Rauf,

If you go with an external RTC, Dallas Semi makes one (DS162X???) that has a WAKEUP pin that can be programmed for a minute/hour duration wakeup signal. With its internal nonvolatile ram (for scheduled task information) and accurate low-power clock, you could use it to control booting a micro on and off for minimum current draw.

Your WAKEUP signal-circuitry (usually wired-or) needs to also trigger the micro boot when any key is pressed.

The original Memorex "Universal Remote Control" used a MOTOROLA micro. They were designed at Tandy's Electronic Design facility in downtown Ft.Worth around 1987-88 by P.Pempsell (Tandy owned Memorex at that time).

-Jay C. Box