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Ultimate HTPC Keyboard/Mouse solution for the couch???

2675 Views 20 Replies 16 Participants Last post by  Dallas_Jose, 
J
I am currently buying up parts to build an HTPC. I have been looking everywhere for the ultimate keyboard/mouse setup for gaming from the couch, but have not found the best yet... I have been looking at all the HTPC forums expecting to find the answer... but no luck. This is what I am looking for:


1. Wireless but to 30'. This is a no-brainer. It has to be RF or Bluetooth. No IR crap (I want to use my keyboard no matter how I sit. I don't want to have to make sure its pointed exactly at the TV). Logitech's Fast RF, which is touted to be as fast as USB 1.1, seems to be the best solution.


2. Small keyboard. Dropping a fullsize keyboard in my lap just isn't gonna happen. Where's the mouse gonna go with a fullsize keyboard in the way?


And of course that has to be someway to bring it all together. Someplace for the keyboard and mouse to sit! I am not going to lean over the coffee table to do my gaming. I'm not going to use a trackball or the gyration gyroscope mouse.


By far, the BEST solution I have seen is Infinium Lab's Phantom Lapboard.

http://digital-lifestyles.info/copy_...m-lapboard.jpg


The keyboard hinges up from the flat surface and tilts to fit the position of your hand, revealing a full area underneath for the mouse surface. I played with this thing at E3 this year and it's an awesome solution.

Downsides:

1. Phantom only - This is a proprietary piece of equipment you can only get with the Phantom, that will probably only be compatible with the Phantom (which hasn't even been released yet and has been delayed until 2005)

2. As of playing with it at E3, the mouse was wired to the keyboard and the keyboard was wired to the Phantom Console that was by the TV. IE, not wireless...

3. Probably patented by Inifinium Labs.


That Lapboard is an awesome idea. If something like that was available I'd get it in a heartbeat.


Closest alternative: The LapForm Lapboard
http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B0...T.LZZZZZZZ.jpg


Hmmm... maybe. Kind of odd looking... and the mouse pad area isn't big enough for some serious FPS gaming...[/img]


This is what a few days of internet searching has come up with:

Keyboard:


Wireless Computing RF-220. 100' RF range but $200... ouch. I love the simple look and shape and size of it though.
http://www.wireless-computing.com/im...f220_askew.gif


Gyration Compact Keyboard. 30' RF range. Little expensive.
http://www.gyration.com/images/UltraGT-MBK.jpg


Interlink Versa Point. 100' RF Range. possibly... not sure I like the way its suppose to contour to your lap.
http://www.interlinkelec.com/images/...rfkeyboard.jpg


Mouse:


Most of Logitech or Microsoft's RF mice just don't work past 6' or so. Logitech has a Bluetooth mouse, but I hate the shape/feel of it.


Logitech Mediaplay. Brand new as of Oct 18. About 12' RF Range... possibly a good solution. Not sure about that 12' limitation though...
http://www.logitech.com/lang/images/0/4970.jpg


ThermalTake XWing Bluetooth mouse

Not sure I dig the shape or not.
http://www.tweaknews.net/reviews/bluex/img/x3.JPG


I am currently thinking about trying to build some sort of device similar to the Phantom Lapboard...


Well guys, there is my run down on my search for the best Keyboard/Mouse combo for HTPC couch use. If you have some experience with looking for the ultimate setup as I am, feel free to add some input. As soon as I figure out my best solution, I will share it with you.


Jakobud
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The best solution I've come up with is just use a USB keyboard and mouse and buy extension cables. Wireless just isn't responsive enough for gaming in my experience. I use a full sized keyboard in my lap and use the arm of the sofa as a mousepad.


I've tried Logitech wireless, but you cannot game with it. Cables are no big deal. I'm used to cables running out of my Xbox.
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Have you considered trying to make your own lapboard. Looking at the picture it seems to be pretty simple. Take two small planks of wood or even strong plastic and hinge them together with a very stiff hinge. You could even consider buying one of those lap desk things (I don't know what they are called, its bassically a pillow with a hard plastic surface on one side) and bolt a hinged surface to it. Maybe its a good idea or maybe its just this southern boy trying to "engineer" things out of crap instead of actually paying for it.
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Quote:
Originally posted by chris5977
The best solution I've come up with is just use a USB keyboard and mouse and buy extension cables. Wireless just isn't responsive enough for gaming in my experience. I use a full sized keyboard in my lap and use the arm of the sofa as a mousepad.


