A few days ago, I demonstrated an Arduino Duemilanove circuit that would receive keypresses from a TV remote control. Well, I had so much fun with it that I made the code more advanced, and I made a new video demonstrating what I did. Watch the video, download the code, and let me know what changes you made.
After watching the video, you’ll know what to expect. The next step is to get my Arduino sketch, which is available right here:
Next up, you need an IR Receiver. I use the RadioShack 38 kHz IR Receiver Module (part number 276-640). This costs $4, and it’s in almost any RadioShack I’ve ever been to (even the small ones that look like they only sell cellphones and toys). I know, I know – RadioShack has a reputation for selling shoddy parts, but whatever. I’ve only been burned once, and it’s worth it for the instant gratification of getting what I need without waiting for shipping.
Next, you need a solderless breadboard. I recommend the Arduino Protoshield, but since I haven’t assembled mine, I am using my breadboard (RS part number 276-169). I’m not sure if this is still for sale, so please let me know if you have any luck getting one.
Finally, you’ll need some small wires, some LEDs, and some resistors. Get two LEDs (the cheapest you can find), two 10K-ohm resistors, and a 220 ohm resistor.
Oh, and you’ll need a remote control. I’m using the Sony RMT-V202. This is up to you, and I can’t promise that my code will work unmodified with any other remote. However, I can tell you that my code is an excellent starting point, since it will give you all of the IR timings that you need to understand what your remote is “saying.” Remember how the video had a “debug mode” for looking at the timing of the IR pulses? This is your key to adapting the code to any remote, whatsoever.
If you need help understanding how to use a breadboard with the Arduino, I recommend watching the following video. The video demonstrates, in somewhat excruciating detail, how to build a totally different project with the Arduino. It’s kindof fun to watch, anyway…
How-to Tuesday: Fun with the Arduino Starter Kit from make magazine on Vimeo.
So, have fun! Also, I want to hear about your experiences using my code and video to play with your Arduino.
