MythTV Remotes

I've been running a beta release of the new CommandIR 2 for a little while now.  This is a device developed specifically for the Linux and MythTV market by Innovation One located in Ontario Canada. 

Innovation One provided MythPVR.com with a pre-release unit to beta test and review.

I evaluated the unit using MythDora (4.0) on my low power Via EPIA MythTV server.

For testing IR Remote functionality I used a StreamZap remote control and blasted IR signals at a Zenith DTT-900 Digital to Analog Converter set-top box and Toshiba TV.

The CommandIR 2 is a few things in one specialized USB hardware device:

1.  Four IR blasters, which can be independently controlled
2.  One on-board IR receiver
3.  One wired IR receiver (optional)
4.  Six software controllable LEDs

Analog Broadcast TV will soon be going away.

Even if you're not concerned about that yet, the upgrade to better (perfect!) picture quality and addition channels is well worth the upgrade.

In my case, the end result was going from 3 watchable over the air channels to 12, which all now have perfect picture and audio quality.

After much research, I decided to use my first of two government coupons on a Zenith DTT900 to use with MythTV.

All the Digital Converter Boxes on the market have some type of problem(s), but the Zenith seemed like the best of the bunch. Based on my usage over the past month, I am very happy with the decision and would recommend this device to anyone.

Here's how to get the Zenith DTT900 working with MythTV using a Serial IR Blaster.

While looking for a good remote control for my Silent MythTV Frontend I stumbled upon the StreamZap IR Remote Control, and decided to give it a try.

The StreamZap PC Remote Control sells for around $30, which includes a USB receiver. That puts the StreamZap is near the bottom of the price spectrum once you factor in the IR Receiver.

I've been using it for a couple months now, have mentioned it a few times on the MythTV mailing list, and figured it's about time I wrote a review.