Hacking learned codes

Al Klappenberger · Post by **Al Klappenberger** » Thu Mar 13, 2008 10:07 am

Hi guys,

I am completely new to the JP1 world and to this forum. I have not been able to find an documentation on the IR.EXE program. It seems that everything is written in support of the KeyMap spreadsheet. I need help!

I have been able to download my OFA 8910 remote and look at the learned commands and the macros. I have a McIntosh MAC3 surround processor that is not supported. I contacted McIntosh and was generously given the codes for all their remotes. What I would like to do is add a key that activates the system calibration. The McIntosh remote doesn't have that key to "teach" the 8910. The SYS CAL function must be initiated from the front panel of the unit. I know the command is 0Fh. I want to duplicate another command, like maybe VOL+, which is 42H. That's 66 in base 10, but I can't figure how to change the code from 66 to 16 (0Fh) using ir.exe. I see the 66, I just can't change it. None of the numbers in the [edit] dialog box changes the code, yet copying these numbers and assigning them to another key will duplicate the key I copied. This implies that all the information is in the data to define the function of the key. Why can't I find the number in the data that corresponds to the actual key code? What am I missing?

Thanks, Al K

Post by **vickyg2003** » Thu Mar 13, 2008 10:28 am

I don't know of any way to change a learned signal. That IS what we use KM or RM for.

IR works with RM or KM to accomplish what you want to do. From that learned signal, you get the Protocol, Device, Subdevice.... and transfer that information to RM or KM. Then you fill in the information for all your functions into the function tab (make sure to note if that 66 was a efc or OBC) so you know how to enter your codes. You assign the functions to buttons, and an upgrade is created for you. You take that upgrade and add it as a new Device Code in IR. Its a simple cut and paste operation. Now you can assign it to a device button just like any of the predefined codes that you use for your other equipment.

Al Klappenberger · Post by **Al Klappenberger** » Thu Mar 13, 2008 10:59 am

Ok, now I know what I was missing! I have had the KM program up and looked at it briefly. Now that I know that it is what I need I'll start learning it.

Thanks!

Al K.

Post by **The Robman** » Thu Mar 13, 2008 8:13 pm

The first step is to learn the signals from the original remote to see what they look like and compare the data to the same buttons on the list that they gave you as this will tell us how to read the data that they provided.

Next, you would need to create an upgrade that replicates the original buttons and then you can add the new buttons to the upgrade.

If the original learned signals are not recognized by IR.exe, you'll need to post your IR file so that an expert can figure it out for you.

Al Klappenberger · Post by **Al Klappenberger** » Fri Mar 14, 2008 5:03 am

Rob,

I am starting to get the idea. I need to learn the KM spreadsheet program first. I am having a hard time getting my butt in gear on the project. Part of my problem is that I have no experience with spreadsheet programs. Add that to the complication of the workings of remotes and you get total confusion!

I'll finger it out eventually!

Al K.

mdavej · Post by **mdavej** » Fri Mar 14, 2008 6:24 am

RM may be a little easier for you if you are uncomfortable with spreadsheets, though most of the activities in each application are the same. Both RM and KM accomplish the same thing. You'll also need the Maps and Images from the Tools folder for RM to work properly.

Al Klappenberger · Post by **Al Klappenberger** » Fri Mar 14, 2008 6:45 pm

Guys,

I fingered it out! I was able to set up RM and add the MAC3 to AUX as an upgrade. Everything worked but the blasted SYS CAL button McIntosh left off its remote. As it turns out, the main unit must not have the ability to recognize that command at all! Waa - Waa!

The documentation "JP! - Just How Easy Is It?" helped a lot.

Thanks.

Al K.

Post by **The Robman** » Fri Mar 14, 2008 10:45 pm

Are you certain that you entered the code for the new button correctly? I think you should post the info so an expert can check your work.

Al Klappenberger · Post by **Al Klappenberger** » Sat Mar 15, 2008 6:17 am

Rob,

My father used to say "Only fools are sure". All I can say is that I think it doesn't work. When I first assigned the code (16), it selected CD1 input instead of activating the SYS CAL. I looked back at the code list McIntosh gave me and found it should have been 15, not 16 which truely is CD1 select. I fixed that mistake and uploaded it to the remote. It then did nothing! Next I assigned the same key to code 71, which simply turns the surround sound on/off. That DID work to do that as expected. I think those steps imply that the unit just can't operate the SYS CAL function remotely.

I would be happy to donate the upgrade to anyone what wants it though.

Al K.

Al Klappenberger · Post by **Al Klappenberger** » Sat Mar 15, 2008 6:30 am

Rob,

I uploaded the upgrade KM file to the file section. The file is Mcintosh_MAC3.txt. Please look at it to make sure I haven't made any totally laughable mistakes before anybody else tries to use it!

Thanks,

Al K.

BRiT · Post by **BRiT** » Sat Mar 15, 2008 9:52 am

Al, next time upload your file to the Diagnosis Area and include a link directly to it in your post. Ideally, the device upgrade section should contain only fully working upgrades.

To save others time in trying to find where exactly the file is, here's the link to the file he uploaded: http://www.hifi-remote.com/forums/dload ... le_id=5463

Al Klappenberger · Post by **Al Klappenberger** » Sat Mar 15, 2008 11:01 am

Brit,

Ok.. Sorry. I plead ignorance! I didn't know about the diagnosis area

Looking back at the file section it's obvious where the diagnosis section is. I should have seen it and all the other help stuff.

I hope it's ok. I think it is.

How about closing the file area to upload by anybody but moderators? That should stop novices like me from doing that.

Al K.

Mark Pierson · Post by **Mark Pierson** » Sat Mar 15, 2008 11:07 am

Al Klappenberger wrote:How about closing the file area to upload by anybody but moderators? That should stop novices like me for doing that.

That would defeat the purpose of having users upload their upgrades for others to use.

Instead, we kind of like the policy of giving most newbies a break, and then taking them out behind the woodshed on future violations!

Al Klappenberger · Post by **Al Klappenberger** » Sat Mar 15, 2008 12:21 pm

Mark,

Makes sense to me!

Al K.

Post by **The Robman** » Sat Mar 15, 2008 9:11 pm

Could you also post the list of codes that Mac gave you.