I've seen a few discussions on how to extend your usb cable range.
Well here is a video on just such a cable which combines optical technology and USB for a cable at 30m long.
Not as cheap as the active cables but it's 3 times longer.
Just might be long enough to get to the obsy in the back yard.
Add a multi point hub and you're on your way.
Power of your desktop connected to your remote set up.
Compared to a remote pc, who knows, but it certainly opens more doors in this area.