Device to start computer from a distance

[simpat1zq]

I have an old P4 Dell. I have the computer connected to my TV, and it is sitting behind the TV stand. I don't want to leave it running all the time since we only use it around once a week.

I was wondering if there is any device that I can connect to the motherboard so that I can start the computer without having to reach behind the TV. I would also like for that device to be connected to the power LED so that I can see if the computer is on or not.

Do they make a ready made device that would be able to do this?

Otherwise, do they at least make a 6 ft long switch/led for those connectors on the motherboard?

Here's a link to exactly what I want, but they are out of stock, and have been for a very long time:
http://www.geeks.com/details.asp?invtId=e-pc-s1-n

I would prefer something with a nice finish like that. But I can't seem to even find a really long power switch/LED.

I would appreciate any help on this.

 

[Zap]

Originally posted by: simpat1zq
Here's a link to exactly what I want, but they are out of stock, and have been for a very long time:
http://www.geeks.com/details.asp?invtId=e-pc-s1-n

You can make something that does the same thing. It is basically just a power button connected to your motherboard like a normal power button, but with a 6' cable.

Pricier alternatives:

Logisys FP800SL Silver Remote Multifunction Panel

Just Cooler RC-168 (may be discontinued)

iMON Inside

 

[simpat1zq]

I saw that Logisys. I didn't see the other 2, but they are out of my price range for this. That Ignition 1 was a great price, but no one sells it any more.

Do you know if it they make a ready made cable that's 6 feet long to connect to the motherboard? I would like to avoid soldering if at all possible.

I'm thinking I'm going to have to make this whole thing myself, but I'm trying to avoid that.

 

[nickbits]

Get a Windows Media center remote and receiver.

 

[MagnusTheBrewer]

They sell something called 'Magic Switch' I believe at Harbor freight. It's a wireless device which controls 3 outlets. It comes with a 3 switch panel and 3 modules you plug into the receptacles you want to control. Then, you plug your computer or, whatever, into each module. I think it was about $20

 

[simpat1zq]

I thought about using the power thing, but I didn't want to accidentally turn off the computer.

Do they make Media Center remote receivers that connect to the power switch on the computer?

 

[elconejito]

can you setup the Dell to goto sleep? and can it be setup to wake up on USB (like mice or keyboard)? If you can, then get the MCE remote. When it detects a signal, it will wake up the computer. The IR receiver has a really long cable. Alternatively, you might be able to do the same with a wireless keyboard and mouse.

 

[simpat1zq]

It doesn't have the ability to wake on USB event. I already have a wireless keyboard that has the MCE button, but it doesn't do anything. I've messed with a bunch of settings in the BIOS, and none of them change that.

I also tried using the sleep mode, and that machine seems to have trouble getting back out of the sleep mode.

 

[somethingsketchy]

Originally posted by: simpat1zq
I thought about using the power thing, but I didn't want to accidentally turn off the computer.

Do they make Media Center remote receivers that connect to the power switch on the computer?

I'm not sure if the WMC IR remote can wake up the PC, but I do know the remote can turn it off. I haven't gone around to setting computer to turn on, via the remote. It would be pretty cool if you can get it to work. That'll probably be one of the "cheaper" options.

 

[Gillbot]

Wake on Lan

 

[jaggerwild]

I read in CPU the magazine where they used a basic car alarm then converted it to use with the computer(by remote). They have wireless remotes that are cheap and work well. It is a basic dongle and remote, plug the dongle into a USB port . BOOM DONE! Maybe less than $75.00.
Good luck!

 

[Aluvus]

Originally posted by: jaggerwild
I read in CPU the magazine where they used a basic car alarm then converted it to use with the computer(by remote). They have wireless remotes that are cheap and work well. It is a basic dongle and remote, plug the dongle into a USB port . BOOM DONE! Maybe less than $75.00.
Good luck!

There are a variety of projects on the Internet using a wireless doorbell for this purpose.

 

[jaggerwild]

Here it is sorry not a car alarm(thought it was) and only ten bucks, CPU the magazine does a walk in there October 2008 issue. You can look it up online........

"Logysis RM01"