FLIRC USB Setup Guide: Program Any IR Remote to Work With Your HTPC

The FLIRC USB receiver represents one of the cleverest solutions in the HTPC world: a tiny device that translates infrared remote signals into keyboard commands your computer understands. This simple concept delivers extraordinary flexibility—you can use virtually any IR remote to control your home theater PC.

Whether you have a favorite old remote, want to consolidate devices with a universal remote, or simply prefer the feel of a traditional controller, FLIRC makes it possible. This comprehensive guide walks you through everything from initial setup to advanced programming techniques.

What Is FLIRC and How Does It Work?

Understanding FLIRC requires understanding how HTPCs process input:

Traditional Keyboard Control: Media center software like Kodi, Plex, and MediaPortal respond to keyboard shortcuts. Press the spacebar, and playback pauses. Press the arrow keys, and you navigate menus. This keyboard-centric design makes sense—computers expect keyboard input.

The FLIRC Solution: FLIRC acts as a translator. When you press a button on your infrared remote, FLIRC receives the IR signal and converts it to a keyboard command your computer recognizes. To your HTPC, it appears as though someone pressed a key on a keyboard, even though you're actually using a remote control.

Why This Matters:

• Universal Compatibility: Any software that accepts keyboard shortcuts works with FLIRC
• Remote Flexibility: Use any IR remote you prefer
• No Drivers: FLIRC appears as a standard HID keyboard device
• Cross-Platform: Works with Windows, Mac, Linux, and even some game consoles

FLIRC USB vs. Other HTPC Remote Solutions

Solution	Remote Flexibility	Software Support	Setup Complexity	Cost
FLIRC USB	Any IR remote	Universal	Low	~$23
Pre-programmed Remotes	Limited	Specific apps	Low-Medium	$15-50
Air Mouse Remotes	Included only	Universal	Low	$20-40
Keyboard/Mouse	N/A	Universal	None	$20+
Smartphone Apps	Phone only	Limited	Medium	Free-$10

FLIRC occupies a unique position: infinite remote flexibility with universal software support at a reasonable price.

What You'll Need

Before beginning the setup process, gather these essentials:

Required:

• FLIRC USB receiver
• Computer (Windows, Mac, or Linux)
• IR remote control (any IR remote will work)
• FLIRC software (free download)

Optional but Recommended:

• USB extension cable (helps with IR reception)
• Multiple remotes (for different rooms/users)
• Universal remote (for consolidated control)

Choosing a Remote for FLIRC

Virtually any infrared remote works with FLIRC, but some considerations improve your experience:

Good Choices:

• Remotes you already own and like
• Universal remotes (Harmony, SofaBaton, etc.)
• Media center remotes designed for other platforms
• Remotes with good button layouts and comfortable ergonomics
• Remotes with buttons you can press without looking

Avoid:

• RF-only remotes (they don't transmit IR)
• Bluetooth remotes (same issue)
• Remotes with worn or failing buttons
• Remotes with missing batteries or corrosion

Pro Tip: Old cable box remotes, TV remotes from previous sets, and universal remotes from discount stores all work excellently with FLIRC.

Step 1: Download and Install FLIRC Software

The FLIRC software provides the interface for programming your remote. It's free and available for all major operating systems.

Windows Installation

1. Visit the FLIRC website downloads page
2. Download the Windows installer
3. Run the installer and follow prompts
4. Allow the software to install drivers if requested
5. Launch FLIRC from the Start menu

macOS Installation

1. Download the macOS version from FLIRC's website
2. Open the downloaded DMG file
3. Drag FLIRC to your Applications folder
4. Launch FLIRC from Applications
5. Permit the app to control your system when prompted

Linux Installation

FLIRC provides packages for common distributions:

Ubuntu/Debian:

sudo apt-get install flirc

Arch Linux:

sudo pacman -S flirc

Fedora:

sudo dnf install flirc

Alternatively, download the standalone binary and run it directly.

