Recently discovered that popular series of Logitech’s remote controls Harmony has IR codes to control Video Disk Recorder (VDR) box. To get them to your device just download new remote using Logitech software choosing type PVR, producer KLS and model VDR. Also you can use this config file for LIRCd. Have fun!
[via VDR Wiki]
Using application Zemote ($3.99) developed by Zigzix you can easily turn your iPhone or iPod Touch into smart remote control for your HTPC. The Zemote communicates with HTPC via WiFi and needs additionally Zemote Receiver which should be installed on the media center side. Currently Windows XP or Vista version is available only. The OS X Zemote Receiver is coming soon. It’s sad that there is no any word about Linux version on the application web site.
[via eHomeUpgrade]
Another cool remote control with slide keyboard was found on the Engadget. The post is about Vizio and its services. But I couldn’t fine such remote on the Vizio web site. Maybe it’s fake or just concept. In any case, that remote looks very attractive for the HTPC owners the same as PS3 3in1 Wireless keyboard controller remote.
There is a very interesting concept of remote control for the Sony PS3 in the Superufo.com. The PS3 3in1 Wireless keyboard controller remote contains not only buttons typical for ordinary remotes. It has slide keyboard. So, when you need to type something it’ll be much easier then using separate real or virtual keyboard. That remote is just $28.52 which is even less then costs of ordinary remote control.
I’d like to have such device near my HTPC. It’s very useful to have keyboard when you need it and do not use separate one. Even extremely compact.
Panasonic announced a new concept of its remote control – EZ Touch Remote. It doesn’t look like any other remote control. The idea is do not have any hard key or virtual button on the device itself. Instead of that all information is displayed directly on the controlled TV. The EZ Touch Remote has two touch pads which allow multitouch data entry and zoom manipulation.
The EZ Touch Remote doesn’t look handy for me. Not sure that Panasonic’s approach is better then usual remote controls with hard keys or touchscreen. In any case let’s see how fast EZ Touch Remote will be available for consumers and what they will tell about it.
