I tried this question on Stack Overflow, but I was pointed here, so here goes:

For a new project for myself, I am looking for a way to be able to (for example) open a pop-up window on my laptop, by pressing a button on an external device (to be build by myself, or at least bought) connected with USB.

Basically I would be looking at something like a Arduino or Raspberry (IF I am looking in the right direction) with buttons on it, and as soon as I hit a button on the external box with physical buttons, a command activates on my laptop and for example opens a popup window in which I can input tekst.

Does anyone know: 1) if it is possible to do this at all. 2) What equipment is needed for the external box, what programming is needed. I preffer .net (dot net) but maybe it can only be done with software from the external box.

If anyone can point me in the right direction, like make/model of the external box or websites I would be very happy.

I have knowledge of Visual Studio/.net but I am willing to learn other languages if .net is not an option for this project.

Thanks in advance

Scott

PS: If anyone knows of some better tags, or at least knows what I mean and needs me to edit the question, please do tell me... I am new on Stack Overflow/Superuser.