardware themselves, and I am not sure exactly why. Finding a place to actually buy it from is left as an exercise to the reader.
I used to use one of these a few years ago. It is infrared, but that doesn't really matter that much, it would go about 30 feet, and had a wide angle. The "mouse" is some weird joystick thing that looks more like a plastic nipple than anything, and takes some getting used to. It is layed out just as a laptop keyboard though, and I don't like the smaller layout, so I eventually went back to my ever-reliable IBM Model M keyboard, which is almost 20 years old now, and still capable of killing a man with a single blow.
Best Slashdot comment ever
I bought a Logitech bluetooth keyboard and mouse, and while they work great 15 feet away on my couch, they are simply too big and bulky to be practical. They are basically gathering dust. I now control everything on my HTPC via the wonderful MX-500 remote. I originally intended to play some games on my HTPC+HDTV but it's just too hard to play decently on a couch with a keyboard on your lap. Nowadays I mainly use the box for mp3's, video (TV episodes and the like), and emulators using Xbox controllers. When I bust out the emulators I tend to just control the box using VNC from a laptop rather than get out the keyboard and mouse.
So bottom line, think long and hard about whether or not you'll really use it. A good bluetooth setup isn't cheap so be sure it's worth it.
I also use Girder and an ATI Remote Wonder for my HTPC setup. The ATI remote came bundled with a Radeon 7500 All In Wonder and they work flawlessly together. The MyHTPC software also works wonders. There is an ATI Remote Wonder plugin available for MyHTPC too.
As for the keyboard and mouse, I use a Logitech cordless mouse and keyboard which does the job nicely. I keep the mouse on the coffee table and the keyboard in one of the drawers. The only tricky part is keeping the RF receiver on the computer far enough away from the components in your home theater as the cord on the unit is not very long.
I also have a 4 port USB hub running to a spot under the couch that allows me to quickly connect or disconnect things like USB Thumb Drives or USB Gamepads. I use the gamepads for many of the games on the system like GTA Vice City and MAME. Specifically I like the Gravis Gamepad Pro (BB $15, Nice mapping software), the Nyko AirFlo PC (BB $20, Dual Analog sticks, Air Flow technology), and if you can find it the GF USB Control Pad (BB $10, Dual Analog sticks). All of the gamepads work well with Girder and the games I use them for. Sometimes it is nice to have 3 or 4 different gamepads for N64 Emulators because it is easier to know which gamepad you are configuring. Before I had 4 Gravis Gamepad Pro's which was a pain because I had to label them 1 - 4 but windows would not allow me to change their names.
Of course VNC is a must but aside from that if you get your bindings tight in girder you can do almost anything with MyHTPC and a good remote.
Im dreaming ofa big bndwdth, That can resist the
heres what i would do..
1: get the fold up stowawy bluetooth keyboard from Think Outside its slick how small this thing folds up.
2: i assume the components you use will have modern remote controls, you could program the ati remote wonder keys into the components remote for mouse movement selecting etc...
this will cut down on extra remotes laying around, and the keyboard folds up nicely for when its not in use.
the site doesnt list bluetooth as a feature but i have read many places the wireless keyboard has it, and it is perfectly useable on a pc.
Unless you really have a need for a keyboard (browsing can be really ugly unless you're going HiDef), you should check out lirc.org and just get an IR receiver and use a remote control.
Got the same keyboard myself. btw, it is an Acer not a LiteOn as your subject line says. Runs forever on a pair of AAA batteries.
Consumer electronics uses IR for a reason, it works and it is cheap. Screw BlueTooth until the price drops and even then it's intended range of only a couple of feet makes it unsuitable for a HTPC installation.
Democrat delenda est
IR Remote == InfraRed Remote.
dumbass
IR is a common abbreviation for "infrared".
Way to flame someone and expose yourself as an idiot.
Just curious if you've thought about running a Tablet PC? They're small, lightweight, can dock (for charging, USB devices, and keyboard). You also have an optional on-screen keyboard for the rare times you'll need it. Built-in 802.11, full Windows XP, speedy enough to play recent games. Might be a lot more useful than just a wireless keyboard. Especially if you can trick it out with some custom application that controls the whole entertainment system.
-David
Howdy! I do reviews for Design Technica and had a similar issue when setting up my htpc. I settled on two separate methods.
