I have the SCPH-10172 package, which includes the SCPH-10150 remote and SCPH-10160 IR receiver. From all reports, the SCPH-10174 package that you have, which you say includes the SCPH-10420 remote, does NOT work with the PS3.

This is probably a remote problem (doesn't send out "controller compatible" codes) and not an IR receiver problem, so if you have a computer programmable remote like a Pronto or an MX-700 you may be able to get codes to work through it.

Otherwise, Logic3 has a new solution on the horizon, the PS916, which is a USB-key sized IR receiver and a simple remote designed for the PS3. However so far it's only mentioned on the company's UK site and I haven't seen it for sale anywhere. Also note that it offers no additional functionality over the current solution.