If you're like me, your Media Center system has a few other uses than just running Media Center. I don't use it for much, and what I do use it for is related to media, but the things I do use it for require more than a remote control.
For myself, my Media Center sits at a desk with a monitor hooked to it. I currently use an Xbox 360 to power the main TV in my house. Eventually however, I'd like to move the Media PC to my living room. When I do, I'm going to need the same control I do now but from the comfort of my couch.
While I haven't purchased one yet, the best tool for this is going to be a wireless keyboard and mouse. To me, there are going to be a few requirements when I do look to buy one. One, range: It has to function properly to at least a 20ft, and built in mouse/trackball. I don't want to have to move a mouse around on my couch.
I decided to go out and do a search on a few keyboards that would fit the bill. No reviews here as I don't own any of these products yet, but I wanted to give you an idea of what you can find.
First up is the Logitech diNovo Mini. A handheld keyboard, depending on how much you need it, this might be perfect. Full function but small enough to sit on a side table, and I happen to like the fold over cover to keep dust off of the functional part.
This being a bluetooth device, Logitech claims a range of 30ft. And with an integrated touchpad, this device meets my requirements. The touchpad 
can be used both as your mouse control and to click through menus, which seems to me would make navigation quick and easy. This along with a backlit keyboard makes this a nice little addon to your Media Center PC. With an MSRP of $149.99, it's a little pricey but I'm sure worth it if you need control in a small form factor.
Next up is the nMediaPC 2.4Ghz Wireless Keyboard with Trackball and Remote Combo. nMediaPC has decided that if you're using a wireless keyboard and trackball, you probably need a remote too. And they could be right. Most people using MCE most likely already have a remote they love, but hey, for $79.99 at Newegg, it might be worth it. Considering that they've not only put a trackball on the keyboard, but in the middle of the 
remote as well. I find that kind of a novel idea and something that might be nice to see in some of the universal remote solutions that are out there.
Using wireless tech allows this keyboard and remote to operate at up to 30ft away (10 meters per the site). That seems a little far to me but I've already said that my next remote will be RF so I can control it from the next room or even in my kitchen. This would be perfect for that.
The last keyboard I found is the Vidabox Premium Wireless Keyboard with Laser Trackball. Ian Dixon of The Digital Lifestyle recently showed an unboxing of this device.
Going for $69.99, it features a laser trackball, of course, as well as a Media Center green button. This is is convenient and could allow this keyboard to be used as your regular remote if it's easier for you. Another feature, which I'm sure other keyboards offer at this point, but isn't listed on other sites is auto shut-off. This of course can prolong your battery life. There's nothing worse than dying batteries when you've just sat down to enjoy some couch computing.
I hope this will help you choose a keyboard for your media center system. This is a device that I'm soon going to need. For me, the Logitech diNovo seems like something I'd like to try. I like the small form factor and the fact that it's from Logitech. They have a proven track record and that means something to me. That said however, pick a keyboard that fits what you need and fits your budget. For under $100 you can have what I'm sure is a great wireless keyboard no matter which of these three you might choose.
Originally posted on Entertainment 2.0
