Abstract: A method and system for pairing a remote control transmitter and receiver includes associating an identification (ID) code with the transmitter. The transmitter includes a light generator for generating a light signal in order to perform a primary function which is visually detectable by a human operator. The light generator may be a laser pointer or a status indicator LED. The light generator is modulated to encode the identification code onto the light signal while the light generator is performing the primary function. The receiver includes a light signal detector such as an LED for receiving the light signal from the light generator. The receiver associates itself with the ID code contained in the light signal in order to pair the receiver with the transmitter. By being paired with the transmitter, the receiver acts upon transmitted command signals received from the transmitter.