Step 2: Connect FLIRC USB

Insert the FLIRC USB receiver into an available USB port on your computer:

Recommended:

• Use a USB port on the same side as your viewing position
• If using a USB extension, position the receiver where it has a clear line-of-sight to your seating area
• Avoid USB hubs when possible—direct connections are more reliable

FLIRC Software Detection: When you launch the FLIRC software with the device connected, you'll see:

• Device status showing "Connected"
• Current firmware version
• A visual representation of the remote control you'll program

If the software doesn't detect the device:

• Try a different USB port
• Check if the device appears in your system's device list
• Restart the FLIRC software
• Look for USB power indicators (some FLIRC models have LED lights)

Step 3: Understanding the FLIRC Interface

The FLIRC software presents a clean interface with several key areas:

Main Programming View

The central display shows a generic remote control layout with various buttons:

• Arrow keys (directional navigation)
• Playback controls (play, pause, stop, skip)
• Function keys (F1-F12 mappings)
• Number pad (for channel entry and numeric input)

Clicking a button on this virtual remote prepares FLIRC to learn the corresponding IR signal from your physical remote.

Menu Options

Controllers: Pre-configured profiles for common media software Keyboard: Direct keyboard key assignment Full Keyboard: Access to all keyboard keys Advanced: Settings for sensitivity, noise, and firmware updates

Status Indicators

The software displays real-time information:

• IR signal detection (shows when FLIRC receives any IR signal)
• Current button being programmed
• Error messages for troubleshooting

Step 4: Program Basic Navigation Controls

Start with the fundamental navigation controls. These mappings give you directional movement and selection capability—all you need for basic menu navigation.

Programming Arrow Keys

1. Click the Up Arrow button in the FLIRC software
2. The status bar shows "Waiting for button..."
3. Point your IR remote at the FLIRC receiver
4. Press the button you want to use for "Up" on your remote
5. FLIRC confirms with a success message
6. Repeat for Down, Left, and Right arrows

Pro Tip: Many users prefer to use a remote's directional pad (D-pad) for these functions, as it matches the intuitive layout most media interfaces expect.

Programming the Select/OK Button

1. Click the OK or Enter button in FLIRC
2. Point your remote and press your desired select button
3. FLIRC maps this to the Enter key

Common Mappings:

• Use the center button on your remote's D-pad
• Use a dedicated "OK" or "Select" button
• Some users map number "1" or another easy-to-find button

Verifying Basic Navigation

Before continuing, test your work:

1. Open a file manager or web browser
2. Use your remote's directional buttons
3. Verify cursor/selection moves appropriately
4. Test the OK button to confirm selection works

If any direction doesn't respond, reprogram that specific button.

Step 5: Program Playback Controls

Media playback controls are essential for any HTPC. These typically map to standard keyboard shortcuts that media software universally recognizes.

Standard Playback Mappings

Remote Button	FLIRC Maps To	Common Function
Play	P or Space	Play media
Pause	Space	Pause playback
Play/Pause	Space	Toggle play/pause
Stop	X or S	Stop playback
Skip Forward	Right Arrow or F	Skip ahead
Skip Backward	Left Arrow or B	Skip back
Fast Forward	F or >	Fast forward
Rewind	R or <	Rewind

Programming Steps:

1. Click the corresponding button in FLIRC's interface
2. Point your remote and press the desired button
3. Confirm successful programming
4. Test in your media software

Software-Specific Considerations

Different media applications use different keyboard shortcuts:

Kodi Default Shortcuts:

• Space = Play/Pause
• X = Stop
• Arrow Left/Right = Seek backward/forward
• F = Fast forward
• R = Rewind

Plex Media Player:

• Space = Play/Pause
• S = Stop
• Arrow Left/Right = Seek
• G = Go back

VLC Media Player:

• Space = Play/Pause
• S = Stop
• Arrow Left/Right = Seek
• F = Fast forward

Check your software's keyboard shortcuts and program FLIRC accordingly. The FLIRC software includes preset profiles for popular applications.

Step 6: Program Volume Controls

Volume control requires special consideration because it often involves integration with your audio system rather than just software control.