For most regular use, i have a Logitech DiNovo keyboard and mouse (I know, I read your post, not in the air mouse) and it ahs BY FAR the best range of any wireless option I tried (Logitech MX, Logitech regular, MS wireless, MS BT, Gyration, and a couple other no namers). On top of it, I don't need to put it away, sicne it practically looks like a work of art instead of a dorky keyboard. Also, the programmable keypad makes for a slightly bulky but funky remote.
For more HT based stuff, I use a Remote Wonder that came wiht my Radeon 9800 AIW Pro. Good range and all, but mousing with it is horribly impractical for anything more than a quick click every few minutes.
You can try the Gyration mouse, which I thought gave good distance (but the keyboards absolutely suck - bad enough that I returned it one week later and ate the restocking fee), but I found it semi awkward and completely useless for games.
I have this all setup about 12 ft from the TV. I was worried about interference (Wifi AP, cordless phones, 2 wireless console controllers, 2 wireless PC controllers in a multiunit building), but so far, everything is great.
I have one of these and am very happy with it. I don't use the mouse much but it works fine. Its small enough to sit reasonably unobtrusively in my living room (with the IR repeated via Xantech IR repeaters down to where the equipment is racked).
Only issue I've had is it sends lengthy IR codes when you use the mouse that were crashing an IRTrans infrared decoder/receiver -- the guy that makes them has a fix in the works though.
I saw these at Comdex a couple of years ago (from a taiwanese company), then recently set up a MythTV box and found a guy in the UK selling them on ebay. I looked a bit in the US but lost patience trying to find a distributor and ended up ordering from the UK guy for about $80 including shipping.
i use a wireless microsoft natural keyboard and an ati all in wonder remote.
the ati is as good of a mouse as i need, and i rarely have to use the keyboard but when i do, it is handy.
i dont see how bluetooth is needed, any wireless kb should work as long as it is comfy for you to use.
another option for the mouse is a gyration (i think that is how it is spelled). they are pretty slick, let you wave your hand through the air to move the mouse. i would get the ati remote as well though, then you have a nice remote to control the playback functionality and a basic mouse, and the gyration for any advanced stuff you want to do.
I'm using an Acer wireless IR keyboard that I bought for $12.50 here, but now I see the price is only $9.00 (!). I use this with my HTPC (MythTV), and it works perfectly. It has a built-in mouse - it's a little tricky to use at first, but it works fine. The keyboard is nice and compact (350mm wide), essentially the size of a regular keyboard minus the number pad. And the package even came with two Duracell AA batteries for the keyboard.
:-)
I think these keyboards have been sitting around for a while - mine had a "works with Windows 95" sticker on the box.
Not Bluetooth per se, but it comes with a USB RF adapter: manufacturer's web site for the VersaPoint RF Wireless Keyboard. Another option: the IBM Wireless Navigator Pro (also non-Bluetooth RF), made by Micro Innovations.
IBM makes (made?) a keyboard that should do almost what you want. It's an IR keyboard with a mouse nub in the corner of the keyboard. I can't for the life of me find what it's called, but EarthLCD (earthlcd.com) ships one with their TC-10. Try http://store.earthlcd.com/s.nl/c.318770/sc.7/categ ory.9/it.A/id.717/.f, or search for "TC-10" on their site and check the subpages.
Nintendo Powerglove. Yes, it does work under linux (link)
...is anyone surprised?
there's a program called maxivista that allows you to have one computer act as a secondary display for another computer, although that may leave you using the HTPC as an extended display for the laptop... Hmm, Never used it but I saw it demoed on TechTV
I have a HTPC that I built myself, with no need of a keyboard at all.
For control it has 3 things:
Remote control (Sat setting on my universal remote, since I don't have satilite.) I used IRassistant for the software to control it, and IRA for a receiver (forums about it here: http://www.girder.nl/phpBB2/viewforum.php?f=9 the server for it, home-electro.com seems to be down).
Mouse: I got an RF mouse from Jumbo Video for $15CAD, and it works great. I have a solid, non flexible mousepad I use for it.
Joystick: an old playstation joystick using the parallel port, wired onto a 30 foot network cable. I may eventually use an xbox controller (which is regular USB with a special connector, easy enough to do). Great for the emulators I have on it.
