Abstract: An apparatus and a method for providing remote control capability involves transmitting IR and RF signals in a time multiplexed manner. The present apparatus comprises an input device, an IR signal transmitter, a RF signal transmitter and a controller operatively coupled to the input device, the IR signal transmitter and the RF signal transmitter. The controller generates and applies the IR and RF signals to the respective signal transmitters in time multiplexed manner. The IR and RF signals may be transmitted using different protocols without significantly increasing the computing capacity of the controller as compared to a controller of a remote control device which transmits only one type of remote control signal.

Abstract: A communications system for transmitting and receiving remote control messages in an electronic remote control system. The present communications system uses a remote control message protocol which is particularly suitable for transmitting RF remote control messages with IR remote control messages in a time multiplexed fashion, wherein the RF remote control messages are transmitted during the pause intervals between IR remote control message transmission intervals. The present remote control message protocol includes a start sequence, comprising a MARK pulse and a SPACE of about equal duration, followed by a plurality of data fields. Each data field ends with an End of Field marker and the remote control message ends with an End of Message marker.