I've tried Logitech wireless, but you cannot game with it. Cables are no big deal. I'm used to cables running out of my Xbox.
I don't think you can generalize all their wireless solutions like that. They use all 3 technologies I believe in there different products. I don't notice any lag with my mx700, although its reach isn't the greatest. I've heard good things about there bluetooth stuff.
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I'm totally happy with my logitech wireless mx duo (not bluetooth). I don't know why people dislike playing with the keyboard on their lap, I've been doing it for 11 months now without any problems, playing everything from first person shooters to mmorpgs to strategy games. I place a pillow next to me (or use the sofa arm if seating is at a premium) and place a thin hardcover book that's just a bit bigger than my mouse pad on that, mouse pad goes on the book to provide a flat and stable mousing surface. This is all comfortable, leaning back with my arms resting naturally, the mouse arm even supported by the pillow :)


Wouldn't go any other way. As far as response problems, haven't had a whit, gaming from 9'-10' away from the tv. I plan on getting the laser version of the mouse eventually, though, and their (logitech's) new v2 wireless gamepad. Again, this includes online fps, battlefield 42 and V, UT2k4, etc.


I don't know why people say the non-BT stuff doesn't have range, I can use the media keys on the keyboard without issue from my bathroom across the apartment, about 25' or so, through walls. It's not an interference issue (unless it's direct interference with the base unit, I keep my base unit pretty isolated from closeby signals), because I have tons of electronics in my living room, gaming/pc stuff plus my musical recording gear and stereo, etc.
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Quote:
Originally posted by Komoto
I'm totally happy with my logitech wireless mx duo (not bluetooth). I don't know why people dislike playing with the keyboard on their lap, I've been doing it for 11 months now without any problems, playing everything from first person shooters to mmorpgs to strategy games. I place a pillow next to me (or use the sofa arm if seating is at a premium) and place a thin hardcover book that's just a bit bigger than my mouse pad on that, mouse pad goes on the book to provide a flat and stable mousing surface. This is all comfortable, leaning back with my arms resting naturally, the mouse arm even supported by the pillow :)


Wouldn't go any other way. As far as response problems, haven't had a whit, gaming from 9'-10' away from the tv. I plan on getting the laser version of the mouse eventually, though, and their (logitech's) new v2 wireless gamepad. Again, this includes online fps, battlefield 42 and V, UT2k4, etc.


I don't know why people say the non-BT stuff doesn't have range, I can use the media keys on the keyboard without issue from my bathroom across the apartment, about 25' or so, through walls. It's not an interference issue (unless it's direct interference with the base unit, I keep my base unit pretty isolated from closeby signals), because I have tons of electronics in my living room, gaming/pc stuff plus my musical recording gear and stereo, etc.
I also like the duo
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I'm actually playing Half-Life for the first time, and I'm using the Logitech Bluetooth Mouse/Keyboard. Excellent responsiveness. The only negative is battery consumption. My mouse needs a recharge every 4 hours of playing. Not sure if the game is worth the hassle, though.
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I've found that everything wireless is WAY too slow to be usable for gaming. At least, if you're playing against other machines in the house on a LAN, which is the only thing I do. Maybe the lag in playing against remote servers helps.


Having said that, I have an Interlink VersaPoint and it's the best wireless keyboard/mouse combo I've ever owned. The three products I tried before it are gathering dust in a closet somewhere (offhand I don't remember what they are). The range is great. I've used it over distances of about 50 feet with no problems at all.
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mobius
Quote:
Originally posted by squicken
I'm actually playing Half-Life for the first time, and I'm using the Logitech Bluetooth Mouse/Keyboard. Excellent responsiveness. The only negative is battery consumption. My mouse needs a recharge every 4 hours of playing. Not sure if the game is worth the hassle, though.


squicken,


I have the MX700 and the Logitech website recommended using a lighter colored mousing surface if your battery power runs down too quickly. Apparently, the sensor has to work harder to pick up the signal from a dark surface.


