1. Functionality – basic or advanced?
Decide for yourself first whether you want a universal remote that can do only the basic functions such as power on and off, play, stop, pause, etc; or one that can perform all the advanced functions included in the original remote controls.
If you rarely even use the advanced function buttons on the original remotes, then you might as well get a basic universal remote control that is cheaper.
2. Control range
Don’t feel like getting up and going into the next room to switch off that air-cond? Get a universal remote with radio frequency that can navigate through partitions! A good model is the Logitech Harmony 1000 Advanced Universal Remote.
These are more advanced universal remotes and cost more, of course. If you’re getting this type of universal remote, make sure it can control a good number of devices, or you might as well invest in two standard universal remotes and keep one in each room.
3. Users
Who will be using the universal remote more? Different people like different kinds of universal remotes.
Seniors would prefer larger and maybe back-lit or illuminated buttons that are easier to see. People who’re not so good at devices would like simple and basic buttons just to let them control many devices with one remote control.
Techies like advanced technologies that allow them more flexibility in functions. For instance, an Xbox junkie like me would love this Logitech Harmony Xbox 360 Remote.
4. Rechargeable battery and dock?
I strongly advise you to buy a universal remote that doesn’t need you to configure devices all over again when you change the battery. What a waste of time! If the universal remote cannot keep the configurations when the battery is taken out, then you’d better check if it has a rechargeable battery and dock.
Some people would like a dock because it keeps the universal remote in place and you don’t have to look around for it. Logitech Harmony 880 Advanced Universal Remote Control comes with one.
5. Number of devices
Count the number of devices you want to control with the universal remote, add a rough number of devices you may add to your home in the future, then get the universal remote that can control so many devices.
This will make sure you’re really getting that ONE remote control for all devices. If you’re frequently updating your home devices, get a learning universal remote like this Sony RM-VL600 8-Device Universal Learning Remote.
6. Types of devices
Are you using common brands of devices at home? Universal remotes come with a listing of codes for many brands and models of devices in its manual, but if you’re using some unknown or rare brand of device, you may have to search for the code on your own.
You can avoid some trouble by checking what types and brands of devices the universal remote can control. A good universal remote for home theater system is the Logitech Harmony 890 Advanced Universal Remote Control, while the Logitech Harmony 880 Advanced Universal Remote Control is compatible with most systems.
Go to my Best Universal Remote main page or blog for more tips and universal remote reviews.
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The attractive and stylish Logitech Harmony 670 Universal Remote has a bunch of pros as well as some inevitable cons. The product is designed uniquely for Digital Video Recorder (DVR) users.
Logitech Harmony 670 Universal Remote
It has color-coded activity controls that allow you to one single button to configure your devices. Aside from that, I really like the backlit keys featured in the universal remote, no more complaining about fumbling through the buttons when in the dark.
One other good thing about this device is that it provides an easy task for you to set it up, rather than wasting your time figuring out steps one by one. The web wizard will breeze you through each and every step and you’ll finally get hold of a universal masterpiece. This, I am grateful for since I’m not really a read-the-thick-manual guide person.
Another reason I believe why the Logitech Harmony 670 Universal Remote has potential to attract other customers is that it is easy to use. With just one press of any activity buttons; the remote will do everything else for you.
Well if you face any obstacles, any problems at all, with a push of the ‘Help’ button, you’ll gain instant access to a troubleshooter that can help you get it all back. Besides that, if you’re the type who hates being outdated, this is the controller for you. With this controller, just by simply connecting to your computer with the USB interface, you’ll be updated with new components, so that you will never be left behind!
Even though it has great functions and features, it still does have some slight problems. Small problems that have been complained by users can include delays when turning multiple devices on, if you have bad aiming skills, and if you miss an angle, you will miss the device and have to face the consequences with the “Help” button.
All in all, the Logitech Harmony 670 Universal Remote has its fair share of goodness and I believe it is acceptable to oversee the small flaw.
Further information:
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If you take a look at the 3.5” touch screen on the Logitech Harmony 1000 Advanced Universal Remote, you’ll find that it takes us to another level of ease with the color icons and backlit buttons.
