A wireless controller (200) is configured to send commands to a mini-split HVAC unit (100) that thermostatically controls a temperature in a space (50) using the temperature sensed and a programmable set point. The wireless controller (212) may include an infrared (IR) transmitter (208), a temperature sensor (210), a user interface (214), a non-volatile memory (202), and a controller (212). The wireless controller (200) may store an IR database in the non-volatile memory (202) for each of a wide variety of mini-split HVAC unit (100). The wireless controller (200) may then allow a user to select a particular mini-split HVAC unit (100), and from the selection may identify a corresponding IR protocol in the IR database. During subsequent use, the wireless controller (200) may use the corresponding IR protocol during subsequent communication with the mini-split HVAC unit (100).