I got this error when I recently decided to set up my pc to watch tv channels. After lots of fails and research, I came up with the following checking:
1) Device Manger > Universal Serial Bus controllers > eHome Infrared Receiver (USBCIR) > This device is working properly.

2) services.msc:
- Human Interface Device Access > Started
- Windows Media Center Receiver Service > Started

3) The following are two "solutions" from tons of discussions on the internet:

"The only way I know to get around the need for an IR hardware device during the setup of Media Center for TV viewing is to use a "virtual" IR device.  There is one called "Vista MCE IR Blaster" that is a file you download from the Internet that simulates an IR device. "

"Just plug in a headset (earphone) into the slot on the USB receiver. The computer does not know that it's a headset – it just knows something is plugged in and thinks it's an IR blaster. Go through with configuration selecting "not listed" for the cable set top box. It worked for me!"

However the latter didn't work for me:(

4) Here is my solution:
From Device Manager > eHome Infrared Receiver > Right click to uninstall, and scan for hardware changes > the device was detected, and drivers were reinstalled automatically.

Now I am able to use tv remote control to change channels. Oh... I'm using vista home 64 bit.

2012.04.28 在城里