First, I have a Harmony 890 remote and a Yamaha 5990 AVR. I have Zone 2 for the AVR set up as a separate device on the 890. Zone 2 powers 2 outdoor speakers. I have an activity set up called "Patio" which turns on only Zone 2 on the AVR and the CD player and starts the CD. I frequently click "Patio" and go outside while the kids watch their stuff on the TV (the one controlled by the 890). When doing that however, the TV turns off. I'd like to select "Patio" without turning off the television or any other components. Is that possible?

I'd also like to be able to turn off "Patio" without affecting the other components. Is that possible?

Second, I have my computer connected to the AVR and I'd like to control that using the 890. What hardware/software do you need for the computer to allow the 890 to control the computer?

Thanks.

Go to your patio activity options and select "leave unused components on" and it won't turn off the TV.

As for trying to control the PC with an IR remote, you'll have less headaches if you go outside and bang your head against a brick wall for about 10 minutes. But if you must, you'll need an IR receiver and software package - several have been discussed here before so try doing a search. And don't say I didn't warn you......

Ah! IRTrans hardware and iRed software work like a dream for IR control of a computer. IRTrans works on both PC's and Macs and receives and transmits IR signals.

iRed is a work of sheer genius that tags IR signals to execute any keyboard command, keystroke combination and even whole program automation commands such as AppleScript on a computer and can also transmit IR signals back out to other pieces of kit if necessary. It makes IR computer control a piece of cake and is a perfect fit with Harmony remotes. I can tag a signal from my Harmony to open any application on my Mac and control any keyboard command associated with it. I'm working on controlling the mouse next using the direction keys.

Bad news for PC owners is that iRed is only available for Macs.