I'm thinking of upgrading my xbox hard drive to use as a second pc, but what do I do about keyboard and mouse input? I haven't tried the linux install cause I have the original hard drive and I understand you need a linux partition to run it right? So do I need to make some mod to a usb keyboard to use it in the xbox controller port? Also, I assume the version of xbox linux will run all other linux apps such as office apps, etc? Thanks for any info/advice.

u need to buy usb adapter for your xbox. This will convert the xbox USB to a normal USB (ones u have on ur pc). u can order these for 13 bux from lik-sang. http://www.lik-sang.com/info.php?category=53&products_id=2154& or u can try to make one yourself.

Easiest way to make a USB cable:
http://users.skynet.be/bk231905/usb-cable/xbox.jpg

or Fitting a standard USB socket to an Xbox :
http://www.xbox-scene.com/articles/usb.php

You can even make extra usb ports without using your joypad ports:
http://www.xbox-scene.com/articles/usb-rear.php


Or If you're really up for a challange you can even make USB connectors on your xbox joypad:
http://www.i-hacked.com/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=34

:) Good luck!