All the simple, buildable devices use dedicated cables. Running a cable is a simple job and, if you can build one of the devices, you can certainly run a cable in the house. Our experience shows that the GP1U52X introduces much noise if used with fluorescent light or in sunlight. Beware, its signals are just opposite to what the spec sheet says! Use an inverter if you are not using the diagrams below - a 7400 4 times NAND would do nicely.

Here is a schematic diagram, courtesy of Jeffrey Weiss, New York, NY:

This is another one, courtesy of Joel Davidson, Austin, TX:

For more information please use the links provided.

Detailed descriptions and more links
IR Remote Control using a computer
Powersphere Limited

But if you want to have it today, rather spend $50 or so than 50 hours, then buy a product available on the market. By the way, the circuits are always easy if you use dedicated cables. The trick with commercial RCX's is to relay the signals from one room to another using radio or the mains wires, thus making cables unnecessary.
As you need not worry about that when using cables, GOOD LUCK building your own RCX!

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