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AirRemote (and other remote possibilities) for the iPhone
Just the other day I was thinking about how it might be possible to do something like this app reader Jason kindly dropped us a tip about: AirRemote is an application, soon to be released on the App Store, that's supposed to turn your iPhone or iPod touch into a television remote control. The first catch is that the app costs $99, and the second catch is that you have to buy an extra box (for about $150) to actually the signals to the TV. That's the hardest part about this whole iPhone-as-remote thing -- it's super easy to program the iPhone to do what you want, but it's much harder to get the TV or entertainment center to understand it. Most televisions aren't equipped with Bluetooth or WiFi, and Apple neglected to include an IR transmitter even in the 3G.But surely it's got to be possible at some point, right? Apps like telekinesis easily let you do a little remote computing, so the real trick here is just getting the TV in on the communications. It's too bad Apple's own little set-top box doesn't make it too easy (though maybe the wifi might let hackers do something with a little tweaking), but then again, maybe they don't want any competition for their own remote.Of course, buying an iPhone or iPod touch just to control your TV is a waste of money -- there are much cheaper remotes that will work much better. But in the interests of combining functions into one device, it sure would be useful to be able to do everything from one screen.
RF4CE Consortium aims to develop RF standard for entertainment control
Whittling down the amount of remotes in one's living room has long since been a challenge for the amateur home theater builder, and while there are some decent universal solutions on the market, the RF4CE Consortium is hoping to make things painfully simple. The group has been formed in order to "drive the adoption of an open radio frequency (RF) entertainment control specification based on IEEE 802.15.4." If you'll recall, this isn't the first time we've heard that standard called, as it's also used in MaxStream's XBee Xtender. Notably, Freescale is hoping to incorporate its Synkro technology into the specification, and in an ideal world, we'd see said protocol filter into DVD players, AV receivers, set-top-boxes and all manners of components. Let the IR-to-RF transition begin, we say.Read - Sony's RF4CE Consortium releaseRead - Freescale's RF4CE Consortium release
Amex Digital launches iMON HD Mobile portable media center
Amex Digital has certainly dabbled in the home theater space before, but we'll be honest, we're still scratching our heads on this one. The lightly detailed iMON HD Mobile is a self-proclaimed "portable media center," but beyond that, we're pretty much left to wonder what exactly is going on. We are told that it's an advanced IR receiver and VFD display device, and aside from delivering IR commands back to your PC, it'll also scroll across useful information such as news, media information, current time, weather, a graphical equalizer and system details. Guess we'll just hang tight until it gets fleshed out and goes on sale, though we can't say that display really gets our hopes up for anything great. [Via AkihabaraNews]
Gefen's latest extender sends HDMI, RS-232 and IR over CAT5
If you've been on the hunt for a multifaceted extender to handle just a bit more than HDMI, look no further. Gefen's HDMI RS-232 Extender is able to casually transmit HDMI, RS-232 control commands and IR signals up to 150-feet at 1080p (300-feet at 1080i) over standard CAT5 cabling. As expected, the device is HDCP-compliant, and it'll play nice with any IR unit you feel like attaching. Unfortunately, such convenience demands a serious premium, as this five-pound box will erode your savings account by $599. %Gallery-22330%
Ask Engadget HD: How can I record premium content on my HTPC?
Life is good if you got HD, but it's not all good. Sure, HD is great, but only if we can have it on our own terms, and unlike the analog sources before it, the powers that be are doing everything to keep us down. In the spirit of wanting things done right, our friend Justin writes in.I'm a big DIY PC guy, and I've been looking into ways of recording HDTV on my PC for quite sometime now. The problem is, I want to record HD Streams from my local Cable Provider (Charter), or possibly switch to Dish Network's HD-only package and record those streams. Unfortunately, either of those requires either a CableCARD or proprietary tuner. I know DirecTV has one in the works (Release Date: Day and Date with Duke Nukem Forever, I hear), and that Niveus has a dual CableCARD USB 2.0 Tuner (At an ungodly $1500 price tag), but that's all I can find!Believe us, we hear ya' Justin, but the options are slim. But while none are perfect there are a few ways to accomplish what your after.
