If I did a simple PIC RS232 infrared remote 8N1 just to represent 8 switches, will a universal remote (like a harmony) be able to learn the rs232?

Been a while since I built an ired device -- what is the carrier frequency that's popular -- isnt it 40khz or something?

Anyway, my goal is to put a simple power on/off on my PC and I would like it to be part of the harmony's "activity" routine.

I suppose I may have to go with one of the standard remote protocols rather than rs232 ?

Any tips on getting this project done? thanks