Had a similar problem, turned out to be what I thought was the IR was not (light sensor). I found it by taking the emitter in my hand and holding it in front of the unit (a few feet) and slowly moving it while I tried commands. It also could be too sensitive and you might have to "not" put the emitter directly in front of the reciever (which can also be determined by holding the emitter by hand). If so, some tape might help.