I have an old computer with a little window for an infra-red sensor. There's nothing behind it, and never has been, even when the machine was new. I would like to get it functioning. The motherboard does NOT have an IrDA header. Were there dedicated IrDA expansion cards that added this functionality to computers that didn't have it? How did people do this?
Is this too much voodoo?
Well, years ago I bought a little irDA adaptor for USB.
I guess it was also possible to make own yourself using the RS232 and a some photo diodes/transistors or so.
Wait, here's a tutorial..
http://www.meblin.karoo.net/IrDAbuild.htm
If I understand correctly, there's supposed to be a 5pin header on the motherboard for irDA.
Maybe it can also connected (with some modifications) to the serial port headers ?
From a software point of view, it connects to serial ports, anyway..
Edit: There's also a kit beeing sold.
The schematics and required parts are mentioned here: https://www.voti.nl/ir-2/index_1.html
Edit: Never mind. 🙁 Seems like that this one isn't irDA compatible yet.
Maybe in the future the LIRC software will support it.
http://www.lirc.org/irda.html
Edit: Another edit, sorry. Fixed some typos, too.
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A while ago I saw an old motherboard that had its serial ports mounted internally. It looked like a custom modification. I didn't understand the reason for it at the time, but it was probably for connection of front panel devices like this
Is this too much voodoo?
