Re: Newbe question. Is it possible to control IR devices with a newer laptop?

[nobody@xxxxxxxxxxxx (Dave Houston)]

Probably not.

The IrDA IR in the laptop is intended for very short range communication
with other IrDA-capable devices. It uses a different wavelength (850nm) than
CIR (Consumer IR) which uses 940nm. IrDA is unmodulated while CIR uses
modulation (usually 32-40kHz).

That said, many of the UARTs used in the laptops are capable of CIR but you
need software that can talk to them directly.

There is one software application from a Japanese author that will work with
some laptops, usually with very limited range. I cannot recall a name but
Goolling "CIR laptop remote control software" might find something.

Rev <rev@xxxxxxxx> wrote:

>I am just curious. With just software and the coresponding remote
>codes for each device, can I use my laptop as a central remote? It is
>a new Toshiba A70.  I program in VB, Java and C so I thought it might
>be a good learning project to undertake if it is possible.
>
>Thanks
>
>Rev