Controlling a Computer with Universal Infrared Receiver

The universal infrared receiver is a device that enables the control of a PC using any remote control of TV, VCR, CD, or Stereo.

The construction of the device is very simple wherein the minimal version uses 3 components only. Some of the components include quartz for the frequency stabilization of oscillator. Unfortunately, when UIR works with RC oscillator, it produces far more inaccuracy. So in normal environment, planning to use UIR with RC oscillator is not required. Since there is one PIC port inside, the 5V1 on RS232 TXD is also not needed especially as maximal current is limited with 100K Ohm.

When the device is not sending data to PC, the circuit needs 7mA that can be supplied by RS232 RTS. It will deplete RTS and reserve stored in C1 when sending data. This solution better exploits available current, more reliable, and has less parts although more expensive. Using 4-wire old mice cable to connect UIR to PC is the hidden gain.

Most people tend to put a DB9 connector on the PCB board wherein a female DB9 can be plugged directly in the PC and use the remote.

Rest of the project