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Adding IrDA functionality to old computer

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First post, by Errius

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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?

"This all reminds me when i took the windows vista sticker thingy off my old laptop, and on my washing machine as a joke. A few days later said washing machine stopped working. I still think this cannot be a coincidence."

Reply 1 of 2, by Jo22

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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

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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

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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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Reply 2 of 2, by Errius

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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

"This all reminds me when i took the windows vista sticker thingy off my old laptop, and on my washing machine as a joke. A few days later said washing machine stopped working. I still think this cannot be a coincidence."

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