I'm trying to figure out how to connect my infrared (IR) extender, which has a male USB plug, to an older receiver that only has HDMI outputs. The receiver is in a cabinet, and I bought the IR extender so I can use the remote without opening the cabinet door. I understand that I need to keep the cabinet door closed but need to somehow connect this IR extender to the receiver. Any ideas?
3 Answers
Definitely check out IR repeaters! They usually consist of a receiver that goes outside the cabinet and an emitter that sticks near your device's IR sensor. You can find these online—you just need to search for 'IR repeaters' and look for something in the $30-$60 range. Just keep in mind that some lower-end models might have a slight delay in signal response.
It sounds like you're a bit confused about the connection types. USB plugs and HDMI ports aren't compatible, so connecting an IR extender directly to an HDMI input won't work. If you're trying to control your receiver with a remote while the cabinet is closed, you might need to invest in a dedicated IR repeater. These devices let you control your electronics from outside the cabinet without needing a direct line of sight.
Thanks for the clarification! Are there specific models you'd recommend for the IR repeater?
If you can provide the model of your receiver, we could check its manual for compatibility or other features. Some older receivers use a standard headphone jack for IR connections, which could be another option if available. But if not, you’ll want to stick with an IR repeater setup for a smooth experience.

Awesome, I’ll look into those! Thanks for the tips!