That's right, not VNC, not Remote Desktop, a TV remote.  I love this site and just came across is last week, Cool Toys is favorite of mine too.  But instrucables had a contest over the holidays for the best build it at home gifts, they are all outstanding but this one relates to computers and it is cheap!  If you get the parts, software, and own a remote, say that TV tuner remote, you can control your PC with this.

From his write up...

introPC remote control

"This project contains all about how to make a chip to control your computer remotely with almost any remote controller you can find in your house. Including, not only winamp control, but full computer control. You can control all your computer programs, procceses, sub-procceses etc.
All parts can by found at local radioshack shop. Everything cost abuot 20$ ,but whole project worth much more.
I'am using Girder software, newest version is 4.0. You can buy it at www.promixis.com/.
You can also find this project in my Language (Lithuanian) at there.
Schematics are made by some guy name Igor. He also made plugin to program girder. OK thanks for Igor and let start making real good gifts!"

Regards,

Anthony

Anthony Clendenen | Technical Consultant | Microsoft Practices | Dimension Data

“Dimension Data is Microsoft’s 2006 Global Advanced Infrastructure Technology Innovation

Partner of the Year… for the Dynamic Desktop Deployment Solution”