simple circuit which controls one relay output.
http://www.aaroncake.net/circuits/irremote.htm
http://www.hifi-remote.com/wasser/index.shtml
http://www.repairfaq.org/REPAIR/F_irrfaq.html
receive signals from a standard Sony remote control and send the code bytes(2) received to an RS-232 port, based on PIC 16C84
http://www.users.bigpond.com/pbhandary/pic/IRSony.html
lots of projects published in the UK magazine Radio Control Models and Electronics
http://www.welwyn.demon.co.uk/
will allow you to turn on any piece of equipment that operates on 115 volts AC.
http://home.maine.rr.com/randylinscott/aug98.htm
http://www.mitedu.freeserve.co.uk/Circuits/Interface/irext.htm
control your stereo, TV and VCR from Windows, includes schematic and software.
http://www.ziplabel.com/cir/index.html