An all-singing and dancing rca universal remote control will remove the need to hang on to existing controls and will de-clutter your living room in one fell swoop. However, you must ensure you buy the right model, as any weaknesses in the design or functionality will undo any benefits of the new remote if you still need the other ones.
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.
The codes required for control of other brand appliances can be loaded into the remote either via Wi-Fi or disk, by learning the codes from the parent remotes or by having a large database pre-installed.
If a URC already has a database of codes built-in it will be ready to go straight out of the box and a good remote should include thousands of these codes. This database should incorporate all of the main manufacturers and models of electronic equipment, so the up to date nature of this system is very important, otherwise the remote could quickly become obsolete.
You don't need to despair if the remote falls short of having a complete database, many URC's overcome this disadvantage by utilizing the learn function. A very popular and thankfully common attribute is the ability to transmit the code from the old device to the new one. The manual will detail the procedure, but its usually a simple transfer to store the codes on the new controller.
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often come pre-packed with the URC and offer an alternative to the online connection; however, once they've become outdated, you'll need newer copies, which may incur fees.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.
The user interface is what allows you to control all the functions and better models have lovely big, bright touch screen LED's. Is the UI big enough to read comfortably and can you alter the display settings. You also want to choose a model with decent buttons that are placed where they make logical sense.
Finally look for other little extras, maybe not as important, but that can be used in the event of a tie between two or more models. Does the URC include a charging cradle as these devices can use a lot of battery power. Are the keys on the remote backlit - this can help greatly in darkened rooms, which we all usually sit in when watching movies. Two little extras that can make all the difference in your quest for a top rca universal remote.
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.
The codes required for control of other brand appliances can be loaded into the remote either via Wi-Fi or disk, by learning the codes from the parent remotes or by having a large database pre-installed.
If a URC already has a database of codes built-in it will be ready to go straight out of the box and a good remote should include thousands of these codes. This database should incorporate all of the main manufacturers and models of electronic equipment, so the up to date nature of this system is very important, otherwise the remote could quickly become obsolete.
You don't need to despair if the remote falls short of having a complete database, many URC's overcome this disadvantage by utilizing the learn function. A very popular and thankfully common attribute is the ability to transmit the code from the old device to the new one. The manual will detail the procedure, but its usually a simple transfer to store the codes on the new controller.
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.
The user interface is what allows you to control all the functions and better models have lovely big, bright touch screen LED's. Is the UI big enough to read comfortably and can you alter the display settings. You also want to choose a model with decent buttons that are placed where they make logical sense.
Finally look for other little extras, maybe not as important, but that can be used in the event of a tie between two or more models. Does the URC include a charging cradle as these devices can use a lot of battery power. Are the keys on the remote backlit - this can help greatly in darkened rooms, which we all usually sit in when watching movies. Two little extras that can make all the difference in your quest for a top rca universal remote.
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