> However, just recently, the new style universal remotes are on the market.
> Most of them start with basic programming, just like the conventional
> universal remotes do. BUT...........they also have a 'learning' mode
> function. You lay both remotes on a table top facing each other. The
> learning remote has extra unassigned buttons, which you can custom program
> by having it read the output of the original remote control unit.

Of course, then you won't have done it yourself... ;-).

Actually, there are three uber-huge advantages to doing this yourself:

1.  This device could be the only visible device (besides your monitor)
to an entertainment center.  Everything else can be hidden inside a
cabinet.

2.  You could include a PC interface on this thing, to allow you to control
a media player PC with it.

3.  You'll learn a whole heck of a lot.

Number 3 may be the best argument- factor in your time and the
costs involved and there's almost certainly an off-the-shelf solution
that'll take care of 1 and 2.

Mike H.

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