How to make a wired input IR demodulator?
Something like a tsop31238 IR 38Khz receiver should do the trick (transmission range about 40m). Most handsets modulate the IR at 38kHz when sending out the code. Its a nice three legged device and contains all the circuitry you need to make an easy interface. (+V, 0V and data out).



To create a wired option from a standard universal control make a end cap to go over the controller. Inside the 'cap' is the IR 38kHz receiver wired to a suitable socket (say a 3 pin 3.5mm jack socket).