mercredi 9 janvier 2013

Get Rid Of Your Old Remotes And Replace Them With An RCA Universal Remote Control

By Lee Han Huwen


A quality rca universal remote can make the rest of your electronic remote controls redundant, as long as you're aware of which features it should include. Buy the wrong type or model and all of the reasons you bought the URC for in the first place will be pointless, if you still need to cling on to one of more of your old remotes.

So how do the new universal remotes work and what are the functions you should be looking out for?

Most major universal controls work on the same premise - to control using special built-in codes, the electronic devices scattered around your house and perform all the same functions that the parent remotes would. How the new remotes achieve this performance is what makes them stand out from the crowd.

The best quality URC's should have a built-in database that supports the control of thousands of different electronic appliances. IF this isn't the case, then you could argue that the remote has fallen at the first hurdle and is it worth pursuing over other brands that do honor this functionality.

A URC can acquire these universal codes in one of three ways. It can learn them from an existing remote, it can download them from an online database via Wi-Fi or installation disk or it will already have the codes built-in.

Realistically, all universal controllers should have a decent sized database built-in, as this allows you to start using the remote straightaway. The database should be fairly exhaustive and include thousands of brands and associated models. If the list is somewhat small, the usability of the remote could be called into question very quickly.

Instead of having a large internal database, some URC's have a learning facility which basically enables them to learn any new codes for devices. This can usually be done quick and easily by pointing the existing remote at the new URC and pressing the stated buttons from the manual to record the signal. If a URC doesn't incorporate either of these two functions, then the remote will quickly become useless if it isn't already.

A third option can overcome the first two functions. A Wi-Fi capability will allow the device to connect to the internet and update the remote codes on the URC via the manufacturers' online database. You can also update the remote by using a CD/DVD. These disks often come pre-packed with the URC and offer an alternative to the online connection; however, once they've become outdated, you'll need newer copies, which may incur fees.

The URC will incorporate one of the above three functions as this is vital to the future usability of the remote. If you can't update or update easily, then the obsolete clock is ticking on the device as soon as it leaves the shop.

The main functions have now been covered, but that doesn't mean there aren't other considerations before you buy. Look at styling and the ergonomics of the device as well as an intuitive user interface. Pick a model which you feel comfortable holding, look for an ergonomic fit that sits easily in the hand.

Check out the various user interfaces (UI) available, as some top models feature large LED screens with touch screen options, so the graphics can also play an important part and need to be easy to read. Also look for sensible button placement in the layout.

To wrap things up in this article we'll just say a quick word on useful extras that can take the rca universal remote from being good to being great. Does the URC include a dock with which to stand and charge the device? Are the keys powered by backlights? Two simple factors that can greatly improve performance and enjoyment.




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