View Full Version : IR to Bluetooth remote control of the PS3 NOW!
bryansj 03-28-08, 09:44 AM The IR2BT is available NOW at www.ir2bt.com (http://www.ir2bt.com) and the PS3IR-PRO from www.schmartstuff.com (http://www.schmartstuff.com) is supposed to be up for pre-order today.
These units take an IR signal and convert it to Bluetooth to control your PS3 with a universal remote. This includes Power On and Off, PS Home Key, and the four color buttons.
PursuitGT 03-28-08, 10:41 AM If someone gets th IR2BT then need to Review it here ASAP!
bryansj 03-28-08, 10:55 AM If someone gets th IR2BT then need to Review it here ASAP!
There is a review here http://www.ir2bt.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=41
Conan450 03-28-08, 10:59 AM Mine is on order, should be here in a few days, ill post my impressions when it arrives.
Also have one on order... Using a Harmony 880 and will post a review after I receive/set it up.
davidag02 03-28-08, 11:31 AM If either of these products are as great as I hope they are, then the last issue I have with the PS3 is fixed!
Can't wait for the MGS4 bundle!
If either of these products are as great as I hope they are, then the last issue I have with the PS3 is fixed!
Can't wait for the MGS4 bundle!
Wait, you forgot the lack of DTS-HD:MA decoding! :D;) Isn't that the last issue to resolve with the PS3?
Sorry, I couldn't resist!!
If either of these products are as great as I hope they are, then the last issue I have with the PS3 is fixed!
Can't wait for the MGS4 bundle!
Not a DTS-MA fan? ;)
Van Wildonher 03-28-08, 07:48 PM Sold out ehh. Oh well now I can wait for some reviews.
sievers 03-28-08, 08:58 PM how is this different/better than this one, which seems to be available and much cheaper?
http://www.nyko.com/nyko/products/?i=113
bryansj 03-28-08, 09:06 PM how is this different/better than this one, which seems to be available and much cheaper?
http://www.nyko.com/nyko/products/?i=113
It maps all 51 commands directly so you don't have to pull up the on screen display, has power on and off, PS home button support, and doesn't use up a PS3 USB port. If full control isn't a big deal to you then get the Nyko and save some money and live with the limitations.
FreeBaGeL 03-28-08, 09:12 PM Awesome news, can't wait to read a review on this.
Price is steeeeeep but probably worth it at this point.
TheDaywalker 03-29-08, 01:43 AM ok..i was hesitating on getting a logitech remote..but now...oh man...with my ps3...and this?
Oh yeah..
Also..should i get the harmony 890 or 880?
What do you guys suggest or is there a link?
Thanks.
bryansj 03-29-08, 07:32 AM ok..i was hesitating on getting a logitech remote..but now...oh man...with my ps3...and this?
Oh yeah..
Also..should i get the harmony 890 or 880?
What do you guys suggest or is there a link?
Thanks.
Post your requirements in the remote control forum. The 880 is IR only and the 890 is RF, Zwave, and IR. It depends on if you don't have line-of-sight to your components. I have the 890 and had an 880, but would like a URC if I had the money to burn.
newfmp3 03-29-08, 12:24 PM is this just a small box that you point your ir remote to, and it converts that to BT and sends that to the ps?
just want to make sure I'm understanding it right. You take a logitech remote or other universal. Configure the logitech for ps2/ps3 codes using their web/online system, then just point it at that box....done. If so I could certainly use this, but at 50 bucks...I'll wait for the price to come down.
bryansj 03-29-08, 01:07 PM is this just a small box that you point your ir remote to, and it converts that to BT and sends that to the ps?
just want to make sure I'm understanding it right. You take a logitech remote or other universal. Configure the logitech for ps2/ps3 codes using their web/online system, then just point it at that box....done. If so I could certainly use this, but at 50 bucks...I'll wait for the price to come down.
That's right.
I doubt the price is going to come down unless something big happens such as Sony releasing their own solution. I think these boxes are a hacked apart Sony BT remote plus a case plus the IR receiver, USB power, and control chip to bring it all together. I'd say that at $55 the profit margin is rather slim. The schmartstuff.com solution is $100!
sievers 03-29-08, 02:17 PM It maps all 51 commands directly so you don't have to pull up the on screen display, has power on and off, PS home button support, and doesn't use up a PS3 USB port. If full control isn't a big deal to you then get the Nyko and save some money and live with the limitations.
