A system for operating a remote device has a portable timer module employing a microcontroller with an operating system configured to read and store executable instructions and data received over a communications link. A software application program in a personal computing device enables a user to select time of day control times for operating the remote device. The microcontroller receives the user-selected time of day control time data and instructions when coupled to the personal computing device. The microcontroller emulates the function of a time of day clock and generates control signals when the emulated time of day clock corresponds to the user-selected time of day control times. The portable timer module has a battery pack for powering the microcontroller. The portable timer module is configured to selectively couple battery voltage from the remote device to activate one or more of its electromechanical devices in response to the control signals.
