Best way to control/ interface with computer

What is the best way to interface with the computer. My setup is that i have a lap top under the seat, it is linked to a desktop in the trunk.

Basically I want to be able to switch between playlists without having to pull out the laptop. I was thinking a cheap solution is to use a number pad. Will winamp allow me to switch playlists using a numberpad? is there a better way to control it so that i can jump between different playlists or directories?

winamp will allows you to switch playlists using a numeric keypad if you use blackwinds plugin.

I'm using a cheap 5 $ gamepad and MindTwist (www.MindTwist.com). When you use MindTwist with Instadisc (on the MindTwist page), you can change playlist w/ the gamepad buttons.