Universal remote

[chris kennedy]

I'm in need of a universal remote, not the kind that needs a laptop to program. This is for a guy that has no understanding of electronics, so user friendly is a must. I will be programing it so thats not an issue.

I stopped by big box on the way home and saw them from $150 to $350. I would like some input before I drop that kind of coin.

Thank you.

 

[electricalperson]

go to wal mart you can find them there for cheap. thats where i get mine

 

[TOOL_5150]

i allready answered this question... seems like I have been here before... seems so familiar!

~Matt

 

[480sparky]

This is like, d?j? vu all over again.

 

[nakulak]

best thing you can do for yourself is buy components that are all from same manuf (like sony). sony has great remotes too. so if you've got a home theater with a panasonic dvd surround, and 2 or 3 other different manuf components, just take the cheapest ones and toss them in the trash or use them next to the hot tub or outside next to the barbeque until they are fried. I bought a sony commander years ago and programmed it so the wife can push one button for everything to turn on and everything off, and she still can't figure it out, so she doesn't use the big screen. one day I'll get all sony and all will be well (can you tell I'm a sony fan ? its not from anything but using their components over the years and realizing they make great components)

 

[cadpoint]

Get your model and type or even your style numbers and serial numbers on paper.

Use "universal remote" on you favorite search engine, see what falls out.

Follow your 110.3 (A) FPN

Then consider both of the last sentences of 110.9 and 110.10...

:grin:


PS, or use the same paper and run to the store!

 

[LarryFine]

Chris, I have a one-word answer for you: Harmony. They are the easiest remote to program and use.

All you need for programming them is a list of each component's model number and a web connection.

 

[brantmacga]

Chris, I have a one-word answer for you: Harmony. They are the easiest remote to program and use.

All you need for programming them is a list of each component's model number and a web connection.

i believe some of the harmony remotes can be connected via USB and programmed online.

that would be useful to the HO if he added a piece of equipment later and needed it to be programmed, or if the remote has to be reprogrammed.

 

[ELA]

Chris, I have a one-word answer for you: Harmony. They are the easiest remote to program and use.

All you need for programming them is a list of each component's model number and a web connection.

I would agree that they are easy to program and a very nice remote ....
Just beware that that they like to change their firmware on you from time to time. It can really mess with your well established setup.

Larry,
Do you use the Media button with CDs by any chance :roll:

 

[ericsherman37]

Be careful with those universal remotes. Didn't you see the movie Click?

 

[Barjack]

The best (easiest to use) are the kind programmed with a computer. While a hand programmed remote may be able to be programmed to work all of the client's equipment, and even perform sequences (all on, all off), they are difficult to truly automate the gear, and in turn even frustrate the client more. Most of the more advanced remotes by Universal (I own one - MX850), Harmony, Phillips, RTI can be programmed for one touch operation of the equipment. For example: DVD button initiates a sequence that turns tv on, turns receiver on, turns dvd player on, sets receiver to dvd input, sets tv to proper input, plays dvd (if there is a disc), then switches remote to dvd control mode. These remotes have access to codes such as TV On, TV Off instead of TV Power Toggle. Depending on the manufacturer, these codes can help automate a system. A hand programmed remote may or may not have these codes. In addition, a hand programmed may only have a few sequencing operations available, so advanced operation may be impossible. If the client is looking just to consolidate his original remotes, a hand programmed might be best. Otherwise, I would look for Universal, Harmony, RTI and Phillips to name a few. PM if you have questions.

 

[chris kennedy]

Chris, I have a one-word answer for you: Harmony. They are the easiest remote to program and use.

The best (easiest to use) are the kind programmed with a computer. Harmony

I thank you all. The Harmony is super sweet. I programmed it in 15 minutes and the end user picked it up and navigated with no problems. I think I need a couple here at home.:smile: