I use the numeric keypad to enter searches, just like text messaging on your cell phone. 2,2,2=c; 5,5=K and so on.
The tivo does a dynamic search after each letter is entered, but Dish would probably get sued if they did that.
you don't haveto enter the entire title or word to search just 3-4 letters will get you a good start.
One thing I do like is that Dish remembers your searches, TiVo does not.