Are the basic controls mapped directly on the nyko? I would just be looking for power on/off, standard transport controls, and directional navigation but I don't know what else this new one does that I'd be missing. What is the home button?
Conan450 03-29-08, 04:05 PM Are the basic controls mapped directly on the nyko? I would just be looking for power on/off, standard transport controls, and directional navigation but I don't know what else this new one does that I'd be missing. What is the home button?
no power on/off with the nyko, plus extremely slow response time,
The nyko was not a solution just a quick fix for movie watching
badahab 03-30-08, 05:42 PM It looks like it responds pretty quick in the youtube videos they posted.
Video 1, the very basics. (http://youtube.com/watch?v=UAg8aMoc0q0&feature=related)
Video 2, powering on and pairing. (http://youtube.com/watch?v=rPQjdicWn4A)
Engadget has a quick blurb about it here on their site. (http://www.engadget.com/2008/03/28/ir2bt-infrared-to-bluetooth-converter-now-on-sale-ps3-owners-re/)
I jumped the gun and set it up on my harmony 520 already... can't wait.
-Sean
serversurfer 03-30-08, 06:01 PM They already have a Harmony profile for it? Wow, that's pretty slick.
badahab 03-30-08, 09:19 PM They already have a Harmony profile for it? Wow, that's pretty slick.
Yeah but I had to go through and re-assign all the buttons, they were blank by default.
Now I just wish I could order the ir2bt...
-Sean
I purchased a PS3IR from SchmartStuff. It was was bit more elegant then either the Nyko or PS2 DVD remote (with dongle). Can't really notice it, even when standing right in front of it (my PS3 is at eye level). I usually have to point it out to other PS3 owners when they're over. I use it with a Harmony 520. Doesn't support powering on/off or all 51 functions, but works great. I was so impressed that some hobbyist had an itch to scratch and created it, that I gave him my business almost on principle. I was fluent enough with the controller, that it really wasn't a big need (for me anyway). Wife may beg to differ. :D
I remember reading the thread that Mike (Schmartstuff) was posting in and he stated, that Bluetooth, is entirely a different ballgame. You'll need an FCC license and I believe, they also need to go through an approval process. The IR2BT looks pretty cool. Small enough to sit out of the way.
I wish Schmartstuff had better pictures. Previous customers get a $25 discount off if they email their original order # to him.
In any case, glad to see these people step up and fill this niche. I hope they all make a lot of money. Good for them, some really creative and inventive people out there. Give them your support!
Still boogles my mind, how Sony themselves don't offer this. :confused: But at this stage, they won't get my business. Them or any other big players. I'll go with the little guy.
It looks like it's going to be a while before any of these are going to be in stock. If you go on his forums, there are hundreds of people waiting to get one. I also think that $55 is an awesome price considering they are not mass produced.
bryansj 03-31-08, 10:42 AM It looks like it's going to be a while before any of these are going to be in stock. If you go on his forums, there are hundreds of people waiting to get one. I also think that $55 is an awesome price considering they are not mass produced.
I'm order #28 :)
I just couldn't see myself paying 1/4 the cost of the PS3 itself for the Schmart PS3IR-PRO solution.
Order #30... mine was delivered today and will be waiting for me when I get home!
I really want one of these now :)
davidag02 03-31-08, 02:29 PM Wait, you forgot the lack of DTS-HD:MA decoding! :D;) Isn't that the last issue to resolve with the PS3?
Sorry, I couldn't resist!!
Only rockin 5.1 right now. So the lack of DTS: MA isn't that big of a deal to me. Hopefully that issue will be fixed by the time I upgrade to 7.1
Conan450 03-31-08, 03:21 PM Only rockin 5.1 right now. So the lack of DTS: MA isn't that big of a deal to me. Hopefully that issue will be fixed by the time I upgrade to 7.1
Plus all that hype around the "bitstream bomb" has made me wonder if DTS - MA is even worth it
Order #30... mine was delivered today and will be waiting for me when I get home!
Same for order #32! :)
Fit2Run 03-31-08, 03:55 PM Same for order #32! :)
Order #140 still in route I assume. Hopefully have it tomorrow.
