IR computer interface

[johncoppedge]

Hi, new user here and I have a problem I\'ve been dealing with for as long as I\'ve owned a computer. I\'m a quadraphlegic with minimal use of my hands  and  no  way  to  use  a  remote  control  to control my  tv  or other equipment except from my computer. The software, which puts a remote control on the screen that you click the buttons as you would a handheld remote, I already have but finding an interface that connects to a comm port or usb seems to be a challenge. I bought one from Smarthome about 5or6 years ago but I couldn\'t  get it to work, but at least I know they make such a device. Does anyone have a suggestion or am I going in the wrong direction? Any help greatly appreciated. John Coppedge

[admin]

I do not know if it is the cheapest solution, but Comfort is able to do what you require
You would need the UCM05 to connect to the serial port or UCM/Ethernet to connect to your home network.
Comfort is able to send IR codes to your TV and other AV equipment. Most (but not all) IR codes can be learned from the remote using the UCM, or converted from Pronto files.

The free Wizcomfort has a simple (line based) interface showing the programmed home control menu which can control your equipment

There are a number of software interfaces to Comfort, like Everhome, Homeseer (see http://www.comfortforums.com/forum27/ )

[garym999]

Comfort can do IR control and if it is a few basic functions you are after might surfice. IR control can be tricky at the best of times so the used of dedicated IR control equipment is the way I would go.

Look at, Logitech Harmony, Nevo, Pronto and RTI all have touchpad solutions that might work.

For PC control look at these... http://www.globalcache.com/products/gc-models.html and this http://www.cinemaronline.com/index.html I have not used either of these. I think there was even some work done with MainLobby to support Comfort in the past