Buzz
A universal remote gives you the power to control all of your devices with just one tool, reducing the clutter and hassle of juggling multiple remotes.
©iStockphoto.com/sloboKey Highlights
- Universal remotes are divided into two main types: multibrand and learning remotes. Multibrand remotes are easy to use and often come pre-programmed for basic functions like controlling the volume and changing channels.
- Learning remotes, on the other hand, are able to learn and replicate the functions of other remotes using infrared signals, making them adaptable to a variety of devices and more flexible than multibrand remotes.
- Advanced models of universal remotes can be set up through a PC and perform multiple tasks with just one button press. These remotes also utilize radio frequencies for a longer range of control.
As home theater systems become increasingly popular, new technologies for digital cable, DVR, HDTV, DVDs, and CDs are rapidly emerging. Each of these innovations comes with its own remote, which means that your coffee table might soon be covered in multiple remotes – sometimes as many as five or six. These remotes handle a range of functions, from recording TV shows on your cable box to adjusting the volume of your CDs and setting up movie subtitles. While the options are virtually limitless, so is the risk of losing a remote or getting bogged down by the many programming choices available.
A universal remote is a great solution for combining several remotes into one convenient device. Available in various styles, some universal remotes feature an array of buttons, while others are more streamlined with just a few. They're typically larger than the remotes that come with individual devices, making them easier to spot and less likely to get lost between the cushions of your couch.
Wondering what devices a universal remote can control? Here are some of the electronics that can be operated by a high-end model:
- DVD/VCR
- CD changer
- Laserdisc player
- Amplifier
- Tape deck
- Game console
- Computer
- Light controller
- Climate controller
- Cable box
- Satellite box
[source: Logitech]
Many universal remotes are designed with features like glowing buttons or a backlit display, making them perfect for use in dimly lit environments. Some premium models even include an LCD screen for additional information, often coupled with a touch-screen interface for easier control.
Unlike standard remotes, many universal remotes feature a battery backup system, like flash memory, to preserve your settings even when you change the batteries. Charging cradles are another helpful option to maintain your custom settings without losing memory.
Not all universal remotes are made the same. Some are relatively simple, while others come with more advanced features. In the upcoming section, we’ll dive into the key differences that distinguish one universal remote from another.
Universal Remote Technology
Universal remotes come in two main types: multibrand and learning remotes. Multibrand remotes are pre-programmed with the codes needed to control a variety of common electronics, so you don't have to manually input complex codes. These remotes are usually capable of managing about four devices and typically handle basic functions like volume and channel control.
Learning remotes go beyond the functionality of multibrand models. While they are often pre-programmed with codes for popular devices, they can also 'learn' the commands from the original remote by receiving infrared signals. By holding the learning remote close to the original, the remote can copy the functions. If a new device is released after you've already purchased your learning remote, it can still learn its commands. Some multibrand remotes can also be updated to control new devices, though this varies by model.
Learning remotes offer a much broader range of compatibility with electronic devices than multibrand remotes, truly earning their title as universal remotes. They also support the programming of "macro" functions, which we’ll explore in more detail in a later section.
Due to their simpler design, multibrand remotes are generally much more affordable compared to learning remotes. One of the most budget-friendly universal remotes is the Sony RM-V310 Universal Remote Control. Pre-programmed to handle basic functions for up to seven devices, it’s priced around $15.
A higher-end option is the Logitech Harmony 670 Universal Remote, which is priced between $65 and $150. It is specifically designed for DVR users and is programmable via PC. An even more premium choice is the Logitech Harmony 890 Advanced Universal Remote Control, which can range from $190 to $400. This model utilizes both radio frequency and infrared technology to control devices up to 100 feet (30.5 meters) away [source: Hunch].
In addition to multibrand and learning remotes, there are other types of universal remotes, including RF remotes, PC-programmable remotes, and LCD touch-screen remotes. We will explore these types in the following section.