DIY IR headgear repels security cameras, attracts "security"
It's not the first method we've seen for blinding security cameras, but this new DIY / art project from the folks at Oberwelt e.V. looks to be one of the simplest, and one of the few that could conceivably be used on an everyday basis. Dubbed the I-R.A.S.C. (for "infra-redlight against surveillance camera"), the device apparently consists simply of a series of infrared lights connected to a battery, which combine to blot out your face with a slightly unnerving glow. Needless to say, while it appears to hide your identity quite effectively, it doesn't exactly scream subtlety, so you'd best think of some excuses to explain yourself if you actually plan on trying this thing out in public.[Via Coolest Gadgets]
Finally, a full-function IR remote solution for the PS3
Despite limitations that keep us from crowning it the best Blu-ray player out there, the PS3 is the most popular way to get into the format. The PS3 also gets dinged as a Blu-ray player because of its Bluetooth remote control. Who knows what Sony was thinking -- maybe IR was just too old timey for their next gen console or maybe they just wanted to get as much "blue" as possible. Whatever the case, the use of Bluetooth makes it pretty much impossible to integrate the PS3 with your system's remote scheme. While there are USB-based workarounds, they leave out some functions (most notably power on/off). Enter the IR4PS3, which adds an IR receiver to the Bluetooth PS3 remote, effectively turning your Bluetooth PS3 remote into a IR-to-Bluetooth transceiver. IR goes in, Bluetooth commands go out, and you get full functionality. You want it, right? Well, you'll have to wait for the manufacturer to prepare a DIY-friendly revision (giving you time to polish up your soldering skills).[Image courtesy RemoteCentral]
Ask Engadget HD: What's the best universal remote out there?
Ah, the wonderful world of remotes. Just in case shopping for a new HDTV wasn't overwhelming enough, actually digging through heaps upon heaps of lackluster, poorly designed remotes is enough to drive anyone to falling back to the tried-and-true "five remotes at a time" method. This week's question is one that many are simply afraid to ask for fear of having to sit through a lecture of an answer -- thankfully, Joel can skim through your responses as time allows. I'm looking for a universal remote that's highly flexible, extremely versatile and well-designed. I hesitate to start calling out my list of components because I tend to change things up on a somewhat frequent basis. Basically, I'm trying to narrow my choices of units that can control my HD DVD / Blu-ray combo player, AV receiver, television, HD DVR and HTPC, if that's even possible. Oh, and I'd prefer not having to purchase the most expensive one on the market, as cost is a concern. So, there you have it. Roll this one around in your gord for a tick and dish out any personal experiences you've had (successes or failures) with particular remotes.Got a burning question that you'd love to toss out for Engadget HD (or its readers) to take a look at? Tired of Google's blank stares when you ask for real-world experiences? Hit us up at ask at engadgethd dawt com and keep an eye on this space -- your inquiry could be next.[Image courtesy of UseIt]
DIY hand-based 3D input
If you've ever felt the burning desire to give your index finger a little more prominence in your day-to-day computing exercises, here's your chance. A DIY'er has combined an IR-based, homemade tracking system with a piece of software that he's coded which can translate the IR data into 3D navigation. So far, the system can track the movement of two hands using six individual points (we assume one per axis, per hand). Details are scarce on the project right now, but the prospect of manipulating onscreen images or spaces in three dimensions with a cheap and simple solution is definitely enticing. Check the video after the break to see a finger in action.
