I have never used a pocket pc, but am planning to buy one now for various purposes. One of those, of course, is as a remote control. From my initial research I'll likely go the Ipaq/HP Jordana route.

What exactly do I need from there to use this as a remote? My components sit on a rack only about 3 or 4 feet to my side, so I don't need too much range. I'll get an IR extender if I need one in the future.

I was looking at "TV Remote Controller 3.0", and if this works well, it looks like the best solution given the ability to use CCFs and thus be able to program with Prontoedit. However, having no experience with Pocket PCs, I don't have the foggiest idea how I would get this onto a pocket PC (which I haven't even purchased yet). So my first dilemma would be getting that program onto the pocket PC. After that I'm curious how I could make a CCF with Prontoedit and then get that onto the pocket PC.

Again, all of this confusion stems from my lack of knowledge on pocket PCs in general. Any info would be greatly appreciated.

you need a PC. :-)

The PDA (whatever kind, Ipaq, palm, visor, Jornada....) usually (and 99% sure, always) comes with a cradle or some kind of connector for the PC. You use your PC to download info, and new programs to the PDA.

ProntoEdit is a piece of software developed by Philips to program their remote control, and you can find a copy of it in the file section on this site.

Most people that have used a PDA as a remote and PDA (dual function) sooner or latter tend to change their minds on it. The needs of a PDA (carry it with you....) are different then a remote (in front of TV), so if you want it to replace many remotes or that there is more then one person in the house or... then you will need two PDAs

Anthony,

Thanks for the response. It's becoming clearer, though I'll still have many more questions I'm sure. Fortunately there are some great Pocket PC forums around and I'll try my luck there for more in-depth questions.

I actually own a Pronto right now, and have programmed it extensively with Prontoedit, but I've hungered for the ProntoPro since it came out, and given that a PDA can do what a Prontopro can do, plus so much more, I feel it's time for the purchase.

I couldn't download the TV Controller 3.0 from that website... do I need to have a PDA connected for that? I ask that because it said something about Windows CE as the reason I could not download.

I don't know, I don't have a pocket PC to give it a try. Just have a Visor, and never used it as a remote. Just interested in what is happening (never know where the next coolest gadget will come from).

You shouldn't have any problem downloading the software but you need to load it onto a PocketPC device, like the IPAQ or Jornada. It is really simple once you have one connected to your computer and most programs setup file will automatically install on your PDA.

You can buy the iPAQ H3635 which includes a CompactFlash sleeve for about $325. It has a very nice color screen.

Two of them are still cheaper than one color Pronto.

You do not need a Pocket PC connected to download the software. Just save it to a space on your hard drive where you can find it again. Be sure to select "save" when it asks you what you want to do.

When you get an Ipaq (or whatever) it will come with a cable to connect to your computer. Before you connect your Ipaq to the computer you will install Activesync on your computer. This is the program that handles the communication between your desktop and Ipaq.

It will sync your Outlook, Word files you choose, Excel files you choose, email, etc. to your Ipaq. It is also what installs new programs to the Ipaq.

Once you have installed Activesync (AS) and connected the Ipaq for the first time, all you will need to do is double click on the Remote Control Software icon you saved and it will automatically install on your Ipaq. AS does this.

Follow the on-screen instructions.

If you need help once you get started post here or email me.

Good Luck!

PS I got my wife an Ipaq 3635 with the PPC 2002 upgrade with the box and all included items, CF Sleeve, carry case, etc., on Ebay for $225.00

I got my 3765 NIB for $320.00 on EBay.

This message was edited by mason hatcher on 06/15/02 00:18.28.