If you own a smartphone, like an iPhone or BlackBerry, you could soon be able to use it as a universal remote. Melloware has developed a pair of applications that allow your iPhone to control your PC’s Windows Media Center from across the room [source: Biggs].
Types of Universal Remotes
PC-programmable remotes let you enter the model numbers of your devices and set up the remote according to your preferences. The necessary programming commands are then transferred to your remote via a USB connection. If your remote is PC-programmable, it likely features an RS-232 interface that enables communication between your computer and the remote through a serial or USB port.
WiFi-enabled remotes are some of the latest additions to the universal remote family. These devices let you bypass your cable provider and access TV schedules through your WiFi network. They can even display real-time sports scores and news updates on a small LCD screen embedded in the remote.
LCD touch screen remotes feature an illuminated touch-sensitive screen, typically positioned at the top of the remote. These screens are usually about 2 by 4 inches (5 by 10 cm) in size. Some LCD touch screen models allow you to customize the virtual buttons, choosing their layout and appearance. If you prefer physical buttons, other LCD remotes are available that offer traditional button layouts instead of a touch screen.
Radio frequency remotes use RF waves to control devices even if there are obstacles like walls or furniture blocking the line of sight. For instance, if you're in the kitchen and want to operate your home entertainment system in the living room through a wall, an RF-enabled remote can send commands through the wall. The remote emits an RF signal to an extender in the same room as your equipment, which then retransmits the command via infrared so your devices can detect it.
- To transmit an IR programming command from your original remote to your universal remote, keep the button on the transmitting remote pressed until the universal remote accepts the command.
- Test the distance between the two remotes. Depending on the strength of the IR signal, this distance can range from 4 inches to a foot (10.2 cm to 30.5 cm).
- For a stronger IR signal, try replacing the batteries in your transmitting remote.
- To avoid interference, turn off any lights that may be emitting IR signals, particularly fluorescent or incandescent lights [source: Remotecentral.com].
Programming Electronics with Universal Remotes
Since every individual's home-entertainment system and electronic setup may differ, so too will the commands programmed into your universal remote. The original remote of your device will come with a guide containing all necessary programming codes that can also be used for your universal remote. In addition, many of these programming codes can be found online at sites like Remotecodelist.com.
A great feature of many universal remotes is their ability to support macros, which let you assign multiple commands to a single button. For instance, you can create a macro that turns on both your TV and satellite receiver with just one press. Alternatively, you can program a macro to turn on both your TV and DVD player simultaneously. Your universal remote's manual will provide a list of available macros, and some can be downloaded from the remote's manufacturer's website.
Having explored the basics of universal remotes, we will now examine some of their advantages and disadvantages in the next section.
If programming the commands and setting up the macros seems overwhelming, you can hire a professional installer to take care of the task for you. However, keep in mind that their services can be quite expensive [source: InstallerNet].
Pros and Cons of Universal Remotes
Universal remotes come with their own set of benefits—such as combining multiple remotes into one, allowing for macros, and even offering features like glow-in-the-dark buttons—but they also present challenges when it comes to setup. Before purchasing one, it's important to consider what you're hoping to achieve with it.
If you're looking to simplify your remote setup but don't know where to begin, it might be best to avoid complicated remotes packed with features accessed only through multiple menu screens. A simple, budget-friendly multibrand remote could be just what you need. However, if price is no concern, you can always hire an expert to set up your high-end universal remote.
For those who want a universal remote that can handle the complex functions of all their electronics, a basic model may fall short. In that case, a more advanced remote with ample memory for programming could be a better choice. However, be cautious of overloading on features—choose a model with the capabilities you know you'll actually use.
For further details on universal remotes, check out the links provided on the next page.
Don't throw away your original remotes after switching to a universal one. Holding onto them allows you to reprogram later, and if you ever misplace your universal remote, you'll be able to start the reprogramming process from scratch.
