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Universale Remotes

If you’re like most people there’s a cluster of remote controls on the living room coffee table. And, if you’re like most people it takes a minute to remember which remote governs which system. One simple solution to all this clutter and confusion is a universal remote.

A good universal remote will retail for just about 20 GBP
A good universal remote will retail for just about 20 GBP

Universal remotes are sometimes called a mulitbrand remote because they’re designed for compatibility. A good universal remote can operate your DVD player, TV, stereo and potentially even a game system. On the really fancy universal remotes you can even have features like lighting adjustment! Having said all that, the common multibrand remote typically can’t control highly specialized abilities in some equipment. In other words, you get on, off, volume control, open-close, etc. but not necessarily color or tone adjustments. So while you’re shopping really scrutinize the various functions each remote offers to be sure you’re getting what you need.

Programmable remotes are one good option in universal. These come pre-programmed for some functions (with a list of codes) but they can also be taught to learn new commands. Now, you still need your old remotes here otherwise you can’t teach the remote new functions. I always recommend keeping them safe somewhere, labeled clearly, just in case something goes awry. By the way, some of the programmable remotes are designed to work cooperatively with your computer, meaning you can download information into them directly using a USB cable. This eliminates a lot of the headaches of getting the right codes.

A universal remote can take away from the remote stack.
A universal remote can take away from the remote stack.

With a programmable remote you might want to watch for a macro feature. This let’s you create a series of commands that will all manifest with the touch of one button. For example, you could program your DVD player and stereo to come on at the same time for playing movies. Since these systems are fairly advanced, some also feature an LCD touch screen instead of buttons. The screens offer lighting so you’re not hunting for buttons in a dark room. However, the LCD is also going to be more sensitive than a push-button remote. If you have a highly active household with pets or children, buttons are a wiser and more durable option

A third option in programmable remotes is an radio frequency wave. This beam carries commands similar to a radio, but you don’t have to be within site of the system you’re controlling. If someone or something stands between you and the TV, for example, this remote will still function perfectly well.
Two final, and very handy options are a power cradle and memory. The cradle holds your remote and charges itf up. Having this means that unlike a battery remote that has to be reprogrammed when it dies, your remote stays completely programmed. Flash memory also saves data similarly