When remotes are out of control
(Credit:
Universal Remote Controls)
We've given up: The endless proliferation of remotes in our household is out of control. We've tinkered with so-called universal models, but they either don't seem to work or, more likely, we're just too "challenged" to figure them out.
The only solution, at least in the near term, may be a reduction in their rabbit-like numbers by consolidating them in sub-categories. To wit: The new "Universal Gamer" may not take care of everything in the house, but it at least claims to work with the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 2 (if not the Wii), as well as six other devices including HDTV, TiVo and cable, according to Electronic House.
It's not ideal, but we'll take what we can get; our remotes are starting to talk about organizing a union. Of course, all this is moot if you're controlling your console through brainwaves alone.
I know it's the Memorial Day doldrums, but this article could have been much better/longer. Compare feature with some of the best-of-breed and some of the price-sensitive models - why aren't they solving the problem?
- I disagree - Logitech Harmony Universals are GREAT
- by mpinter May 28, 2007 7:18 AM PDT
- I've used two different Logitech Harmony universal remotes, and have recommended them to many friends. For $70-$150 bucks, you get a brain-dead simple device that you program through a web site. Pick your devices and configurations, download to the remote, and off you go. Even my wife, a self professed ludite, has no trouble getting my plasma TV, surround receiver, DVR cablebox, DVD player and VCR to work together with the simple push of a button. The latest versions even now support IR. My buddy at work can not only control his entertainment center but his IR ceiling fan!
- Like this Reply to this comment
-
(4 Comments)I know it's the Memorial Day doldrums, but this article could have been much better/longer. Compare feature with some of the best-of-breed and some of the price-sensitive models - why aren't they solving the problem?