If you thought that an infra-red (IR) controller was only good for zapping TV channels then read on. This novel circuit uses a micro controller to decode RC5 format IR signals and put them to a better use...This compact circuit is designed to allow a model car, boat or robot etc. to be controlled from a handheld remote controller that would normally be used to control a TV, audio amplifier or satellite receiver. The only requirement is that the IR remote controller must send control messages using the RC5 format.At the heart of the circuit is a COP8782 micro controller from National Semiconductor, this interprets the infra-red signals and sends out proportional signals to control a model servo for steering. It also has a MOSFET bridge circuit to drive a motor for forward, stop and reverse functions.