i just ordered MCE to set up a DIY HTPC/extender for the dvd server i'm building.

questions... how do i get a remote control signal to the HTPC? is there like a USB IR receiver?

also, what's a good remote? i'm looking at something by logitech. want to keep it simple.

components... 360 w/ hddvd, ps3/bd, comcast dvr, panny ae900u pj, and to be built htpc/extender. i know i probably won't be able to get something that will do both the ps3 and the 360, but i have the controllers right there, so that's not a huge deal.

thanks for the help!

If you go to the popular online auction website and do a search for "media center remote" you will find the official media center remote from microsoft. I bought just the USB-IR receiver alone and use my Logitech Harmony 550 then to control the media center. The Harmony 880 is a better remote that I wish I had bought instead for the money. Also, you will be able to control your 360 with the Harmony remotes getting rid of the remote clutter.

Steind

Edit: The PS3 will be the only controller that you will not be able to use a Harmony with. This is because the PS3 uses a bluetooth remote rather than IR. The rest of your components will work just fine with the Harmony line of remotes.

great, thanks!

so i need to buy the MS MCE remote to get the IR receiver? EDIT: wait, i see you don't need to do this.

i figured the PS3 would be like that... that's ok, blu-ray is an occasional view only.

thank you so much!

so i need to buy the MS MCE remote to get the IR receiver? EDIT: wait, i see you don't need to do this.


Unless you can find a seller that is only selling the IR receiver, then yes, you will have to get the MS MCE remote and receiver. If I remember, there wasn't much of a price difference when I got mine between the remote+receiver vs. just the receiver.