I use myHTPC for an interface for it, which works great. I also have UltraVNC installed on it so I can log in from my desktop if I have to change any settings, since reading text on a TV sucks.
A Keyless/mouse-less keyboard from IDG
There's another company that does this same thing, but the keyboard is bigger. A friend of mine swears it's the coolest thing, but that's the closest thing ot a review I can give you
.
-shpoffo
Wow, you aren't me. Go die.
-Meeper
...bluetooth IS RF! Hello!
The design of the room is not... conducive to either RF or IR. The Bluetooth keyboard and mouse I've been using for setup has worked quite well, so thats the setup I'd rather. Thanks anyway.
Get a Model M Spacesaver and attach a PS/2-to-wireless adapter. You could probably fit it inside the keyboard housing. If you could get PCKeyboard.com to make a custom wireless version of a Model M Spacesaver with an integrated trackpoint, all the better.
THE NERD IS THE COMPUTER.
is this: rf keyboard. (usb) I've been using it for about two years with my htpc...and have yet to have a problem (or replace the batteries!) Granted, I use the computer only on weekends for the most part, but the keyboard has yet to let me down. Advantages? Mouse is built-in, and buttons are located on both sides (index finger) of board, and keyboard is similar to laptop. Disadvantage: cursor does not move as fast as i would like...current resolution is 1280x720, so it takes a while to meander across the screen.
I've used one for a couple years now. I found it open box at CompUSA one day and tried it out. I promptly replaced my Logitech setup with it. It is a single unit with a pointing stick in the top right corner and, the best part for me, is it's RF instead of IR. I know a lot of people here say IR is fine, but I NEVER have line of sight to my HTPC from my couch because it is around the corner from me. This keyboard has been the best $20 I've ever spent on a PC. You can find them on the web at multiple places for under $40 new. Here's a link to the mfg site. IBM Keyboards
Not bluetooth enabled, but an excellent mouse/keyboard solution:
FingerWorks
Do Google search for "SK-7551". First hit is the right choice. It is a no name chinese product, but I am quite happy with it.
It is actually an infrared keyboard set, with standalone PS2 key/PS2 mouse set-top infra receiver. PS2 mouse on the keyboard is actually a little joystick on the right side and it has plenty of multimedia/internet buttons on the top. Perfectly fits multimedia applications. And finger joystick mouse is usable without any desk, even in bed.
I got suddenly a second hand piece with keys localised to my native language for about 5$. A fantastic peripheral for linux flashed iPaq for me.
There you are, staring at me again.
I have a Philips DVX8000 home theater PC which includes a remote control and a keyboard. Both are infra-red. The keyboard includes an integrated mouse, kind of like a joystick on the upper right which you can operate with your thumb.
Things work reasonably well except for the fact that the keyboard is infrared which causes problems trying to use it in your lap.
I think these keyboards are the same as those used in the earlier web TV boxes.
The keyboard is limited, i.e. no numeric pad, to keep it small and light.
Bluetooth would be a much better solution than the infra-red.
This post is encrypted twice with ROT-13. Documenting or attempting to crack this encryption is illegal.
I am not convinced that adding a full size or even a compact keyboard to a home theater system is a great idea
Depending on your funds, it may be much smarter to investigate the use of a wireless pocket PC or similar device used in conjunction with automation software like girder to control your system. The upshot of this is that you can display information about the current media elements on the your control device. A truly smart remote control and with 802.11 the range would exceed your typical TV to sofa distance as well.
Jon - TheSpork
Most manuals for devices using NiMH and Lithium Ion say the batteries last longer if you keep them charged up (topped off). Otherwise, the deep charge/discharge cycles put a lot of wear on the batteries.
Just for clarity's sake, the "best" way to keep NiMH batteries alive is to keep using them. Charge them up, let them sit, use them a bit, then re-charge after a month or so. If you leave a NiMH battery totally drained, you will hurt the battery... and NiMH batteries drain themselves over time. However, if you leave it charging, you will kill the battery. There is just no good fire and forget storage solution. If you go on an extended vacation, consider giving your lighting equipment to a friend to babysit.
Don't expect any rechargable battery system to last for more than a year or two. Very few stand up to regular use. Think about replacement battery availability carefully when buying new equipment.