Logitech Harmony 1000 Advanced Universal Remote
If you’re the energy saving or time saving type, don’t you worry because this device ensures customer satisfaction with the rechargeable Lithium-ion battery. With the recharging stand, you won’t even feel its battery dying.
This universal remote controls a wide assortment of systems, from HDTVs to PVR/DVRs, and even so, Logitech’s online database still continues growing every day. This is particularly convenient since it wouldn’t be a hassle if I were to buy a new device any need to have it configured.
The Logitech Harmony 1000 Advanced Universal Remote has a Help Button to serve you and your problems, this would bring much ease and convenient to users. Aside from that, with the One-touch activity controls, I can simply touch one icon and expect all the necessary components lay out before me.
I could also customize additional pages to my liking and fulfill the updates I need. Well, I do this on and off just to make sure that I am constantly updated.
Sadly, what’s not at all amusing is the inconsistent sensitivity of the touch screen, some of the virtual buttons don’t respond properly even if you put pressure on it. Some would wish that a stylus was provided, but unfortunately, even if it was, that wouldn’t solve the fact that the sensitivity hasn’t got the quality we all expect. Only after countless tries will you only be able to succeed in doing so.
It is needless to say that the Logitech Harmony 1000 Advanced Universal Remote is handy and packed with convenient, user-friendly functions. However, an improvement on the touch screen’s sensitivity would sweeten the experience.
Further information:
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Excited about the fact that you just got your new universal remote, but only to realise that you have no idea how or where to start? Or is the user manual guide just too thick and long winded? Read on to pick up some useful tips on how to use a universal remote and breeze your way through the process.
Here are the main steps:
1. Connect your universal remote to your computer
Universal remotes usually come with a USB cable. Use the cable to connect your remote to your computer.
2. Install software
If an installation CD comes with your remote, just pop in the CD and install the software. However, if the remote doesn’t come with one, just visit the company’s website and download the software’s latest version.
3. Register an account on the website
Usually, after getting the software of program installed, you would be prompted to register yourself on the company’s website. It’s a simple task and won’t take much of your time.
4. Configure devices to your remote
More than often, a database which has quite a vast coverage on a wide variety of devices for you to choose from is provided. Just identify the company, model, and the type of your device to determine the code which will then be used to configure your remote.
Nevertheless, if you can’t find your device from the database, you just have to answer a few questions related to your device and a code will be provided for the configuration.
5. Manually configure button functions
There are times when certain buttons on your original remote cannot be found on the universal remote. Don’t panic, it is actually quite easy especially if your universal remote is a learning remote. Place the both remotes so that both of them are touching at the infrared source.
Push the learn button on the universal remote and select the destination button on the universal remote. Then press and hold on to the button on the original remote that you want the universal remote to learn. When it is done, (usually indicated by a blink of light) just try it out on your device!
The best learning remote is the Sony RM-VL600 8-Device Universal Learning Remote, which I strongly recommend for those who often update their home system.
6. Troubleshooting
If you were to encounter any problems at all when using the universal remote, there would most probably be a ‘Help’ button available. Work your way through, it is always easily solved since the questions and tips provided are closely related to the problem you are facing.
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Yet another new member has been added to the Harmony family, Logitech presents us with Logitech Harmony 550 Universal Remote. It’s another great deal as this one is compatible with almost 3000 electronic manufacturers.
Logitech Harmony 550 Universal Remote
It can proudly boast that it is capable to replace up to fifteen remote control devices, which I find very convenient. Other than that, the universal remote has a comfy grip to it, making my system navigation much easier and comfortable as the remote fits snugly in my palm. The outer contour of the remote was stylish enough. Plus, the buttons felt good, not the rubbery kind which often annoys me.
The set up is carefully guided, however there was a part where I got stuck. Fear not though, a call to their customer service hotline and things were set back in order. This trusted brand, Logitech doesn’t fail to convince us it provides great care for its customers, something which I find appealing.
Once you got your hands on the Logitech Harmony 550 Universal Remote, you will most probably be way excited to use it, but I’ll warn you, don’t get your hopes too high that you’ll be able to complete installation in a jiffy. I spent more than an hour trying to get the installation right.
