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| | What
is Universal Remote Control? |
| A
universal remote is a remote control that can be programmed to operate various brands of one or more types of consumer electronics devices. Low-end universal remotes can only control a set number of devices determined by their manufacturer, while mid- and high-end universal remotes allow the user to program in new controls codes to the remote. Many remotes sold with various electronic devices include universal remote capabilities for other types of device, which allow the remote to control other devices beyond the device it came with. Often a universal remote control can be programmed to operate several electronic devices, reducing the need for individual controllers. Not all wireless systems may be compatible with a universal remote control, but manufacturers of these devices usually provide a list of brand names and models which can be programmed.
With so many electronic entertainment systems featuring wireless technology, it's not unusual for consumers to lose individual remote control units. This can lead to frustration if the television must be tuned manually while the VCR or DVD remote still function normally. Fortunately, several companies realized a need for replacement remotes which were not programmed for a specific brand of electronic device. |
A
universal remote control works on the principle that almost all remote control devices work on a limited number of codes. There may be numerous television, stereo and DVD player manufacturers in the world, but they all use the same handful of frequencies and programming codes. By identifying and listing the codes used by individual manufacturers, a universal remote control can duplicate the functions of the original remote. Consumers simply find their make and model of electronic device in the coding list, then use the universal remote control's function keys to enter the necessary information.
If a universal remote control operates more than one system, keypad controls for separate devices should be present. A function key for each system should be depressed first to let the remote know which device to control. Sometimes users forget to change the functionality of a universal remote control, leading to frustration as the television set remains off but the stereo turns on suddenly.
There are a few drawbacks with a universal remote control, however. Not all system codes are guaranteed to be readily programmable. Finding the proper values for an unknown device can involve a series of tedious experiments. If the universal remote control loses battery power, all of the individual coding may be lost. This could mean reprogramming 4 separate devices manually. Some consumers find that universal remote controls do not offer the same functionality keys as the original controllers.
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