[nikc0069]

I currently have a setup in an open cabinet. The setup comprises of one freesat box, one htpc, one xbox 360 and a Denon HDMI switching amp.

We are redoing the living room and intend to get a lovely tv bench but it has closed doors. Obviously the htpc is controllable via the RF keyboard, but I was trying to think of a clever way of controlling the rest. As far as I know the freesat box, and my tv, don't support HDMI CEC, even though the amp does.

As such, the only way I can think of is an IR blaster. If anyone else has any creative suggestions I'd love to know how other people do this.

Mods feel free to move if this is the wrong forum for this.

[dalben]

I installed smoked glass doors in my tv bench. IR still works like a charm

[jammyb]

I got this

http://www.hdconnectivity.com/ir-over-hd...e-kit.html

Bloody brilliant it is. Controls my freesat box, htpc and HDMI matrix box perfectly, from the other room!

I ordered it when out of stock. Took about 2 weeks to come.

[nikc0069]

I got this

http://www.hdconnectivity.com/ir-over-hd...e-kit.html

Bloody brilliant it is. Controls my freesat box, htpc and HDMI matrix box perfectly, from the other room!

I ordered it when out of stock. Took about 2 weeks to come.

That looks great but my TV doesn't support CEC and neither does my Freesat box I don't think. Otherwise that'd be a great solution, cheers

[jammyb]

WTF. it doesn't use CEC bud.

It uses the HDMI cable with an IR blaster on one end and a IR receiver on the other end.

Nothing to do with your telly. It uses the HDMI cable to send the IR signals.

Have a re-read!

[nikc0069]

no real need for wtf, but.... yea I see now. That is quite cool but it is basically an IR extender tacked on to an hdmi cable so wouldn't really win me anything over a well hidden ir repeater for the distances involved. Good for those looking to keep cabling at a minimum though, so cheers

[jammyb]

There was real need to emphasise WTF

This solution is PERFECT for your situation! A little magic eye on top of your telly and utilising your existing HDMI cabling and thus meaning you can have your cabinet doors closed!

It's a 5 minute job to fit and the range on the blaster means it can control a fair few appliances!

As I said before. Mines in my av cabinet controlling my freesat box, HDMI matrix box and HTPC!

Compared to a standard sky+ magic eye. This thing is brilliant.

[aptalca]

If your universal remote uses AA or AAA batteries, this is as good as it gets:
http://www.amazon.com/Next-Generation-Re...000C1Z0HA/

no line of sight required, true radio frequency wireless option. Works great with my Harmony 700 (does not work with harmony 650, and a couple other Harmony's, but it does work with most other universal remotes)

just replace one of the batteries in the remote with the included radio transmitter, and place the ufo in your av cabinet

[nikc0069]

That last one is a touch of voodoo - both look like great solutions cheers. Will keep this thread subscribed so when I come to do the overhaul I can choose one

[BryanKeene]

There are lots of solutions out there.
The HD connectivity looks like a great idea.

We do get through loads of these kits , really easy to install and will control everything plus as it is hard wired so no interference issues.

http://www.keene.co.uk/electronic/keene-...bkitf.html

A few reviews on there also so you don't have to take my word for it...

[Ned Scott]

This? http://www.ebay.com/itm/Infrared-Remote-...vi-content

[mprassel]

If your universal remote uses AA or AAA batteries, this is as good as it gets:
http://www.amazon.com/Next-Generation-Re...000C1Z0HA/

no line of sight required, true radio frequency wireless option. Works great with my Harmony 700 (does not work with harmony 650, and a couple other Harmony's, but it does work with most other universal remotes)

just replace one of the batteries in the remote with the included radio transmitter, and place the ufo in your av cabinet

I can vouch for this product. It's amazing.