Logitech Harmony 880 With Linux

Many Linux users are after lobbying hardware manufacturers for open-source graphics drivers or specifications for complex pieces of hardware, but an effort is underway to get hardware specifications for something very simple, a remote control. The Logitech Harmony 880 is a universal remote that contains a color LCD display and has proved to be a very popular peripheral and can interface with everything from a TiVO to a computer and other home appliances. For the past few months Phil Dibowitz has been working on writing a Linux driver for this $250 USD remote control.

Phil has made attempts at contacting Logitech for specifications on the Harmony 880 remote control; however, Logitech has stated they cannot release this "confidential information". Phil had went on to apply for Logitech's developer program twice, but both times he was turned away.

Another Linux user, Paul Cutler, has even offered a bounty for the first developer that can implement configuration syncing and additional cash prizes for being able to update the device firmware and a program allows OEM IR command learning. More information on this Harmony 880 bounty for Linux is at his blog.

If you're a Linux user and own a Logitech Harmony 880, be sure to check out the links above and chime in with your thoughts in the Phoronix Forums.