IRCommand2 is IR (infrared) and X10 remote control software for the PC that enables you to control virtually any device that has a remote control. You can create device "panels", each of which can represent one of your devices or a virtual device. Then add command buttons to a device panel by dragging any of a variety of button shapes, sizes, and types from the button kit. Train the new command buttons using a remote control, or program them with macro sequences.

IRCommand2 can also listen for and respond to IR and X10 commands from remote controls. Simply program a "trigger" into a command button using a remote control and that command button will then execute whenever IRCommand2 receives that trigger. X10 triggers can wake the PC from standby.

IRCommand2 is expandable via its COM+ interface. This interface allows external programs, including VB and VBA, to link to command buttons you have created in order to control devices.

The unregistered download runs in a "demo" mode that has some functional and capacity limitations, but that allows you to thoroughly evaluate the software before buying. Specifically, demo mode limits the number of device panels and buttons that can be created and does not support the COM+ interface or printing. By registering, you receive a key and ID that removes all limitations. The registered version will support a virtually unlimited number of device panels and buttons.

IRCommand2 currently works with the Actisys IR200L IR control head and the CM11A/HD11A interface for X10 control. Written in C++, IRCommand2 is efficient and, unlike some other similar programs, it does not put a strain on your PC's resources and works well with most other programs. If you currently own an IR200L then you should definitely check out this software. If not, the download documentation tells you where you can get this relatively inexpensive hardware. IRCommand2 will also run without hardware to allow evaluation of the user interface features.