How to operate remote control

If you're asking about an infrared remote control then yes. It will work with the ML-L3 remote or equivalent. You will have to set the shooting mode to one of the two remote modes to do so.

If you're asking about taking infrared pictures then not so well. The camera has an infrared filter that masks out most infrared light from reaching the sensor. There are companies such as LifePixel which will remove the infrared filter to convert your camera into an infrared camera.

The Nikon D5000 must be set in "Live View" mode before you can use the rear monitor to take photos. There is a button that says "LV" to the right of the LCD screen that sets Live View to on or off.

Check the lens cap.

Set the camera's release mode to one of the two remote modes. The quick-response mode fires the shutter when you press the button on the remote. The delayed mode gives you two seconds to hide the remote behind your back before firing the shutter.

For full details, look in the camera manual under "Release Mode" (page 65 in my copy of the D5000 manual).

For quite a while now,you have to hold the picture taking button down about half way for it to focus.Then take the pic by pushing the button the rest of the way.If that doesn't work,let me know and I will try to find an operation manual online.Just comment here and i will get an autolink to your post and reply ASAP.Greg

Set the camera's release mode to one of the two remote modes. The quick-response mode takes the picture when you press the button on the remote. The delayed mode gives you two seconds to hide the remote behind your back before taking the picture.

there will be a timer buttton on the camera. in the menu you can select how long it will take before taking a picture . it should be stated in the manual

http://www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/d5000/users-guide/menus-custom-timers.htm#c3

How to used your ML-L3 remote to your NIKON D5000???,
It's on page 65 of your manual.

Set the shooting mode to Delayed-remote or Quick-response remote.

Look up "Shooting Modes" in the camera manual.

I believe you're hearing the VR in the lens adjusting. Try turning the VR off and see if you hear the sound. If not, then you have a normal operating lens.