Still, the system is compatible with Windows XP, Windows Vista and Macintosh OS. Unfortunately, the product is only powered up with 4AAA batteries. It’s a shame that it doesn’t come with a rechargeable battery and dock. It would have been so much better if the feature were to be included.
Aside from it being rather slow, compared to many others, Logitech Harmony 500 Universal Remote would be ideal for people who have loads of controllers to handle lying around your couch.
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With the multiple systems you can control with the MONSTER MCC AVL300-S Home Theater & Lighting Controller 300 With Omnilink, you’ll find loads of convenient and functionality.
MONSTER MCC AVL300-S Home Theater & Lighting Controller 300 With Omnilink
What’s greater is that it operates up to a wide range, up to 130 feet, providing me great convenience and as well as allowing me to switch off and on my systems from almost any part of the house.
It offers an easy to use all-in-one controller because there seems to be not at all any complex and obstacles when it comes to programming the remote. The simplicity of the controller lets every member of my family to be able to meddle around the controller easily.
MONSTER MCC AVL300-S – User Friendly
It has something called the Monster Central Control fixed in it; it’s a web-based advanced information source. Instead of the usual google and search for ways to connect the controller with my home theater, I was amazed with the remote setup provided. It walked me through and provided me step-by-step guidance on how to connect my system to the remote.
The remote can be used to control several A/V components, including a Blu ray player, AV receiver, video projector and more. It controls up to 64 A/V Components!
Finally, if you need an easy to program, easy to customize remote controller, MONSTER MCC AVL300-S Home Theater & Lighting Controller 300 With Omnilink is the one for you. It overall works well except for the quirky “joystick” controller. As long as you get the settings and programming right, this should just work fine.
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Philips SRU8015/37 Prestigo 15 Device Universal Remote offers a control up to fifteen to twenty-five different devices. That is actually more than enough to control all the devices in my house. The remote is beautifully designed; it looks stylish and sleek on the outside.
Philips SRU8015/37 Prestigo 15 Device Universal Remote
Some people, especially I myself, would definitely welcome backlit keys, they are easy to use and easy to see too. Aside from it being fully backlit, programming is easier than usual, hassle-free. However, programming requires a whole lot of patience, as it’ll eat up much of your time. After programming and figuring everything out, things should work out fine after you connect it with your devices.
Though, for our simplicity there’s an “All Off” button available on this remote, unfortunately, there’s a catch. In order to make good use of it, you’ll need to manually add each device and tell the controller what command to send. Those aside, if you somehow do set the “All Off” feature up, don’t try it when one of your devices is off, your universal remote will automatically switch it on. When it comes to that, believe me, it is a nuisance.
The Philips SRU8015/37 Prestigo 15 Device Universal Remote does not have a wide database, it is limited, and so what’s really annoying here is that you’ll need to slowly manually program other devices which have been not included in their database. Like I said, you are required to manually program a few devices, but what really puts me off is that there are even Philips devices which are needed to be manually programmed!
There’s still much room of improvement in the Philips SRU8015/37 Prestigo 15 Device Universal Remote. Still, all the same, with its cheap price compared to others, it might still have some potential in satisfying certain customers’ needs.
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Universal remotes have proved to be useful and it had brought the meaning of convenient navigation of devices to a whole new level. Though it makes things incredibly easier when you combine all your remotes into a single one, it might just be a major problem when you encounter a glitch or when your universal remote seems to cease functioning properly.
Here are a few handy tips in aiding you to troubleshoot what might be causing your universal remote to not function normally:
Is your device joint to a working power socket?
Check to make sure that the device you were having problem with, is actually connected to a running power supply. It might sound silly now, but you’d be amazed at how often this first step proves to be a charm.
Battery’s condition
For universal remotes which require batteries, check if you have them installed correctly. Also, batteries which display corroded traces might just be the culprit. If your universal remote boasts a rechargeable battery, double check its battery status and see if there’s enough juice. A remote running low in battery life may not function efficiently.
Have a clear path between the universal remote and device
Move the universal remote closer to the targeted electronic device, preferably within 20 feet (about 6 metres) and be sure to aim squarely. Take away anything which might come in between the infrared ray. Be it a plastic covering the universal remote, or a cloth draped over the device, these may hinder the remote’s functions.
Disable remote’s locking feature
Try switching off the universal remote’s key lock of parental lock properties. More than often, they can be the contributing factors as to why the remote is not functioning.
Check if the remote’s infrared is working
You will need a camera phone or a digital camera for this. Aim the infrared source of the universal remote towards the camera lens. Observe via the digital viewer as you push all the buttons on the remote. You should be able to get a flicker of light from the infrared source while looking through the digital viewer, if the remote is functional. In the event that all buttons pass this test, either your device needs to be looked at or the remote requires a reprogram.
Manual and codes
The last resort would be to refer to the universal remote’s user manual. Ensure that the remote is configured correctly to the device. Also, make certain that the device code registered in the remote is the right one.
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I made a good choice when I first bought the Logitech Harmony 890 Advanced Universal Remote Control. It harbors the ability to contain 15 devices in its memory which ranges from household appliances to lighting. It comes with a one-year hardware warranty too if I may add.
Logitech Harmony 890 Advanced Universal Remote Control
Starting off with its wizard-based installation, the configuring of devices was simple enough. After installing the Harmony software and registering an ID, I connected my devices while stating the devices I have and categorizing them into various activities. I am delighted to say that it worked well for both Mac and Windows for me.
Besides, thanks to the RF wireless extender which came with the remote, I can roam around the house but still being able to navigate devices which are in other rooms. If the remote ever encounters a problem in picking up the devices’ signal, there is a handy prominent ‘Help’ button which is user-friendly, ready to assist me.
Yet another plus point, the Logitech Harmony 890 Advanced Universal Remote Control comes with a rechargeable battery and naturally, a charging cradle. The remote has a super sensitive motion sensor too. It comes to live with its backlights turned on each time I pick it up, how cool is that!
A few points which are less satisfying though, I had to update the RF receiver so very often even if I just made a very minor change on my remote configuration. In the end, I had the receiver placed near to a power source where I can easily disconnect and reconnect it from my system. Furthermore, the physical buttons on this remote needs getting accustomed to since I had some trouble reading the small labels.
As a whole, disregarding the minor flaws, the Logitech Harmony 890 Advanced Universal Remote Control is a pleasure to use. The design is plausible and if you are tired of your dozen or so remotes, this is the universal remote for you.
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Logitech never ceases to amaze us with its wonderful all-in-one designs for universal remote controllers. To prove that, Logitech Harmony 880 Advanced Universal Remote Control’s color LCD is both functional and classy, and is equipped with a battery level indicator that shows you your current charge status.
Logitech Harmony 880 Advanced Universal Remote Control
Other goodies that comes in a package is the docking station, not only does it help keep your controller fully charged, it too will help forgetful housemates of yours remember where to find it!
Logitech Harmony 880 Advanced Universal Remote Control definitely brought an end to long and tiring set ups, good for me, since I have never been the patient type. Logitech does a splendid job with customer support. If you ever find difficulties or find something faulty, with just one ring of a phone call, you’ll get professional help from technicians to help you puzzle out your problem.
Controlling your entire audio-video system has never been easier with a single button. It even features a comfort grip shape and a centered directional pad that fits perfectly in your hand. Though, some might whine and complain about the difficulties of pressing the awkwardly placed buttons, they’re tiny and placed so closed together that people with larger fingers would get fed up of controlling it. Kids won’t find it any bit annoying though.
However, there are times when I find the charging battery process somewhat irritating, as sometimes the unit doesn’t charge properly. To solve this, I have to clean up the contact points to make sure it doesn’t fail to connect properly to the unit. The rechargeable base is easy to operate if this problem doesn’t occur.
This stylish Logitech Harmony 880 Advanced Universal Remote Control has its pros and cons but it works well for those who have smaller fingers and a home theatre system. It’ll make life easier with the many systems compatible with it and the great customer care provided.
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