Just an observation but the Beomaster 5 unlike the beomedia 1 does not have any keyboard or mouse PS/2 ports.

this might make web surfing harder rather than just viewing pages from favorites.

also

how will we set up the windows ethernet settings without a keyboard to set static IP address etc?

You can connect an usb keyboard/mouse. I have an Amitech mini keyboard connected. Works with IR. It also controls my BV7-40 (main functions).

Stefan 

oh right i did wonder as the USB sockets in the guide book for BM5 says they are for service only

I use this and it works perfect and will do with BM5 to

 

Does embedded windows work in the same way as normal desktop windows? Perhaps it will be set up like a router via a network browser?

it does indeed its just got half the operating system ripped out so its minimal.

you woudl still need a keyboard and mouse for setting up IP address, Subnet masks and defualt gatways as not everyone used DHCP.

 

I do not understand how you use an IR keyboard? Does Beomaster 5 have an IR eye? I do not think so. Also there is no pic? Could you please describe how to use a keyboard

The Amitech keyboard has an IR to USB converter. Connect it to the USB socket of BM1 and it will work.

Stefan

thanks, does it work with BM5 as well?

Where can I buy it? I am from Germany

Yes it will work on BM5.
You can bey it here http://www.amitech.dk/includes/default.asp?reload=http://www.amitech.dk/includes/visProdukt.asp?ProduktId=31

Dont buy Amitech

I had it and it worked not as good as I had expected

Buy this instead:

http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm/keyboards/keyboard/devices/3848&cl=us,en