The Z100/150 keypads can be set to operate the HD with dipswitches and the MCU is programmed through Zone 1 and you can use an IR reciever to accomplish that. If you stick with the 1000 series cards you do not have to upgrade the software to 39xx and common brand components are included in the more recent software(Sony, Marantz Pioneer) and do not require you to teach IR but,,,, you are definately starting a new niche hobby. Have fun