The Adafruit IRKey converts infrared remote control signals into USB keyboard input. Plug the compact board into any USB-A port and it appears as a standard USB keyboard — no drivers required on any operating system. The bundled 21-button mini IR remote lets you control media players, presentations, and more from across the room.

The onboard ATtiny85 microcontroller supports two modes: ASCII mode (default) sends standard keyboard characters, while Multimedia mode sends media keys for volume control, play/pause, and track navigation. Switch between modes with a long-press of the onboard button.

Key Features

• IR to USB Keyboard – Converts IR remote signals to USB keypresses, no drivers needed
• 21-Button Remote Included – Volume, play/pause, navigation arrows, number keys, and more
• Two Output Modes – ASCII mode for standard characters; Multimedia mode for media control keys
• Universal Compatibility – Works with any computer, laptop, or tablet with a USB-A port
• ATtiny85 Microcontroller – Reprogrammable firmware for custom key mapping
• Compact USB Dongle – Plugs directly into a USB-A port

Key Mapping

• Vol−/Vol+ – '-'/'=' (ASCII) or Volume Down/Up (Multimedia)
• Play/Pause – Space (ASCII) or Play/Pause (Multimedia)
• Setup – Escape (ASCII) or Menu (Multimedia)
• Stop/Mode – 'x' (ASCII) or Stop (Multimedia)
• Arrow Keys – Arrow keys (ASCII) or Volume/Track navigation (Multimedia)
• Enter/Save – Enter key in both modes
• 0–9 – Number keys in both modes

Ideal For

• Media centre and XBMC/Kodi remote control
• Presentation clickers for videos and slideshows
• Hands-free computer music and volume control
• Any USB device needing wireless keyboard input via IR

Package Contents

• 1× Adafruit IRKey USB Receiver
• 1× 21-Button Mini IR Remote

Resources

• IRKey Firmware (GitHub)
• Adafruit IRKey Guide