Remote Control

[kilmanjaro]

Does anyone know of someplace that makes a good wireless remote contol? I've already got a game theater, so the sound blaster platinum isn't an option. I also bought one the old packard bell remotes for 5 bucks (figured what the heck?), but it doesn't seem to like me. Any thoughts about where I can get one for less than say, $30? Thanks!

 

[sohcrates]

remote control for what might i ask?

 

[kilmanjaro]

Probably for Winamp and something like Zoom player or another media player that supports divx. I'm building a rig for my entertainment center w/ the left overs from my last system (P3 800, board, and 128 ram, 30 gig hd). All i really need is a case, 32 Meg AIW, wireless keyboard/mouse, dvd drive, and I'd like a remote to go along w/ the keyboard/mouse for pausing movies or switching songs (all my mp3's will be on this rig). Anyways, if someone knows where I can get one, please give me some ideas. Thanks!

 

[sohcrates]

well, i have the x10 "mp3 anywhere" system. it's main use is to wirelessly transmit audio and video, but it has a remote control that integrates through your serial port that can be configured to control most of your a/v players (including winamp).

this is the link. i guess it runs about 70 bucks. but it's really pretty cool...and works well. plus, depending on where you put your receivers, you don't have to be in the same room to control winamp, etc.

 

[madthumbs]

I've been considering this, but I think a cordless optical mouse may be just as good for my purposes.

 

[SeTeS]

Try looking for a Keyspan Digital Media Remote.

Tiny little IR remote w/ a usb receiver. Picked one up for presentations. Works well and has great distance. The software allows custom keymappings per application. Should be around 50 bucks or so.

 

[Workin']

X10 MouseRemote VK19A combined with maX10 3rd-party software is the ultimate PC remote control. The unit is $50 and the software is free.

 

[kilmanjaro]

Where can I find this stuff? Anyone have a link to a site?

 

[sohcrates]

www.x10.com

 

[Workin']

The maX10 software is at SourceForge, not sure of the link I'm not at my usual computer, try searching at Google.

 

[RossMAN]

I totally agree with SeTes, I found the Keyspan Digital Media Remote for $30.36 with free shipping but you have to order it on 7/2, no earlier, no later.

 

[SeTeS]

Ditto on that deal RossMAN.. I got the same thing thru dell... bought 1 for home and an extra one for work.

 

[sun818]

Hey kilmajaro. I have experience helping people set up their Packard Bell Remote Control. There are a few programs I can recommend and some troubleshooting tips I can provide. Gimme an e-mail at sun818@techgems.net with your rig setup, specifically what is on your com ports (modem, zip drive?) and I'll try my best to help you.

If you want to control WinAmp, a program called WinLIRC is easy to setup. I have free download link at http://sun818.home.mindspring.com/html/ir_remote.htm You can also look into a free program called Girder which adds full PC control. You can find install instructions at http://www.geocities.com/mixxen

So, your solution is free and no need to buy additional hardware (hopefully).

Thanks.