Cannot use remote with Inspiron 8100 and 2200MP

Ok....I have very low hours on my projector and never used the wireless remote...but, I have an upcoming presentation using PowerPoint2003 and I cannot get the remote to advance or doing anything. I changed the batteries...but, since I am out of warranty...what are my options....I looked online and cannot figure out the right keyword search for this particular laptop and projector. I push re-sync and it sees the laptop just fine. And, I can adjust the monitor settings from the remote...so, the remote is talking to the projector....but, I cannot get it to talk to the screen. Thanks in advance.