Software Volume Control

Program FLIRC to send volume control keystrokes:

Function	Common Keys
Volume Up	Up arrow, +, or media volume up key
Volume Down	Down arrow, -, or media volume down key
Mute	M or media mute key

To use media keys:

1. In FLIRC software, select "Full Keyboard"
2. Choose the multimedia key functions
3. Program your remote's volume buttons

Advanced: Integrating TV/Stereo Volume

If you use a universal remote:

1. Program your universal remote to control TV/receiver volume via IR directly
2. Use FLIRC mappings for computer volume as a secondary control
3. This allows independent control or synchronized volume changes

Step 7: Advanced Programming Techniques

Once you've mastered basic FLIRC programming, explore these advanced capabilities.

Custom Keyboard Shortcuts

FLIRC can map remote buttons to any keyboard key or combination:

1. Open "Full Keyboard" view
2. Click your desired key (or use modifier+key combinations)
3. Press the remote button to assign

Useful Custom Mappings:

• Home: Map to keyboard Home key (returns to menu start)
• Back: Map to Escape or Backspace
• Menu: Map to M or context menu key
• Info: Map to I (shows media information in Kodi/Plex)
• Subtitle: Map to S or L
• Fullscreen: Map to F11

Long Press Actions

FLIRC supports long-press differentiation, assigning different actions to short and long button presses:

1. In FLIRC software, enable "Long Press" in settings
2. Program short press normally
3. Then program long press to a different key
4. Adjust timing threshold as needed

Common Long Press Uses:

• Short press: Navigate up, Long press: Page up
• Short press: Play/Pause, Long press: Stop
• Short press: Select, Long press: Context menu

Controller Profiles

FLIRC includes pre-built profiles for popular software:

1. Select "Controllers" menu
2. Choose your media software (Kodi, Boxee, etc.)
3. FLIRC automatically maps remote buttons to appropriate keys
4. Only program buttons not covered by the profile

This approach saves time and ensures correct mappings for complex applications.

Step 8: Configure Sleep and Wake Functions

One of FLIRC's powerful features is the ability to wake your HTPC from sleep mode using your remote.

Enabling Wake Function

Windows:

1. Open Device Manager
2. Find FLIRC under "Keyboards" or "Human Interface Devices"
3. Right-click → Properties
4. Power Management tab
5. Check "Allow this device to wake the computer"

macOS:

• FLIRC wake function works automatically with sleep mode

Linux:

sudo sh -c "echo enabled > /sys/bus/usb/devices/*/power/wakeup"

(Adjust for your specific USB device path)

Programming the Power Button

1. Map a remote button to the keyboard power key
2. In FLIRC software, use Full Keyboard mode
3. Select the power function
4. Program your preferred remote button

This allows your remote to sleep and wake your HTPC.

Step 9: Troubleshooting Common Issues

Remote Not Detected/Not Learning

Symptoms: FLIRC software doesn't recognize button presses

Solutions:

• Ensure you're pointing the remote directly at the FLIRC receiver
• Check remote batteries
• Try a different USB port
• Verify the remote transmits IR (some phones have IR cameras that show IR light)
• Test with a different remote to confirm FLIRC works

Button Already Programmed Error

Symptoms: FLIRC says button is already assigned

Solutions:

• Clear the button: In FLIRC software, right-click the button and select "Clear"
• Or clear entire remote: Settings → Clear
• Then reprogram the button

Mapped Keys Don't Work in Software

Symptoms: FLIRC shows successful programming, but buttons don't work in your application

Solutions:

• Verify the software supports keyboard shortcuts
• Check what keyboard shortcuts your software uses
• Test by pressing the actual keyboard key—if it doesn't work, the problem isn't FLIRC
• Ensure FLIRC isn't in "limited" mode (check settings)

Interference or Erratic Behavior

Symptoms: Random inputs, missed commands, or double commands

Solutions:

• Reduce IR noise: Some LCD/plasma screens emit IR that interferes
• Move FLIRC away from other IR sources
• Adjust sensitivity in FLIRC settings (Advanced → Noise Canceler)
• Use a USB extension to position FLIRC optimally

Duplicate Commands

Symptoms: Single button press produces multiple actions

Solutions:

• Enable "Inter-key delay" in FLIRC settings
• Increase the delay value until behavior stops
• Some cheap remotes have "bounce" issues—try a different remote

Step 10: Backup and Restore Your Configuration

After investing time in programming, protect your work:

Saving Configuration

1. In FLIRC software, select File → Save Configuration
2. Choose a location and meaningful filename
3. Include date and remote type in the filename for easy reference

Restoring Configuration

1. Select File → Load Configuration
2. Navigate to your saved file
3. FLIRC uploads the configuration to the USB device

Use Cases:

• Migrating to a new computer
• Recovering from accidental clears
• Quickly switching between different remote configurations

FLIRC Setup for Popular HTPC Applications

Kodi Configuration

Kodi includes extensive keyboard shortcut support, making it an excellent FLIRC partner.

