Is there any way to turn my laptop into a universal remote for my A/V equipment?

Question

Is there any way to turn my laptop into a universal remote for my A/V equipment?

Answer 1

You would need a way to import IR codes, have a good understanding of hex decimal as it pertains to IR commands, and grasp of RS-232 if your components will accept these commands via an RS-232 port, and have a user interface that would allow you to program macros and pages as you need them.  On the back side you'll need a way to emmit and distribute IR and RS-232 commands to your equipment.  I would think a touch screen also might be a handy interface to have as well.

The short answer?  It's certainly possible but it's a lot of stuff to pull together.  But it's not impossible!

Added:  If you're looking for of the shelf solutions such as Monster and Logitech, without jumping into the AMX/Crestron arena, you should check out RTI for their remotes.  They use touch screens rather than fixed icon displays on most of thier remotes and programming them while not easy, is one the most complete and comprehenisive programs I've seen.

Answer 2

Theater control thru a computer is not anything new. The idea to use a laptop is a good one.

However this is mostly the domain for custom home theater installers, as a unified systems for control does not exist. There are a few proprietary applications available to do this sort of thing. The cost can be relatively high. In addition to consulting with a custom installer I suggest that you look at both the Monster brand controller as well as the Logitech to get an idea of what is already out there. I do foresee home theater PC's becoming more prevalent, with many features, but for a low cost you just may be a little ahead of you time. Back when I still installed Home Theaters I put in PLC based controls for lighting, operation of screen window shades, etc... The cost of a install like that was several thousand dollars, but again as something becomes more common it does get cheaper for the masses.

Good Luck and e-mail me if you have any questions.