Controlling Your Computer with IR Remotes?

FredThompson asks: "I'm looking for information about using those cheap universal replacement IR remote controls with PCs. You know, the kind you get to work with a VCR. The unit I bought says it works with other things like VCRs, CD players, etc. I'd like to use it to control a Book PC which is part of my entertainment center. I'm running WIndows 2000 Pro and would like to make a front end for MP3,VCD,AVI, etc. It also occurred to me these remotes might be usable as gamepads which could be really cool because they work at a farther range than most game pads. That might mean moving the LED but it's still an idea. Do any of you have suggestions of where I can find information about making this work?" For Linux users, you may want to check out the LIRC Project. Is there equivalent software for Windows?

Comments

Fast enough response/action?

[innocent_white_lamb]

I wonder if you would be able to get a sufficiently fast response from a remote control. They aren't designed for that purpose (of course) and any that I've ever had anything to do with seem to be pretty "klunky". Would the unit have a sufficiently fast action to be able to respond to on-screen events before your character gets eaten by the monster?