September 27th, 2010: Schmartz releases PS3IR-1000 Virtual PS3 Controller software

One of the unique features of the PS3IR-1000 is its ability to accept commands via USB. This has been a feature from the very beginning of the PS3IR-1000. Our setup utility already offers a virtual BD remote that supports all of the PS3 remote commands, with the addition of Power On/Off and user macros.

However, the setup utility does not support voice recognition software, such as Dragon Naturally Speaking. To address this issue, Schmartz has released its new Virtual PS3 Controller software that can be used with Dragon Naturally Speaking. Now you can control your PS3 using voice commands! No other infrared adapter for the PS3 offers this functionality!

Once again, the PS3IR-1000 becomes the standard imitated by everyone else. We are fine with that, since imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.

June 7th, 2010: Schmartz releases PS3IR-1000 firmware version 1.7

As part of continuously improving its PS3IR-1000, Schmartz has released firmware version 1.7. This new version is a major update to the PS3IR-1000 firmware and its software utility. Most of the changes have been made “under the hood” to improve stability, reliability, performance, and maintainability. Most of these changes will not be apparent to the casual user (unless you are a current macro user).

The macro interface is totally rewritten and is incompatible with previous macros. The new interface features programming by pressing buttons on a virtual remote to enter your macro commands. The facility to edit macros is vastly improved making it more attractive to use this feature. Any macros you currently have will have to be rewritten manually after this upgrade.

This utility automatically checks if you need to upgrade the firmware as soon as the PS3IR-1000 is detected. There is no “Check Firmware” button anymore. The look and feel of the software utility have been streamlined. The updated virtual remote windows make the buttons easier to locate and understand; and the macro feature is reorganized to a separate tab (rather than a button). The status bar is reorganized into two portions (a message portion and a status portion) making it a more logical way to communicate overall information to the user.

March 19th, 2010: Schmartz moves manufacturing to Texas

In an effort to support the local economy, Schmartz is proud to announce that it has moved most of its manufacturing to Texas. This change will improve product yields, reliability, and quality control, although it will slightly raise prices.

As a result of this move, the wireless infrared adapters now include a USB charger, and the PS3IR-1000 includes the Power Sensing cable. These accessories were previously sold separately. The USB charger has undergone several rigorous quality control tests, including surviving being short-circuited for an entire week with no damage.

The new kits feature improved instructions, and consumer-friendly packaging. The improved instructions are also part of Schmartz’ effort to support our economy; the instructions are printed in the United States. Also, the consumer-friendly packaging is very easy to open, and is partly made of recycled material.

March 18th, 2010: Schmartz launches new website

After many months of design and planning, Schmartz is proud to launch its new website. It features a cleaner look, with easy navigation and easy to find information. It is powered by Amazon WebStore, which allows existing Amazon customers to use their accounts while shopping with Schmartz.

The website also features an improved checkout process and easier order tracking. As usual, Schmartz contact information and policies are easy to find, and the irreverent attitude remains.