Joystiq hands-on: Link's Crossbow Training (Wii)
Reaching back to the glory days of light guns, the Wii Zapper steals the name of Nintendo's classic NES controller, but the two are fundamentally different. The previous light gun used a mechanic to essentially see what was on-screen, so the gun sight actually corresponded with the action. The Wii Zapper instead is just a plastic shell to hold a Wii Remote and Nunchuk. The Wiimote pointer continues to work through IR triangulation; players can't sight down the new attachment.I recently played the Wii Zapper pack-in, Link's Crossbow Training, and was surprised at how good the Wii Zapper felt and how well the game responded. Shooting from the hip -- sometimes literally -- I maintained good control over the on-screen cross-hair. I still prefer the precision of a light gun's sight, but knocking down Zelda-themed bad guys in a series of game scenarios was still fun.%Gallery-8658%
Denon launches programmable RC-7000CI remote
Right on cue, Denon has gone and launched the oh-so-snazzy RC-7000CI remote, which we had the pleasure of seeing a tad early thanks to the FCC. The fully programmable, ZigBee-based remote allows for universal command and control of all Denon remote controlled products "as well as products from other manufacturers," and those with internet access (that'd be you, hot shot) can simply connect the remote to a PC via USB and "program the functionality of all the products in their system" care of the online IR database. Paired up with one or two RC-7001RCI RF/IR Remote Bases (pictured after the jump), the duo creates a multi-room remote control system that allows for "both two-way communication and IR functionality." As with everything labeled Denon, don't expect either of these August-bound niceties to come sans a premium, as you'll be asked to cough up $299.99 for the remote itself, while each base station adds another $199.99.[Via TrustedReviews]
Fujifilm's IS Pro DSLR lends a hand in forensics
Fujifilm has been lending a helping hand in the realm of investigative photography for quite some time, and the firm's latest picks up where the S3 Pro UVIR and IS-1 left off. Featuring Fujifilm's Super CCD Pro and Real Photo Processor Pro technology to see light from the ultraviolet, visible, and infrared portions of the spectrum, this 12.3-megapixel gem also sports face detection, password protected lockouts, optional "rubber body armor," CF / Microdrive slots, RAW support, and a live image preview LCD to boot. Moreover, it's fully compatible with Nikon F mount lenses and iTTL flash systems, which should ease the burden of switching costs if you've already sunk way too much into Nikon accessories. No word just yet on how much coinage this will demand, but look for it to land in precincts (okay, store shelves too) next month.
Far Infrared HandStrap: Mysteries of the Unknown
This exotic wrist strap claims to make use of bio-ceramics, a composite of lead-free minerals, to douse your arm with far infrared rays and help with blood circulation. Though "far infrared rays" might sound sinister if you're not familiar with them and their uses, they are supposedly quite healthy.You can't see far infrared rays in the sun's light, but you can feel their warmth absorbed into your skin. In addition to their blood circulation benefits, these miracle beams are also said to naturally reduce inflammation, decrease pain, and revitalize skin cells. All that for only 780 yen (approximately $6.33)!
Guitar tuned for makeshift IR decoding
While its practicality may be somewhat limited, we've got to give some props to Benjamin Eckel for finding what is surely one of the most geeky uses for a guitar yet devised: turning that otherwise wailing axe into a makeshift IR decoder. In true DIY fashion, Benjamin admits that he doesn't entirely understand how the whole thing works, but he assures us that it does, requiring nothing more than a WAV editor and a means of hooking the guitar up to your PC. You'll still have to do the hard work of deciphering the waveforms yourself, however, which should prove to be endless good times.[Via Hack a Day]
Use an Apple Remote with older hardware
Iyaz Akhtar over at theappleblog points to a nifty little device from Twisted Melon called the Manta TR1, which enabled the Apple IR remote on any older Mac via USB. Just plug in the Manta to a free USB port and your old G4, etc. can rock with an Apple Remote, just like the newest Intel Macs. The Manta is meant to work with Twisted Melon's own Mira Apple Remote software, which we mentioned earlier. In addition, the Manta hardware supports IR blasting (to control other devices) but that functionality is not "used with Mira at this time." Check out Iyaz's original post for more info on RF Remotes.The Manta TR1 sells for $19.99, and Mira runs $15.95, or you can get them bundled together for $32 from the Twisted Melon store. Of course you'll also need an Apple Remote if you don't have one already; they run $29 from Apple.Update: chanting over and over again, "Manta"
DIY infrared digicam filter on the cheap
If you're looking to get in touch with your artsy side, check out Instructables' DIY infrared filter project, which not only involves crafting the hack, but also adds some new flavor to your digital photography routine. With some cardboard tubes, old negatives, electrical tape, and a few other minor tools, you can whip up one of these in a jiffy. You're good to go as long as your camera's sensitive to infrared light -- something you can test using an IR remote. We suggest experimenting with subject matter like nature scenes or architecture, but if you decide to perv it up, good luck trying to peep those Japanese Olympic swimmers.
