A method for controlling an e-book reader, set forth by way of example and not limitation, includes transmitting a digital packet including an address of a button actuator and a button control signal in response to a detection of a button press on a remote control device. The method further includes receiving the packet at the button actuator, decoding the packet in a digital processor to derive the button control signal, and controlling a motor to move a physical actuator between a neutral position and a button press position.