I didn`t put this in the guides forum because it`s not a complete guide, just a hint really. I have been using these little devices for years: http://www.mygizmos.net/frames/hardware/irreciever.html The original creator seems to have dissapeared, but everything you need to make on is on that web site. You can use stripboard if you don`t want to make a PC, it`s fairly simple. If a bunch of people want a programmed PIC, get together and email me and I`ll see what I can do. Once you have a UIR, get the Girder software from http://www.girder.nl . Go to Cutprice and get a "Tornado" remote control for £5.99. It can control 2 TVs, 2 VCRs, 2 Cable/sat boxes and 2 DVD or HiFi components. Program one of the AUX buttons to code 134 which will work great with the UIR. You may need to set a repeat delay in Girder for some commands. I use mine to watch DivX movies and DVDs, very handy. Check out Media Player Classic, I can post my Girder config if anyone needs it. MoJo
I make these and they work really well and fit in the Serial connector housing. I also make IrDA connectors! (Site to be updated soon) Meblin
Interesting... on the one hand, they are cheaper and don`t require a programmed PIC. Also, the software may be more fleixible for reading. The main thing I like about the UIR, and the reason I used it in my original in-car MP3 player ( http://amimpc.world3.net ) is because the uproc does all the work, and the computer just sits there until it gets an interrupt. Not much of a concern on a 2GHz machine perhaps, but in my car system I was running close to the wire... I guess I just love efficiency too MoJo
