[mythtv-users] PVR-150 IR receiver extension?

[Glen Sagers]

On Wednesday 24 October 2007 09:25:20 Mark Boyum wrote:
> On 10/24/07, Greg Foster <greg.foster at gmail.com> wrote:
> > On 10/23/07, Meatwad <meatwad.get.the.honeys at gmail.com> wrote:
> > > David Brodbeck wrote:
> > > > On Oct 23, 2007, at 4:31 PM, Mark Boyum wrote:
> > > >> Thanks for the suggestions and web link guys.  But I think my
> > > >> problem lies in a detail that I left out.  My particular pvr-150
> > > >> has the IR receiver / Blaster combo.  This seems to use a slightly
> > > >> different plug than a standard mini-jack headphone plug (more
> > > >> conductors and a different size).  I'm guessing that I'm S.O.L. and
> > > >> will need to invest in a USB receiver / remote.
> > > >
> > > > Do you have any soldering skills?  If it were me, I would cut the
> > > > existing cable in two and make an extension with my own connectors.
> > >
> > > This is a completely legitimate solution. It is done all the time in
> > > the trade. I've used all kinds of cable to move IR signals around but
> > > most often with CAT5 and STP. I solder them, use a dolphin crimp and
> > > then friction tape after folding a little bit of service loop into the
> > > mess to act as a strain relief.
> >
> > [snip]
> >
> > I'll second the mention of CAT5... extended my PVR350 IR receiver 50ft
> > with no issues.
> >
> > Greg
>
> I haven't soldered since junior high, but will give it a shot tonight.
> Figure it's worth trying before spending money.  Worse case, I mess it up
> and have to buy a new one anyhow.
>
> Thanks for the suggestions!
> -Mark

Might want to stop by your local Radio Shack/Frys/other electronics store and 
pick up some heat-shrink tubing - just be sure to get a really small size 
(1/8" or less) and a medium size (say approx 1/4-3/8 inch).  It makes your 
insulation much neater, more compact, and easier than electrical tape.

Glen

P.S. If you don't have a decent electronics store nearby, a home center or 
good hardware store would likely have it also.