A method and apparatus for controlling a plurality of infrared devices
(ICDs) is provided herein. A remote controller is used to generate an
optical signal for controlling a plurality of ICDs. The optical signal
generated by the remote controller is converted into an electrical signal
by an infrared repeater device. An implementation of such a system
includes a rotary mechanical switch to direct the electrical signal
generated by the infrared repeater device to a light emitting diode (LED)
located near one of the plurality of ICDs. The LED converts the
electrical signal into an optical signal and re-transmits the optical
signal to the one of the plurality of ICDs. The system allows controlling
the plurality of ICDs located in a remote location without having the
user commute closer to such ICDs.