I have been successful in programming my Arduino to identify sets of digits transmitted from my Samsung remote. I used the excellent library at http://www.arcfn.com/2009/08/multi-protocol-infrared-remote-library.html as a starting point. I stripped out everything that wasn’t a raw number, and started logging what numbers came across the serial monitor as I pressed buttons.
I then created a Switch/Case statement that turns on (and off) particular LED’s when the appropriate button on the remote is pressed.
Not sure what sensor was in my VCR, but a TSOP4838 should work as well.
This can now be easily used to control motors, lights and other equipment (optically isolated SSR). I’ve uploaded a video to youtube showing how it all works.
Code and schematics are available at https://docs.google.com/folder/d/0ByRIq5k2wjcSd2FWa3FfQzBib1k/edit
For more detail: Arduino IR Receiver
