1 looked into the value and function calling, not a problem, since desired is a global variable
2 even with while (pulseIn(IR_PIN, HIGH) < start_bit); deleted, still does the same thing
what do you mean by interleave?
UPDATE: PaulS thank you! i'm sorry.i downloaded the irremote found on ken's website, but didnt check that there is a new version for arduino 1.0. compiled the demo program.works.i'm implementing it now into mine.
i'll be back with results
UPDATE2: THANK YOU PAUL.played around with irremote, works like a charm! problem solved!