PC DVD remote control

[pjn]

Hi,

This is a bit "techy", but it is DVD hardware so here goes...

I want to be able to control my PC and DVD-ROM via remote control i.e. use a handset to turn the noise up/down, skip tracks, shut down the PC etc (perhaps using keyboard shortcuts programmed in).

I dont want to use an infra-red keyboard.

I see this being done one of two ways:

1. An all-in-one kit which has a infra-red adaptor (possibly via usb?), software and a supplied remote.

If such a thing exists, does anybody know where i can get it in the UK?

2. A 'self done' kit where you buy a seperate IR transmitter/receiver (connected to the IR header on the Motherboard), get some software from somewhere which will do the job of interpreting the signals and telling the PC and using a remote from some other device to send the signals (or use a palm pc with IR output and appropriate software).

Does anybody know where there is some software that would do this (i can get the other bits myself).

Hope this is clear - and i hope you can help! Any ideas?



Thanks for your time.

[Just]

Evations IRMAN (http://www.evation.com) is the gadget you need. It is 30 pounds and is essentially an IR receiver for your PC. It plugs into the SERIAL port and can be 'taught' to respond to any remote you have spare (or a One for all or a Pronto etc). There is a host of software to download from their site too including some good DVD controlling stuff that should do the job perfectly. I use one to control my MP3 PC running Winamp and it really is a great straightforward piece of kit.

[MartinC]

www.keene.co.uk & www.lektropacks.co.uk do similar things.

think keene has/ had one that comes with a Sony remote,
and software for the PC... sorry can't remember if it was serial or USB.

[DunkWho]

Originally posted by Just
Evations IRMAN (http://www.evation.com) is the gadget you need. It is 30 pounds and is essentially an IR receiver for your PC. It plugs into the SERIAL port and can be 'taught' to respond to any remote you have spare (or a One for all or a Pronto etc). There is a host of software to download from their site too including some good DVD controlling stuff that should do the job perfectly. I use one to control my MP3 PC running Winamp and it really is a great straightforward piece of kit.

If you're handy with a soldering iron then pop over to the UIR (http://www.geocities.com/SiliconValley/Sector/3863/uir/index.html) site on which the IRMAN is based (pretty sure the IRMAN was a commercial product based on the UIR rather than the other way around!). Suprisingly simple to look at, have no idea how hard it'd be to get hold of the componets.

Dunkwho

[pjn]

thanks for the help guys.

ive actually ordered an abit soundcard that comes with remote and adaptor - specifically designed for WinDVD, for about £35.