Universal Remote Control

[gatorz95]

I'm thinking of ordering an Mx-980 Universal remote. I prefer the one handed remotes and this one seems to have it all. Comments from users out there with pros/cons would be appreciated.

Thanks

 

[MDS]

I've used the older MX-500 and currently have an MX-350. URC remotes are easy to set up and use and very powerful. I don't think you'll be disappointed.

 

[bandphan]

The 980 is now programmed in .ccf so design is very open. I use the 950 which is the previous version and it works great. Are you going to be programming it?

 

[gatorz95]

I don't intend to program it myself for the initial setup, but I envision making mods thru the years so I don't want to have to call somebody out to re-program.

Thanks

 

[bandphan]

I don't intend to program it myself for the initial setup, but I envision making mods thru the years so I don't want to have to call somebody out to re-program.

Thanks

Are you going to couple the remote with a RF base station like the mcs400? Also just make sure you get a copy of the software.

 

[Hi Ho]

I work with URC remotes at work and I love them. I got my MX-900 just before the 980 came out. I would have a 980 otherwise. I don't think you will be disappointed at all. The 980 is extremely flexible and is capable of just about anything you would ever need. I use my 900 with an MRF-350 base station and I would not go without RF control even if the components are line of sight (mine aren't). RF makes the macros extremely reliable.

Programming URC remotes is nothing like the wizard based Harmony. This is a REALLY good thing for me as I really despise the Harmony programming process. It can be a little difficult to figure out if you don't know what you're doing but it is immensely more powerful and there are virtually no limits to what you can do. As mentioned earlier, make sure you get a copy of the software as it is not freely available.

 

[gatorz95]

I definately intend on getting an RF kit with it.

Will I be able to control my PS3 and Xbox from it?

As for the software, thanks for the heads up. Does the software come with the remote? Do installers usually avoid giving it out?

Thanks

 

[Hi Ho]

You will need an adaptor to use any universal remote with the PS3. You can buy a Bluetooth remote adaptor for PS3 for around $30. I have used the Nyko product and it works OK except that I had a hard time learning the codes into an MX-900. I think the Nyko I was using was defective though as I haven't heard of any other issues. I believe the codes are now in the URC code database as well which means no need to learn codes. While I have never used it, I believe the IR2BT device is more flexible/powerful but also significantly more expensive. It was a bad move by Sony not to include IR support. Sure, a Bluetooth remote is nice but at least throw in a simple IR sensor for those who prefer to use a different remote. /RANT

The Xbox has an IR sensor and works perfect. I use my MX-900 to control my Xbox and run Media Center. The only issue i have is getting the Xbox to power on and off consistently but I believe that is related to the fact that the IR blaster is routed through my receiver because I ran out of ports on my MRF unit.

The URC "Proffesional" remotes are meant to be programmed by proffesionals and they don't give out the software like candy. You have to get it from an authorized dealer. Your dealer should give you the software if you ask for it.

 

[bandphan]

I definately intend on getting an RF kit with it.

Will I be able to control my PS3 and Xbox from it?

As for the software, thanks for the heads up. Does the software come with the remote? Do installers usually avoid giving it out?

Thanks

The software does not come with the remote. For this level of remote most installers (me) do not have issues with giving a copy as no code has to be written. If you run into issues PM me. Controlling the PS3 will require an adapter not sure about the xbox as I've never done one. Get at least the mx350 for the RF if not the 400. The 400 will allow you to program all the macros directly to the unit which is nice. Also it has RS232 control. This remote is as good as it gets without moving up to 2 way control. Enjoy.