The ______ Agenda
My friend has a wireless keyboard/mouse that he purchased years ago. Probably the best set up I've used. The keyboard is about the size of a laptop's, with standard sized keys. It has a small joystick on top right, like the ones found on PS2 and Xbox controllers, as a mouse. Unfortunately the unit is IR with a rather short range (maybe 15 feet), and I don't know the manufacturer.
I don't know why I'm bothering to post this, as anonymous posts are almost always ignored these days, but here goes.
I built a HTPC a few months ago, and found the DSI KM-880.
It's quite perfect. It's not bluetooth, but it is RF based (so it don't have to point the keyboard at the receiver) and the receiver has an extendable antenna. So, this thing has quite a range and a built in track ball.
Also, the whole thing is pretty small. The keyboard/trackball runs on two AAAs, but I haven't had to replace the batteries yet.
I'd say it has a reliable 20 foot range, in my experience.
It uses Windows drivers, so I doubt it'd work under Linux. However, all of the emulators I run are on Windows, so it's all good.
If anyone finds a site that has these in stock could you please post a link? I have been wanting to get one (or something like it) for about a year and the times that I have tried searching over this period I have not been able to find anything. I'm starting to suspect that the manufacturer went out of business.
and neither are you...
It's only meant for the console, but maybe there's some way to get it for a HTPC.
Salutaciones, JCAB
I found that for what I do from the couch (watch TV, videos, DVD's, listen to music) I never used the keyboard after a few days of playing around. Even on a 21" monitor the fonts are too small to read from far away, especially at higher screen resolutions.
What I DO use all the time is the RF remote that was bundled with my ATI All-In-Wonder Radeon 8500DV video card. (Not the latest model but the remote device is similar with newer models). This little gem has great range, works as a wireless mouse from my couch, has buttons to start & control the TV/DVD app's, control music playback from MP3's or CD's and programmable buttons for just about anything else.
For stuff that requires a keyboard, such as web surfing, I prefer to put a chair in front of the screen and use a conventional keyboard. Unlike watching movies and listening to music, you will find that viewing web pages is not good from 10 feet away.
Listen man, if you want todosomething really serious, a place like Slashdot is the last place to look for advice you can count on. This place is like reading the WEekly World News. HOwever, it is entertaining.
"If you are a dreamer, a wisher, a liar, A hope-er, a pray-er, a magic bean buyer
I'm not me?
-Meeper
Seems to me that an IR remote solution is your best option. If more is desired I seem to like the Gyration keyboard and mouse comb set. It is a USB RF receiver for bother keyboard and mouse and the keyboard is quite small (like a laptop keyboard) nice for a 50 foot or less situation. The mouse also can be operated in air and has nice sensitive accelerometers. All said an IR remote and this setup is all I use for home theater. All this can be had for less than $120 so id say it is a bargain. They make a more powerful model too if more distance is desired (150' is possible I think).
;)
blue tooth is nice but RF is better if you need the range
I use one of these . The intellect AirKey is a small form-factor keyboard with built-in mouse that functions over infra-red. Infra-red really is a fine compromise, because I need to be in IR range to use the TV remote anyway!
The mouse-pad thingy is quite neat, it's small and can be driven from your sofa. It's a bit tricky to get used to at first, but it's really worth it once you get used to it.
My only advice is don't install the system with it, use a proper keyboard and mouse. This thing is fine as a PC remote control, but you probably don't want to set one up with it!
If the above still hasn't sold you, it's a very cheap option and most importantly it's black!
perl -e 'print "Just another Perl newbie\n";'
I and many of my frieneds have set up the same thing and the key is to give up bluetooth.
There are tons of cheap InfraRed keyboards with pointing functionality on the market. You can get them used for like 20 bucks.
Besides, bluetooth barely has the range to do these things. IR has been doing this for a long time.
After that it's a matter of output and interface. Mplayer and VLC as client aps with smb, afp, nfs or any other file protocol work fine.
Those parts are easy. The hard part is supporting the hardware. If you're driving a video projector (my friends drive a projector with a old p-something) you need an r2-d2 sized UPS to keep it from destroying itself during a power failure. You also need to support the incoming video network and maintain availablity for all the systems responsible for recieving input. Basically you're building a TV station with a very small audience.
So input, read above for a solution. And make for damn sure everything is journaled and powered by an UPS.
However, I couldn't find any in my part of the world easily, and being impatient, I bought a Labtec RF mouse/keyboard combo. It's not the best setup by far unfortunately (the mouse seems to eat batteries at the rate of 2 AA's per month, even when unsed).
