infrared remote control formats

A device is required to be programmed by one command from an unspecified (any) infrared remote control unit. and reissue this command on request. I,ve looked at three remote controls that lurk around the house. and the signals are all different formats. While this causes no problems yet, it would be handy to know how many different formats are in general use, and maybe a description of them. Help much appreciated :?

The main formats are RECS80, RC5, and NEC. Most have a 36-38kHz carrier (though receivers seem to be rather tolerant of the exact frequency). A google search on either one of these should turn up sufficient information. Here is a link for starters:

Link