Only rockin 5.1 right now. So the lack of DTS: MA isn't that big of a deal to me. Hopefully that issue will be fixed by the time I upgrade to 7.1
It IS a big deal, most movies with DTS-MA tracks are 5.1, there are very few 7.1 movies on the market.
let's hope the firmware updates in summer rumours are true :D
Will-san 03-31-08, 08:15 PM Mine shipped today. (#71) Dude was nice enough to call me and sort out a problem with my zip code (turns out I am an idiot). I just got IR control of all my insteon lighting last week so this will finally get me to one remote to rule it all, totally worth $55.
My IR2BT works awesome with my Harmony. Very happy with it!
bryansj 03-31-08, 09:08 PM My IR2BT works with my Harmony 890 via port B. I have the USB connected to my DirecTV HR-21 HD DVR and the IR emitter is shared between it and the IR2BT.
At first I had an issue with the power off not working, but could manually do the macro (power toggle, down, down, hold power toggle, x, x) and get it to work. I put the key delays back to default (changed all but power delay to 0ms) and manually cycled the power on my PS3 using the switch on the back. Now everything just works.
Anyone want to buy a like new Nyko BlueWave remote?
Will-san 04-01-08, 12:08 PM My IR2BT works with my Harmony 890 via port B. I have the USB connected to my DirecTV HR-21 HD DVR and the IR emitter is shared between it and the IR2BT.
Ok gotta ask. what do you mean "via port B" ?
vassillios 04-01-08, 12:36 PM his usb ports are probably labeled a, b etc
bryansj 04-01-08, 01:09 PM his usb ports are probably labeled a, b etc
Not my USB ports, but my IR output from the remote extender. I was probably giving too much detail, but just wanted to state that I had it restricted to an individual IR port in case anyone else was using an 890 and had trouble getting it to work with the extender.
Ok gotta ask. what do you mean "via port B" ?
I'm guessing he's using the RF extender and has the IR emitter plugged into port B. The RF extender has 4 ports for IR emitters A-D and each port can control two devices.
Mine is on port C
Will-san 04-01-08, 01:48 PM Got it, thanks!
Waiting patiently for more to become available! I keep checking the site through out the day, I want one....bad. I ordered a Harmony 670 to go with it and am waiting on it too. Patience.
Will-san 04-04-08, 12:18 PM Got mine all set up. Works Better than I expected. (I thought it would be slow but with my harmony 688 it navigates the XMB very well). Some of the default button mappings in the harmony database are um...odd. You may need to change a few of the mappings to get it to work . But it looks like they are getting that sorted out (http://ir2bt.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=22&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=45) soon. You will still want to change a few more to match your preferences.
Mine shipped with zero documentation which I thought was odd, but they have a set up video on youtube which explains everything fairly well.
I kinda expected My fiancee to roll her eyes at yet another gadget, but she was super excited that we are finally down to one remote (she really hated that she needed a game controller to watch a DVD).
orogogus 04-04-08, 01:15 PM glad to hear it works as advertised, and it's cool that someone is stepping up where Sony missed the mark. On principle, I'm still irritated at the idea of spending $55 (and having another extra piece of kit) to fix a $0.2IR receiver that should have been integrated into in the original product. Yes, yes bluetooth control is all great and spanky and forward looking and all, but backwards compatibility to satisfy 99.9% of your customers is never a bad idea in product design. Are you listening Sony? Somehow I doubt it.
They are available for pre order right now but quantites are limited! Just got on the list, order 199. Got the Harmony on Friday and love it.
I just placed my order for the IR2BT :) , can't wait. (I'm #383)
jojo311 04-06-08, 02:17 PM They are available for pre order right now but quantites are limited! Just got on the list, order 199. Got the Harmony on Friday and love it.
For those curious on how fast/slow they are selling: I placed my order at 11:10am PST and I'm #392.
I have a Schmart PS3IR-I never used. its the discontinued one that sold for $50 Sell for $35 shipped for those interested
dogdoctor 04-06-08, 04:26 PM I have a Schmart PS3IR-PRO I never used. Sell for $40 shipped for those interested
Wait - the PS3IR-Pro hasn't even shipped! How do you have one and why for $40? Count me interested if it is really the IR-PRO. I have been communicating with Mr. Schmart via email - his IR to BT converters are slated to ship on or about 4/15/08 (Patent Pending as well). Are you unloading your preorder in favor of the IR2BT or did you just post the wrong model number?