Since I don't plan on web browsing using the HTPC, I'm currently getting familiar with Girder (for Windows only) to control the HTPC via a remote. I picked up a One For All universal remote (2nd hand, dirt cheap) which seems to have just the right amount & type of buttons to control a HTPC.
Stuck down a hole! In the middle of the night! With an owl!
For the remote solution you need something with a mouse like device in it. This is very important, although you can go without it I find it annoying to have to switch to a wireless mouse if I want to do many things. Also since the remote will have a mouse, and the keyboard will have a mouse, and there will likely still be a mouse then I would advise getting multiple pointers on the screen too. I find it annoying when im using my wired mouse and then accidentally bump the the wireless one and send my pointer off from where I needed it(sorry can't use a wireless mouse for games, issues with batteries dying). Imagine three mice controlling one pointer, now imagine three people playing with the mice.
Personally I think it is very important to have a remote, its already intergrated somehow into our society to the point where you can't have TV or radio without it. Now if these device can't be without it then why should the computer, especially one geared for multimedia.
I find that, since I sit on the right-hand side of the couch which has a decently wide-yet-soft-and-rounded arm, a nice thick and stiff hardbound book (I use the "Black And Decker Complete Guide to Home Repair") with a simple cheap soft mousepad works great with my Logitech wireless optical mouse.
Those with some sort of RSI may need to adjust, but it doesn't bother me at all.
rm
Sci-Fi Storm
This is a nice (Swedish site) keyboard without the numeric part and has a trackball made for your right thumb. Mainly designed to hold in your hands. It's black and wireless and probably works like a charm on my freevo system. Pretty juicy pricetag, around $100.
Girls are strange. They don't come with a man page.
-- Michael Mattsson
Pros: It's SO DAMN COOL
Cons: the 900mhz phone screws up my wireless. I solved this by getting rid of my land line and going all cellular,
I also use PalmVNC at work to manage a large variety of machine, although only mac, windows and RH9 (damn I'm gonna miss you RH9). It's quite convenient to haev my palm with me and be able to read logs while in the bathroom. Ok, I know that's a bad pun, but I really DO read the log files from my servers on PalmVNC when I'm in the crapper. And it's not as bad as going to the bathroom to play solitaire with your Palm.
Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm
I have installed several Mac Based Home Theater Computers for clients. Typically I just use a PowerBook G4 as the main interface and maybe a a Roku Media Player.
Usually I just use a gyration mouse and keyboard - they make these in Bluetooth now.
In the past I have used one of the Grandtec MiniVic Flexible Keyboards it coutour fits really nicely to most arms on leather chairs and kind of looks like a built in.
Take into account there are several USB 1.1 / 2.0 Hubs that are wireless.
I also get my clients to use their T616 bluetooth phones and a program called Romeo (there's another called Salling Clicker) - it allows a VERY CLEAN interface for naigation (use as a mouse) and control of MANY apps visually. It's like having a mouse that has an LCD on it.
Yell & scream & rant & rave... it's no use... you need a shaaaave ~ Bugs Bunny
My $0.02 is to buy the Logitech DiNovo. I understand the desire for an integrated Mouse, but I have yet to find one that works well. I run a demo environment similar to what it sounds like you are building, and have have tried A BUNCH of wireless keyboards/mouses. I have had nothing but problems until I purchased the DiNovo. All of the IR and all the other RF solutions would drop keys on the keyboard, or more annoyingly, the mouse would be uncontrollable. I have a whole drawer of wireless KB/Mice that were crap! Another note, if you have compact florescent lights in the room (kind of look like the florescent tubes all wound up to look kind of light an incandescent bulb) these can really wreak havoc on any IR solutions. Good luck.
I use the Logitech cordless keyboard (it seems to have the smallest footprint), and a standard Microsoft optical cordless mouse. The optical cordless mouse works great on the arm of the couch.
And, one you get to know your way around the software you're using, you usually don't need the mouse anyway.
Does the cool sounding name enlarge your organ? It sure isn't any more useful for wireless keyboards than the proprietary RF or IR versions that came before the bluetooth circlejerk.
Why not get a Xbox with a modchip, install XBMC no need for anything as the xbox remote does the rest. You can then install any number of great emulators, or even play an xbox game (???) Hook it up to a Samba share to access your media library!!
