OK, I'm trying to finish up my new HTPC build, need a wireless keyboard. I need something that has good range that can be controlled from 12 to 20 feet away. Primarily it will be used to control my front end application MediaPortal (just like MCE 2005), however, I will also use it for an occasional game or cruising the net.

I would like something that has a relative small footprint in size, but with good reaction/sensitivity. There is nothing more frustrating than when it won't keep up with your keystrokes or have slow mouse response.

So far I'm looking at the Ione Scorpius P20 which has very good reviews on Newegg and other websites. It is a 2.4ghz model with upto 10meters range. The only possible set back is that it has an incorporated joystick on the right, and mouse left/right buttons on the left side. I'm sure a person would get used to it though.

Any other suggestions or ideas would be appreciated...Randy

I use the Logitech® Cordless Desktop® LX 300. The device works quite reliably from 15 feet away. I've only had a few hiccups with connectivity between the keyboard and the pc, but it was not due to the distance, it was due to the computer freezing a bit and not recognizing the keyboard...

The installation was quite simple - you just hold a red button down on each device for a few seconds. Thereafter, the keyboard is plug and play. No need to reinstall on reload, restart, etc.

I love it - I use it in conjunction with a wireless mouse from Logitech as well...

Randy, I know you don't want to hear this, but...

The Microsoft keyboard that is specifically designed for MCE seems to be a pretty good product. If you have not yet settled your OS issue, you may want to add it to the "pro" list.

Resistance does seem futile, doesn't it?

I have the gyration cordless combo. It has a small keyboard and a really cool mouse (you can just wave it in the air OR use it on a surface). The range is pretty good; they claim 10m, but sometimes I do have trouble from 12 feet out. It could be because I've tucked the sensor away behind the case on the floor under a pile of spaghetti.

I have the Microsoft MCE keyboard and love it. It's only downside is the pointing device is not spectacular but good enough for what I use it for.