Using laptop PC as a TV remote?

[BuelahWitch]

Does anyone know of software that can allow a PC to control a TV, standalone DVD player and a Playstation? I am asking for a friend of mine who has a daughter with mobility problems. Found this for the iPhone, which she does have: http://www.touchapptech.com/ But also interested to know if there is something similar for a windows 8.1 laptop. Thanks.

[PoliticAverse]

1. Those all probably need an infrared remote control.

Even if your laptop has infrared capability it is probably short range.
Posting the make and model of the laptop could help.

[BlueJazz]

2. I searched for one (Usb tv remote) but didn't find anything. Probably easier and cheaper to just...

...buy a Universal programmable remote. 20 bucks or so..
With the programmable remote it will control just about anything.

[BuelahWitch]

3. It does seem easier

After reading the first reply to my post I found this article:
http://science.opposingviews.com/turn-laptop-universal-remote-control-23355.html

But you're right, it seems like it would be easier just to buy a universal remote. There must be a reason my friend wants to program the PC to do this, but she's offline and I can't ask her. Would a universal remote work with a Playstation?

[BlueJazz]

4. I'm sure it would on certain models.

Ah...some of the better ones "Search" for the frequency of the desired unit to be used.

[BuelahWitch]

5. My friend is going to try the universal remote

I thought maybe there was a reason her daughter couldn't use one, but apparently it should work ok. It was just a situation where she was thinking about it too hard. Thanks to all here who helped me out!

[ChromeFoundry]

6. The same company offers an application for a Windows-based Universal IR Remote

Looks like it might be a bit of work to get configured:

http://www.touchapptech.com/yourpcasaremote.htm