I'm trying to attach IrDA devices to my Debian Squeeze (2.6.30.1 kernel) machine.

I Have an IrDA keyboard (Microsoft Remote Keyboard for WinXP MCE v1.0, using RC6 API) and a Hauppage remote, also labeled RC6 - but to get as far as trying to grab their emissions, i need a working IrDA adapter.

Got hold of a DeLock USB adapter, identifying itself as ID 1685:0200 on USB.

First step must be getting the thing working in /dev, then second connecting it to something remote via LIRC.

But how do i verify it works? LIRC offers a gazillion profiles for remotes of all kinds, but this is obviously a chain of devices. So, first, i'll need to make the IrDA device work. But how?

bump. I have the same problem and posted on Ubuntu forums. Did you ever figure it out?

http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=1396231

Nope. In stead, i bought a Apple Wireless Keyboard - and that's a recommendable action, i can assure you.

Not only does the AWK use Bluetooth rather than IrDA, it's simply better!
Better build quality; this piece of hardware oozes 'cool'!
Better usability; mechanical construction is not only different, but different in a way that will most likely improve your writing speed. Difficult to explain why, but nonetheless...
Better physical design; it's so tiny - and yet so big. Unbelievably flat. Featherlight. Like most Apple designs, it leaves you thinking "Why didn't anyone think of this long ago?". Tactile keys with short travel and a rubbery surface - yet no ZX Spectrum rubberkeyboard likeliness at all. You'll *not* want to put it away, that's how good it feels.

And yes, it works with both Linux and Windows Vista. With Linux, it works out of the box ( i'd come to expect this ) including backspace/delete, on windoze it requires a small hack. No prob. See

http://www.kudzuworld.com/blogs/tech/20080101.en.aspx
http://code.google.com/p/uawks/

If one should want more keys or USB-sockets on their keyboard, Apple also sells wired versions with numeric keypad and USB connectivity.

Of course these keyboards are comparatively expensive. But some things in life need to be 'just right'. And working with this keyboard make me realize how much time i actually spend typing away on something 'not good enough'. Also, a good cordless mouse is important, and thus i'm currently using a Logitech MX Revolution - the one with the 'heavy' scroll-wheel. Also recommendable, especially if combined with a proper mat.

Actually, i've scheduled investing in a big, wired Apple keyboard, simply because the wireless version does not work at boot-time, leaving me unable to enter BIOS and do other system-maintenance stuff.