However, Girder was what pushed me over the edge and off of Windows for good. I have a remote control and an irMan. I wanted the power button on the remote to act as a toggle (ie: if monitor is off, turn it on, and vice versa). After fighting with it for over a month, I gave up. I switched to Linux for all my home stuff, and haven't looked back. And the only thing I miss is those awesome games that Windows has. I guess I should be thanking the folks who wrote Girder. Oh, and that was with whatever version of Girder was out in Dec, 2002.
GPL made simple: What was my stuff is now our stuff. If you improve our stuff, please keep it our stuff.
what gives? you don't need bluetooth for a simple keyboard for a media center. I've used the SK-7100 for a while now and it performs well enough.
Why do people insist on using hardware A over hardware B in their design requirments when A/B perform the same for the application they are wanting to use. I guess stamping "bluetooth!" on the front of the cardboard display makes it a better product....
http://www.superpen.com/
I use a Firefly remote control from Snapstream.com.
:->
It controls DVD playback, TV watching (I use BeyondTV) and more. Plus it's RF based.
I have this Lite-On inferrred keyboard I have had for like 8 years. it has a joystick mouse integratted in it that works ok. I have an inferred network in my house so I use it for controlling xmms and Kaffeine (video) from the living room. This is the most trusty piece of computer I have owned. Like I said I bought it like 8 years ago and I have used it with several computer systems I have set up. I guess they don't probably sell them any more, but if you ever see one at a garage sale I highly recommend it.
People say my sig is the best thing about me.
I am in the same situation. I also want a small keyboard with built-in mouse and running on Bluetooth
However, the market is "not there yet". At least not in EU and I know well, since I am in the scene, sort of.
Hello?? Fred?! Is this you?
With my HTPC, I found that most of the solutions out there didn't have the range I needed from the couch to the unit (about 20 feet), so I ended up getting a unit from Interlink Electronics called the Versapoint RF. Has a built-in thumbpad, and works up to 50 or so feet from the receiver (USB with a nice long cord to get it away from the rest of my noisy gear).
Found it for less than $100 at Frys.
http://www.interlinkelectronics.com
http://www.allenorgan.com/www/products/r211/r211.a sp
How about a 3D Mouse
This along with a wireless keyboard should work pretty well.
I only mod up parents of "mod parent up" posts...
The separate mouse is OK. I spend my evenings on the couch, with the notebook in my lap and the (optical) mouse on the couch, just where my hand naturally comes to rest. It's much more comfortable than any track(ball|point|pad) or whatever.
Other than a real mouse, the only I found usable was a clip-on "Ballpoint" mouse sold a long time ago with Toshiba laptops. I don't think they exist anymore. And they didn't have a scroll wheel of course.
Go with a standard wireless optical mouse!
I actually found that it doesn't take that long to get used to driving an Apple mouse with your foot on the floor. The single button is easy to push with your big toe and you have access to the "right click" features with the control key.
Better than any monkey I have tried.
My friend has one of these so he can mouse around on his ridiculously large projection TV when his Xbox is in Linux.
It's quite easy to get used to the mouse in the air movements. The movement is smooth and natural.
And the best part is that you can put it down and use it like a normal mouse, too.
I can't speak for the overall quality of the product, but he's had his for a few years and it still works fine.
- It's not the Macs I hate. It's Digg users. -
Buy a Gravitron compact keyboard and gyro mouse combo - the mouse has a built in gyro with a button underneath the mouse switch back and forth, both are wireless and have been rated to go approx 30 feet from receiver - trust me you wont regret buying it even though every product has its cons the pros definitely out-weigh them in this case.
P.S. The mouse has excellent control when in "gyro" mode.
I call it the K-K-K-Keyboard!!!
Need Free Juniper/NetScreen Support? JuniperForum
Ruwido has brilliantly designed keyboards, remotes and mice for the wireless iving-room use
Their "Amadeus" RC is reported (by them) to have 70.000 RC's preprogrammed
Hello?? Fred?! Is this you?
It's not bluetooth, but you should try this:f combo.h tm
http://interlinkelec.com/products/retail/r
In addition to being very typable (is that a word?) , the keyboard has pointing built-in so you don't have to keep swapping to the remote like you do with the Gyration. The remote has programable buttons too. The 100' range is nice.