Recommended Kodi Mappings:

Remote Button	Key	Kodi Function
D-pad Up	Up	Navigate up
D-pad Down	Down	Navigate down
D-pad Left	Left	Navigate left
D-pad Right	Right	Navigate right
OK/Select	Enter	Select item
Back	Escape	Go back
Menu	M	Context menu
Play	Space	Play
Pause	Space	Pause
Stop	X	Stop
Skip Forward	Right	Skip forward
Skip Back	Left	Skip backward
Volume Up	+	Volume up
Volume Down	-	Volume down
Mute	F8	Mute
Info	I	Information
Subtitles	L	Subtitles
Home	Home	Main menu

Kodi also provides a FLIRC keymap on their wiki with optimized settings.

Plex Setup

Plex Media Player uses different shortcuts than Kodi:

Remote Button	Key	Plex Function
Play/Pause	Space	Toggle playback
Stop	S	Stop
Skip Forward	Right	Seek forward
Skip Back	Left	Seek backward
Home	G	Return to home
Back	Backspace	Go back

Emby/Jellyfin

These servers typically use web-based players with standard keyboard shortcuts that map easily to FLIRC.

Optimizing FLIRC Performance

USB Placement

IR reception quality depends significantly on positioning:

• Direct line-of-sight: Best performance
• Front-facing USB ports: Often better than rear ports
• USB extensions: Allow optimal positioning away from interference
• Avoid: Positioning near IR-emitting displays or bright lights

Sensitivity Settings

FLIRC's advanced settings include sensitivity controls:

• Lower sensitivity: Reduces interference but requires more precise aiming
• Higher sensitivity: Works at wider angles but may pick up noise
• Default setting: Works well for most situations
• Adjust incrementally and test in your environment

Firmware Updates

FLIRC periodically releases firmware updates:

1. Connect FLIRC and open software
2. Select Advanced → Firmware
3. Check for updates
4. Follow update instructions carefully
5. Re-program buttons if required (some updates clear memory)

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can FLIRC control multiple computers?

No, each FLIRC USB only pairs with one computer at a time. However, you can use the same remote for multiple FLIRC devices—just program each FLIRC identically. When you press a button, all FLIRC receivers in range will respond, so they should be in different rooms.

Does FLIRC work with RF remotes?

No, FLIRC only works with infrared (IR) remotes. RF (radio frequency) remotes use a completely different technology. If you have an RF remote, you'll need an IR remote to use with FLIRC.

Can I use FLIRC with a Harmony remote?

Absolutely! Harmony remotes are excellent partners for FLIRC. Program FLIRC to recognize Harmony's IR commands, and you can control your entire entertainment system from one remote.

How many buttons can FLIRC learn?

FLIRC can store approximately 160 unique button commands, far more than any remote has buttons. You won't run out of programming capacity.

Will FLIRC work through walls or cabinets?

No, infrared requires line-of-sight. FLIRC must "see" the remote's IR signal. For hidden equipment, use an IR repeater system that routes IR signals through walls/cabinets to the FLIRC receiver.

Does FLIRC work with game consoles?

FLIRC works with PlayStation 3 and some other devices that accept standard USB keyboard input. It does not work with Xbox or Nintendo Switch. Check FLIRC's compatibility list for specifics.

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Start Controlling Your HTPC Today

The FLIRC USB receiver transforms any infrared remote into a powerful HTPC controller through a beautifully simple concept: translating IR signals into keyboard commands. Whether you're repurposing an old remote, consolidating with a universal controller, or simply prefer the tactile feel of traditional remotes, FLIRC provides the flexibility to control your media experience your way.

This guide covered everything from basic setup to advanced programming techniques. The skills you've learned will serve you well as you customize your HTPC control to match your exact preferences.