Can I create virtual devices/entities that map to learned commands for my Broadlink RM4 Pro IR/RF transmitter?

Configuration
1

I have a Broadlink RM4 Pro IR/RF transmitter. I added it to HA and was able to use it to learn/send commands for my RF devices like ceiling fans.

I can invoke those commands by using the remote send commands function.

I wanted to create some kind of “virtual device” for things, like my ceiling fan, with 1+ entities for various things (e.g. fan speed 1, fan speed 2, light toggle, etc.).

I know I can add button cards to my dashboard but I’m wondering if there is a way to create virtual devices instead?

2

Or create a template helper from gui

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3

People often create a script for a command, then call the script when they want to invoke it.
Here’s what I did.

4

Right now I have created 7 template buttons (one for each speed, one to turn the fan off, and one to toggle the light). This mimics the buttons on the remote.

It works but I don’t like that I have to create/manage/maintain 6 template buttons that aren’t related/grouped.

I thought I could use the template fan entity but it requires a way to get the state of the fan and that won’t work since I have no way to know the current state of the fan. Someone could do something with the physical remote and HA wouldn’t know.

5

That’s really the whole issue with IR/RF… You can always use helpers to store the current state (but that only works if you only use HA to interact with the device AND the signals are reliably received).

6

The simplest advice is to remove the batteries from the remote, so that it increases the friction / encourages people to use the automation.

I am aware of three ways to get feedback:

  • Monitor the power consumption.
  • Some devices have a door that opens, hence you can use a contact sensor.
  • Use a vibration sensor.

Its unlikely that you will get perfect feedback - for example to know the exact fan speed, however you may not need it.

I have a “dumb” AC that I control using IR, specifically

  • Toggle on/off
  • Cycle through the modes: Eco, Cool, Fan, Heat
  • Set the target temperature.

The only feedback I have is a single Vibration sensor.

I remember the state of the AC (inside HA) then fix it if I detect an anomaly.

Hint: What happens if you power cycle a device?
… They usually go back to a known configuration.

7

You could set up a IR receiver to read whatever is sent from the physical remote.

8

That still isn’t reliable, commands can easily be missed.