Does this give you any additional functionality over the PS3 bluray remote (besides being able to use your universal remote)?
drhankz 04-09-08, 04:54 PM Does this give you any additional functionality over the PS3 bluray remote (besides being able to use your universal remote)?
That is the BIGGEST added functionality on the planet :D using IR
Does this give you any additional functionality over the PS3 bluray remote (besides being able to use your universal remote)?
No, it gives you the same level of control as the Sony BT remote... which until now you couldn't get with any of the other IR adapter type solutions.
If you don't mind having multiple remotes, then the Sony BT remote is the way to go; otherwise, I highly recommend the IR2BT as the PS3 IR solution.
Weaselboy 04-09-08, 06:15 PM http://www.appleinsider.com/articles/08/04/09/iphone_to_interface_with_playstation_3_blu_ray_playback.html
"iPhone to interface with PlayStation 3 Blu-ray playback"
Looks like Bluetooth remote control of the PS3 may be coming to the iPhone. Interesting.
Conan450 04-09-08, 07:04 PM My IR2BT just arrived today, easy setup and flawless lag free control of the PS3
I was lucky enough to catch one before they sold out, Unit #143,
davidag02 04-09-08, 09:59 PM I noticed from reading the IR2BT forums, that a specific button sequence is required to turn off the PS3 using the IR2BT and a Harmony (or other universal IR remote).
How does this effect powering the PS3 off when controlling it as part of an "Activity" like on a Harmony? Is it still 1 button to turn off all my equipment?
I noticed from reading the IR2BT forums, that a specific button sequence is required to turn off the PS3 using the IR2BT and a Harmony (or other universal IR remote).
How does this effect powering the PS3 off when controlling it as part of an "Activity" like on a Harmony? Is it still 1 button to turn off all my equipment?
That is correct, it is a single button off as you move from activity to activity.
I noticed from reading the IR2BT forums, that a specific button sequence is required to turn off the PS3 using the IR2BT and a Harmony (or other universal IR remote).
How does this effect powering the PS3 off when controlling it as part of an "Activity" like on a Harmony? Is it still 1 button to turn off all my equipment?You can also set it up to NOT turn off when you leave the activity. That'll be up to you. If that's the case you can go to: "I want more control and options" when you confirm your setup of the activity in the Harmony 880 set-up and procede from there. (or some similar jargon).
BuyingaNewWhat?! 05-31-08, 09:34 AM Bruce deserves the PS gaming/media solution of the year award. For a nominal price and 15 mins of time, my universal and PS3 where working in perfect Harmony...880 Harmony that is :)
WhoMe14 05-31-08, 11:14 AM Anybody make an IR/Bluetooth remote yet? While this is neat, I think Im just gonna wait for that.
aymanme 05-31-08, 11:36 PM Anybody make an IR/Bluetooth remote yet? While this is neat, I think Im just gonna wait for that.
This has come up a couple of times and the answer is pretty much no. There was however, an unsubstantiated rumor that logitech was making one. The only device that uses bluetooth is the PS3 right now. That is why there are a couple of different external devices for IR control of PS3.
WhoMe14 05-31-08, 11:45 PM This has come up a couple of times and the answer is pretty much no. There was however, an unsubstantiated rumor that logitech was making one. The only device that uses bluetooth is the PS3 right now. That is why there are a couple of different external devices for IR control of PS3.
Thanks for the reply! Ill be keeping my fingers crossed for that.
bearfox 06-07-08, 11:25 PM The VAVE 100 universal remote has bluetooth, but is not shipping yet.
It's pricey, but they are taking pre-orders.
http://www.ricavision.com/vave100flashtour/vave100tour.html
Pre order from Amazon if you like....
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00169YM9O
WhoMe14 06-08-08, 12:58 AM Very cool lookin but a bit more than Id like to pay. Hopefully Logitech's offering is a little cheaper.
aymanme 06-08-08, 02:49 AM There isn't any indication though that it can control the PS3 -- and they don't list that as an item on the page of devices it can control. Having bluetooth is one thing, but speaking the Sony protocol is another. It seems at least on the surface that the bluetooth is used as a high speed interface to the PC so that you can stream video or whatever to the remote. I am not an authority on this device, but if there is some more info, I'll certainly drop the coin and preorder it.
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