Looking for some Remote Control Assistance

[hchucky]

My current system consists of 3 clients and a server and three SAT boxes. The server is setup to control all three boxes via a USBUIRT (utilizing 3 zones) and the server itself is controlled by the Hauppauge remote. I used the setup in this configuration for many months without any issues.

Unfortunately the some of the codes on the Hauppauge remote are the same codes used to control one of the TVs in my home so some changes were needed. First I tried to teach Sage new codes via the Hauppauge IR target but it would not accept any that I threw at it. (I use an MX500). At that point I discontinued using the Hauppauge Remote control altogether and configured the USBIRT to control Sage as well as the SAT boxes.

I had no problems programming new codes into Sage using the USBUIRT but I did run into one issue. Whenever instructing Sage to change channels via IR and Sage tries to change channels on the SAT box in zone 3 it will often screw it up. Just so we are on the same page zone 3 utilizes the IR emitter built into the USBUIRT. Since it only makes channel changing mistakes when working in zone 3 I’ve come to the conclusion that the incoming IR signal via an IR emitter that sits directly in front of the USBUIRT (telling it to change) is interfering with the IR signal the USBUIRT is attempting to send to the SAT box. It's also worth noting that when Sage changes the channel on its own say to record a show it never appears to make a mistake. This behavior further supports my theory of the two IR signals interfering with one another.

I’ve tried placing the emitter in various places directly on the front of the USBIRT as well as placing it in various places somewhere in front of the USBIRT. The net is the results are always the same. Zone 3 channel changes get messed up.

What I’m looking for is some advice on what might be the best way to resolve this issue. So far I’m considering the following options. All of which include placing the USBUIRT back in a “SAT box control only” mode.

1. Go back to using the Hauppauge IR receiver and somehow alter the commands it accepts in order to avoid contention with my other TV. Possibly accomplish this by altering the irremote.ini. (is this possible?)
2. Purchase a Streamzap remote control. Can this be taught new codes?
3. Dust off my Tira and Girder
4. Purchase an IRMan (appears to be backordered until 12/05)

Thanks,
HC