Home electronics infrared is a whole different beast from data infrared. They operate in two different bands. Which is not to say that an excellent learning remote might not process both. Here are some good references.
http://www.irda.org/use/faq.asp
http://www.irda.org/use/sharesoft.asp
I've had great success o WebPlayer with the Packard Bell FastMedia remote, which includes a complete mouse function. They're $12 or less, surplus, at computer fairs, and the supply seems infinite, which is why I recommend them highly.
