iRed is the latest development of tin:b Software, Germany. Now every Mac with Mac OS X and a free USB port can be controlled via infrared. In combination with the infrared hardware IRTrans the Mac is capable of not only receiving but also sending infrared signals. In fact, the Mac becomes a universal remote control.
Berlin, November 17, 2004. From now on iRed is available for download. iRed brings features to the Mac that were already available for Linux- and Windows-based computers. iRed is a software for using the USB hardware IRTrans. In combination with iRed the Mac can be controlled with any infrared remote control.
The iTunes Music System
The software iRed processes received infrared signals and can execute AppleScripts. Since almost any Mac OS X application is compatible with AppleScript, iRed can control hundreds of applications. For example the MP3 player iTunes on the Mac can now be controlled just the same way as a usual hi-fi system.
iRed comes with a basic suite of AppleScripts for selected applications like iTunes, or Keynote. Of course, for any received infrared signal arbitrary AppleScripts can be created. So, controlling a presentation in Keynote or PowerPoint is now easily possible.
The Control Center for the Digital Life
Since IRTrans and iRed can send all infrared signals just like a universal remote control, even more ways of using the Mac is now possible. With one command, the Mac can be triggered to send a couple of infrared commands to other devices.
For example, triggered by a single command from a remote control, iRed can send commands to switch on the beamer, open the screen, adjust the volume, and let the Mac play a movie.
Your Versatile Remote Control
Almost all types of infrared remotes are supported. iRed is capable of learning all their command sequences in order to replace them. The iRed software package already provides numerous pre-set virtual remote controls (VRC) with the codes from many vendors like Sony, Philips, Denon, Dual etc. More codes are in preparation for future releases.
The design of the interface is committed to the intuitive GUI of Mac OS X. Creating custom virtual remote controls is very easy, almost just like painting buttons in a drawing application.
The current version 1.3 is provided for the use with IRTrans. It is planned to support other infrared hardware in near future. Until 1st of December 2004 iRed can be used free of charge, after this date it is shareware and will cost USD 25.
If you purchase an IRTrans module, you'll get the iRed license for free!
