Anyone use an HTPC as their main/only computer?

[AstroManLuca]

I have exactly one PC and no reason to get a second. I also have two TVs, but I'm selling one and would prefer to stick to a single TV setup.

Here's the issue. I'm using my TV (32", 1080p) as my computer monitor. I'd like to set it up so it's a little more convenient to use as a TV when people are over, but at the same time I want it to be comfortable and easy to use by myself as well. The problem is I generally have to pick between setting it up like a computer (thus putting it too far away from the couch and at an awkward angle) and setting it up like a TV (which is fine except that I have to put my keyboard and mouse on an awkwardly low coffee table and sit on a couch that is always trying to make me lean back.

So do you use some sort of stand or "booster table" for the keyboard and mouse? Is there something you can put on your lap? Ideally I'd like to be able to play games as well, though I play a lot of games on my Xbox 360 instead.

EDIT: The computer itself is relatively small... it's in a Lian-Li aluminum case, compact for a standard (not micro) ATX. And I have a wireless keyboard and mouse.

 

[Modelworks]

Maybe something like this ?
http://www.lapdawg.com/laptop-...ries/laptop-table.html

 

[sdifox]

I use a board for the mouse and just stick that board below the keyboard

 

[The Boston Dangler]

Originally posted by: Modelworks
Maybe something like this ?
http://www.lapdawg.com/laptop-...ries/laptop-table.html

if it were wider, i'd buy that. i currently use the wireless kb and mouse on the couch or whatever. for games i bust out the wired kb and mouse and set up shop on the coffee table, sitting on the floor in front on the couch and looking like a tool.

 

[Tiamat]

Originally posted by: The Boston Dangler

Originally posted by: Modelworks
Maybe something like this ?
http://www.lapdawg.com/laptop-...ries/laptop-table.html

if it were wider, i'd buy that. i currently use the wireless kb and mouse on the couch or whatever. for games i bust out the wired kb and mouse and set up shop on the coffee table, sitting on the floor in front on the couch and looking like a tool.

How long can do you that for? My wrists kill me after 10 minutes of doing that!

 

[Pliablemoose]

I used the 2nd video out (I have a full size HTPC, with dual video out) and bought a 25' cable from Monoprice, hooked it up to a 22" LCD on the coffee table, with BT keyboard and mouse, and it works great.

 

[s44]

this?

 

[Tiamat]

Originally posted by: s44
this?

The only thing that has kept me from buying that is the ugly star wheel setup :/

 

[The Boston Dangler]

Originally posted by: Tiamat

Originally posted by: The Boston Dangler

Originally posted by: Modelworks
Maybe something like this ?
http://www.lapdawg.com/laptop-...ries/laptop-table.html

if it were wider, i'd buy that. i currently use the wireless kb and mouse on the couch or whatever. for games i bust out the wired kb and mouse and set up shop on the coffee table, sitting on the floor in front on the couch and looking like a tool.

How long can do you that for? My wrists kill me after 10 minutes of doing that!

the coffee table comes up to a comfortable level, so the arms are good. posture - not so good.

 

[heyheybooboo]

Unique U-base design Attractive walnut wood-grained laminate top Rolling Hospital OverBed Table

If you are handy with wood working a custom top (and maybe a 'lower shelf' over the casters) might work for the Wifey Seal of Approval - and be used as an endtable for the sofa (27.5" sounds about right)