Just a thought.
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Great thread. I am in the same boat as you Jakobud. I have a Dell 400SC 2.8ghz that I need RAM, a Vid card, HDTV card, and wireless keyboard/mouse combo I need. I've heard some good responses on the Logitech Wireless mx duo and was about to pull the trigger on one for about $60 shipped. But depending on what others input here, I may change my mind. I will be about 13'-15' away from the PC.
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I will say that I tried the Microsoft Wireless Comfort Combo and i couldn't get more than 3' away, the Logitech MX Duo lets me get more like 10', I can't say about more than that because my room isn't any bigger than that
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I've tried alot of wireless keyboards(got a box full of them) and the logitech bluetooth while expensive is by far the best. I don't use a mouse pad the mouse works just fine from the arm of of the chair the keyboard is not too large response feels just like wired to me. additionally you have a blue tooth hub that syncs to my pda just fine.
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I'm a BIG fan of the Logitech DiNovo Bluetooth keyboard/mouse combo. Excellent responsiveness for gaming, great range, and cool looking to boot :)
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D
The Phantom cool, but the mousing surface still seems too small. I play FPS games almost exclusively, and you need plenty of room when things get moving.


I have the Logitech bluetooth setup. The keyboard is mounted with Velcro on an artist's sketch board - looks like a giant clipboard. Others have done the same with lap desks, etc.


Check out this thread -

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showt...hreadid=424866


And this photo -

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attac...635&fullpage=1


DE
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Quote:
Originally posted by mobius
squicken,


I have the MX700 and the Logitech website recommended using a lighter colored mousing surface if your battery power runs down too quickly. Apparently, the sensor has to work harder to pick up the signal from a dark surface.


Just a thought.
Thanks for the info. I'll try a different surface.
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Quote:
Originally posted by Dallas_Jose
I also like the duo
Yeah, just as responsive as a corded mouse and is more accurate then my old usb mouse.
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J
Quote:
Originally posted by dedwards

The Phantom cool, but the mousing surface still seems too small. I play FPS games almost exclusively, and you need plenty of room when things get moving.

I know what you are saying about needing plenty of room, I am the same way. But I did sit down and mess around with the Phantom at E3 in May and I in my opinion, the Phantom Lapboard is the BEST solution for gaming from the couch (besides the fact that it's wired).


I am currently looking into constructing something to use similar to the Phantom Lapboard. It might not be that difficult to come up with something good. Something that feels good, works well, and is easy to store when unused. I'll definately post more info here when I figure something out.


Jake
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This is a great thread. I've been looking at all of these as well, trying to make a decision. One thing that REALLY ticks me off: so many of these high-end mice are right-hand only. So hard to find a good 5-button wireless mouse that is not "contured" right out of my abulity to use it. Lame.
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Quote:
Originally posted by unpronounceable
This is a great thread. I've been looking at all of these as well, trying to make a decision. One thing that REALLY ticks me off: so many of these high-end mice are right-hand only. So hard to find a good 5-button wireless mouse that is not "contured" right out of my abulity to use it. Lame.
I'd take a look at the Logitech Mediaplay mouse. It is not geared from right or left handed. Considering that it has 12' RF range, I think I might get it.


So far, I have purchased the Gyration keyboard and "in-air" mouse. I'm not planning on using the mouse for any gaming. I recently got to feel and type with the keyboard at Fry's and I loved it. It's small, perfect size. The keys felt great. So I went with it. 30' RF range on the Gyration gear.


Like I said, I'm still working on figuring out the best mouse to use.


And I'm still trying to figure out how to bring it all together. I have an idea and once I 'construct' it, I will share with the group.
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Here's my suggestion if you don't like the limitations of wireless. Just get a usb extension cable and situate the wireless base station closer to you. Its worked for me in the past. My base station has a 5 foot cord and I added a 6 foot extension to it... nice and close like that.
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