4. Input Devices

HP wireless RF keyboard

The HP m7580n comes with a wireless RF keyboard and mouse combo. Other than a few standard multimedia controls, the keyboard is more functional than flashy. Is has a slightly bulky feel that is reminiscent of older keyboard designs. The mouse is standard with a basic utilitarian three button / scroll wheel setup. The wireless performance seemed a little on the light side. HP claims that they have an "extended range up to 16 feet." The keyboard started to fail at about 9 feet away from the receiver and the mouse started to jitter after about 8 feet. I tried placing the receiver in different places, as far away from electronic devices as possible, but I received similar results. The range limitations would not normally affect an office computer, but for those who plan on taking full advantage of the Windows Media Center experience might find that they need a little more range. They don't call it a 10-foot interface for nothing!

HP wireless RF mouse

Fortunately, the keyboard and mouse limitations won't affect the infrared remote that is also included with the m7580n. The remote has an excellent range as long as it has line of sight with its IR receiver. I was able to control the Windows Media Center interface smoothly from 40 feet away, and I'm confident that I could have gone farther if I had been able to maintain line of sight. I like the HP Media Center remote. I have used it before and there's something about the design that appeals to me. It is not backlit, but the buttons that are used frequently are different textures and shapes which makes them easy to identify by touch. My only regret with the HP remote is that it does not have programmable keys that can be used to control a television. A few key programmable buttons, such as volume and TV power would round out the HP remote nicely.

The HP Media Center remote control