Can I control (send and recieve data) using my laptops IR port?

[UWBob]

I want to write and read from the IR port on my laptop, Does LabVIEW surport this? I would like to be able to capture IR remote controls, like a TV remote.
Thanks

[Holly_D]

LabVIEW 7.0 has IrDA functions. You can find them by searching the function palette for IrDA or looking under the Communications sub-palette. Also, there are some IrDA examples that shipped with LabVIEW. You can find them by opening the Example Finder and searching for IrDA.

[ScottieB]

Holly is right on, but I wanted to add that you are probably not going to be able to emulate a TV remote using your IrDA port. First of all, the VI's are designed to communicate using the IrDA protocol which is a much higher level protocol than most TV's are going to use of infra-red. Secondly, IrDA ports have problems when it comes to distances greater than a few feet.

Hope this helps.

Scott B.
Applications Engineer
National Instruments