Turns out my box is a 2000. If it had been a 4000, apparently my universal remote would have worked: this is the reply I got from Pace:
This cable box uses completely different system of I.R. modulation as its primary IR system.
The system used was chosen by our customers ( the network providers ) and is a high speed system that gives some " future proofing " of the design . The system is designed for remote keyboard use ( Web browsing ) and to enable multiple handset to be used " simultaneously " as required when playing
games . This is because at some time in the near future the network providers will offer these services .
"Normal" handsets use a system of modulating (switching on and off ) a carrier signal . The normal frequency of the carrier being in the range of 35kHz to 60kHz..
The system used by Pace uses TWTV protocol which is based on the IRDA standard that has been designed to enable computer peripherals to be linked without cables . ( This is not surprising as modern digital cable set top boxes contain a powerful micro processing systems and the Pace boxes are the
first to also provide an integrated cable modem within the box.) The handset data is transmitted as discrete pulses of IR - it is not carrier based . The pulse rate is approximately 115kHz . The handsets have identification keys / tabs that enable the receiver to identify the handset . Each key sends a 7 byte package of data within 600uSec ( the same time that it taken to send only 1 or 2 bits of information with the normal system ) . This allows the data to be sent very quickly thus freeing time for a second handset to jump in . The receiver software also adds a time stamp to
the data to enable the games programmes to decide which handset responded first . The system and protocols used are covered by patents held by TWO WAY TV LTD .
The latest boxes do however accept RC5 type commands that universal remote will be able to use, the attached file may help and looking at
www.remotecentral.com http://www.remotecentral.com> my help.
<<RC5 Codes.txt>>
I hope this answers your query but should you have any further queries
please contact me again.
Best Regards
Customer Front Office
Pace Micro Technology plc