This project was created by "Intell of MacRumors". All credit goes to him; we are simply broadcasting his incredible creation!
Here's a link to our Instructables Guide: http://www.instructables.com/id/Add-an-IR-Port-to-Any-Mac-For-Less-Than-10/
This mod will basically allow you to get an IR sensor on ANY Macintosh computer using the Apple Pro Keyboard for less than $10. It has a completely stock look and can even benefit users that have an IR port on their Mac already, but the computer is in a place that a remote cannot reach the sensor. If you have any questions regarding this project or need help, simply post in the Comments section here or on the Instructables Project Page.
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Here's how to install an Apple OEM IR sensor into an Apple USB keyboard. Most of the Apple IR sensors use the internal USB bus. The IR sensor is fully USB compliant allowing you to remove and insert it without a problem. So why not make it external in the keyboard? The end result is a small IR sensor just above the F2 key. It works very well, almost if not as well as a built in Apple IR sensor. Great for an older PowerPC Mac, a modern Mac without an IR sensor, or even to have an extra IR sensor on the same Mac. I think this is because the keyboard's plastic case acts as a lens or conduit for the IR light to get to the sensor.
The IR sensor board I used is part number 922-7195. I chose this one because it's cheap (less than $10), has wires attached to it, is small, and has drivers built into 10.4 and newer. Once done, you'll have native Apple Remote IR abilities with your machine. With it you can control iTunes, Plex, and other Apple Remote enabled applications. You can even sleep and wake the machine via the Apple Remote. This will work with any of the plastic wired Apple USB keyboards. Possibly the aluminum models as well, but it'll require more work to open and seal them again. I have not done it to the iMac G3 style with a built in power button, but it should work on that model as well. This outlines the instructions for the Apple Pro keyboard (M7803). All pictures are thumbnail size, click to embiggen.
Remove the four Torx 5 screws and the one Phillips from the back of the keyboard. Note the Philips head is under the label sticker. Remove top plastic frame. It is held in by clips along the top and bottom of the keyboard. Remove three Phillips head screws from under the caps lock, semicolon, and keypad number 6 key. Before lifting out the keyboard from the bottom tray, remove the two securing screws and cable cover where the USB cable goes into the keyboard. Remove grounding screw near USB cable and seven screws securing the circuit board to the keyboard. Remove circuit board from back of keyboard.
Take a dry erase marker and mark the top of the IR sensor. Quickly take the sensor and position it so that the sensor body is in the corner against the USB port mount and the metal backing on the keyboard and press down lightly to transfer the dry erase ink.