Homebrew lets you use keyboard with PSP
Finally: another use for PSP's IR port. New homebrew from Fanjita and harleyg called "piKey" lets OE users the ability to use keyboards with the PSP. "Imagine being able to use your keyboard to control any PSP game or homebrew, and even the PSP's XMB menu and on-screen keyboard, automatically and without needing any changes to the other software. This is what piKey aims to give you."An installer is included to make installation as easy as possible. The software is compatible with various infrared keyboards through the IR port, and serial I/O via the PSP's headphone socket. The download includes an user's manual to make things a bit easier.The attractiveness of using a keyboard with the PSP seems limited to me: the device is a handheld, not a computer. However, it's certainly an interesting program. Download it at PSP Gen.[Via PSP-Hacks]
Sharp HN-IR1 beams cameraphone pics on your HDTV via IrSS
Sure, there's already a way to beam high-definition content onto your TV if you keep all of your media stored on your iPod, but for whimsical shooters that wield their cameraphone or IrSS-enabled digital camera most of the time, Sharp's kicking out a bantam liaison just for you. Designed to ideally operate with high-speed infrared devices, the HN-IR1 enables cellphones and other IrSS gizmos to transmit high-quality photos wirelessly, where it's then channeled onto your set at resolutions up to 1,920 x 1080. Of course, it'll automatically downscale if you aren't plugged into an HDTV, and interestingly enough, it purportedly interfaces with a few of Sharp's AQUOS HD recorders in order to burn your photos to HDD / DVD. The wee device checks in at just 3.1- x 2.8- x 1.1-inches, handles photos up to eight-megapixels, and boasts a maximum transmission rate of 4Mbps, and while no exhaustive list of compatible devices was noted, a good deal of NTT DoCoMo handsets should fit the bill. So if you never seem to have time to transfer your photos over to entertain the family with a big screen slideshow, those in Japan can snag the HN-IR1 in late April for ¥14,000 ($116).[Via Impress]
Morph a McDonald's iZ toy into an IR repeater
Apparently this is the season to give IR-less, inanimate objects a bit of infrared love, as we've now got yet another IR installation duty for you handle once you've mastered the chore of getting the connectivity in your PlayStation 3. For those mums and pops who frequent McDonald's all too frequently, you've probably got a satisfactory stash of iZ toys laying around like landmines in the kitchen floor. If you've already got a (partial) multiroom IR channeling setup going, there's always the need for more coverage, so that's where the relatively useless "orange iZ" comes in, along with an IR receiver, soldering gun, and a dash of DIY prowess. This engineering dad cracked open the critter, carefully inserted the repeater, and made sure to clean up the mess by routing the cables through a rear opening, producing an impressively clean result. So if you're looking to make something worthwhile out of those otherwise ineffectual Happy Meal toys, be sure to hit the read link for all your instructions, and click on through for the repeatin' in action.[Via MAKE]
Nintendo's Wii gets into the home automation game
For those of you who've just unboxed (or already snagged) a Nintendo Wii, and are more interested in casing out the innards or hacking it up, we've got yet another challenge for you and your console. While we've seen how to control the functions of your home with a PSP, there's just something special about flinging your Wiimote up and down to lower and raise the lighting conditions around your crib. Aside from a Wii, Wiimote, and a good bit of spare time, you'll also need the Smarthome Insteon lights w/ ControlLinc, an Aurora Multimedia WACI NX, a Linux-based PC, and if you wish, an optional AXIS PTZ IP Security Camera and Proliphix IP Thermostat. Once you've got your hardware in order, you'll need to get your palms on a PHP script that directs the IP traffic and forwards the appropriate information. This home automation mod has the potential to control "lights, thermostat, cameras, jukeboxes, DVRs, TiVos," and basically anything you can dictate via IP information. So if you're looking for a great way to spend your hours off, and don't mind getting dirty with a little coding, be sure to hit the read link for the full rundown, and click on through for a YouTube demonstration.[Via Digg, thanks Nate]