Standard Bluetooth has a range of 30 feet (10 meters) and the class 1 devices has a range of 100 meters. So I doubt you'll find yourself in a situation were BT is out of range but IR works. (Unless you have a really large room.)
Not sure how much more power a BT keyboard draws compared to IR though. IR certainly is cheaper though. But for products with $50+ prices I doubt it matters much. (Besides that they stamp Bluetooth on the box and charge double the amount. The actual components aren't that much more expensive.)
If your solution is truly going to be used as a dedicated HTPC, a keyboard is overkill for that application. Though I'm not advocating eliminating the keyboard from the equation entirely, there are many products that get the job done withou the awkwardness of a full-sized keybaord. You should probably look at the new PC Remotes that are coming out on the market. Such as this one from Streamzap, which also happens to have open source linux drivers available.
While IR isn't as easy to use as RF, the board is ment to sit on your lap, has finger indentions on the underside, and has a game pad style mouse pointer with left and right buttons.
i ndex.html
Check out the very last picture on my pc emulator game system: http://ibmgeek.shacknet.nu/projects/Nintendo_Box/
Made by Vigor, model FDC-3101.
It's not bluetooth, but it really is a Home Theater keyboard, and cheap! http://pwp.roltanet.com/egain/cordlesskm.htm. From the look of it I guessed the thing was IR but it actually is RF and the range of it is great. One tip: I've attached the controller 2 feet below my television, and the right side up! It really doesn't work as good otherwise.
This is the 411. GAMEBOARD The GameBoard Controller is designed for unrivaled performance in gaming, surfing the web or just catching up with your e-mails. As gaming consoles, PCs, and audio video entertainment are becoming more integrated; we have designed an input system, which combines the advantages of all the systems into one sleek stylish controller. With the left hand on the analog controller and the right hand on the mouse, you get unmatched control, comfort and edge winning performance. KEY FEATURES: *No table needed *Analog controlled movement *Chat online and play at the same time *Low friction mouse pad for better control *Flexible Connection for ease of use *Total Control for an ultimate gaming experience *Mouse aiming is unbeatable for all of your first person shooter needs *Compatibility for both the PC & PlayStation®2
WWW.FANATEC.COM GAMEBOARD The GameBoard Controller is designed for unrivaled performance in gaming, surfing the web or just catching up with your e-mails. As gaming consoles, PCs, and audio video entertainment are becoming more integrated; we have designed an input system, which combines the advantages of all the systems into one sleek stylish controller. With the left hand on the analog controller and the right hand on the mouse, you get unmatched control, comfort and edge winning performance. KEY FEATURES: *No table needed *Analog controlled movement *Chat online and play at the same time *Low friction mouse pad for better control *Flexible Connection for ease of use *Total Control for an ultimate gaming experience *Mouse aiming is unbeatable for all of your first person shoot needs *Compatibility for both the PC & PlayStation(r)2 Compatibility PC The GameBoard Controller is compatible to any game or software which supports mouse, keyboard and / or a Direct X compatible joystick (2-axis, 6 buttons) System requirements: Free USB port, OS: Windows(r) 98 SE, Windows(r) ME, Windows(r) 2000 Windows(r) XP NO DRIVERS REQUIRED! PlayStation(r)2 In general, the GameBoard Controller is compatible to a standard 2-button USB mouse with scroll wheel and a USB keyboard. Some games (e.g. SOCOM Navy Seals) require a network adapter to detect the GameBoard Controller
I've tried every wireless solution out there. They all perform poorly. THeir distance is inadequate, they are too slow, miss keystrokes or mouse movements, have to be aimed properly or are too small. The solution I like is to have a front mounted USB port and to use a USB extender cable (they exist) and run USB to the keyboard. Several keyboards have USB ports on them so that you can hook up real mice or joysticks of any type. The keyboard rests on your lap and with a real mouse against the couch you have an environment that is flawless.
I have a wireless KB/Mouse/Joystick combo made by Intel. They are long since out of production but you can find them on Ebay. I have yet to find the range of this thing (works from all rooms in my Apt.) Although the game pad looks silly it works quite well and you can have more than 1. It does eat up the batteries.
Another interesting gadget is the Frogpad (http://www.frogpad.com/) which is a 20 key bluetooth pad. I've never tried it though.