The DirecTV Universal Remote Control

Have you recently purchased a Universal Remote Control through DirecTV? You may be looking at it, wondering what is so special about this new DVR remote. In solid black or blue, it certainly looks more sophisticated than the original DVR remote. And its improved functions are actually equal to its improved looks.

For example, you may have been using a remote for your TV, another for your stereo sound equipment, another for your VCR, and yet another for your DVR. With this new DVR remote, you can program each of these devices to respond to the one remote.

This universal remote can actually be programmed to turn on and off the power of all four devices simultaneously. You will simply need to hold down the power button for three seconds to get all four to turn on or off.

If you’re watching TV in the dark, it may be helpful to know that you can press any of the most commonly used buttons on the remote to activate the backlighting that lights them all up. It also has an ID lock so you can program it to work exclusively with a particular DVR receiver, thereby preventing interference with a second DVR box nearby.

When you are programming your electronic devices with a universal remote, one of the biggest hassles is figuring out the right code you need for each one. Then you may have to type these all in and hope you don’t get one digit wrong and have to start over. Well, the new DirecTV universal remote has got you covered.

For the most common current VCR’s, TV’s, and stereos, you will find a list of codes programmed into the DVR remote. So, you can scroll through the list and find your name brand and item without breaking a sweat. If, on the other hand, you prefer your vintage TV to those newfangled offerings, the DirecTV universal remote has a code search for older electronics.

Now that you know what your new DVR remote is capable of, you can start programming it to your home devices. Just go to the product manual and follow the simple instructions and you’ll be sitting back and enjoying the benefits of universal control, in a matter of minutes.

 

The Difference Between Infrared and Bluetooth

We’ve talked about how remotes use infrared light pulses to communicate to your TV. We will now discuss how Bluetooth technology is different from infrared technology. Each has its useful place when used in remotes.

Your DirecTV remote, like most other home theater remotes, uses infrared signals. These remotes function best when the components remain in a fairly stable position. The remote has to be in a direct line of sight with the component or device for it to work.

Bluetooth technology uses radio waves. Unlike infrared signals, the Bluetooth signal is spread over a wider area, can travel farther, and does not require a clear line of sight path between components. Bluetooth also has the added benefit that it can interface with various devices all at the same time.

Bluetooth technology is used in mobile phone earpieces as a remote control for the phone. Bluetooth technology is also used in gaming applications, such as Nintendo’s Wii. Bluetooth will continue to work well, even though the person holding the remote is moving all around.

Infrared devices must use a code to receive and act on the information, thus only one device at a time can interface with the remote. Bluetooth technology can connect to multiple devices at the same time. It can form networks between the various components.

Because of the Omni directional nature of Bluetooth, the transmissions are less secure. Bluetooth radio waves are transmitted at 2.4 gigahertz. Infrared transmissions are more secure because to intercept the transmission you must be in the line of sight between the sender and receiver.

Both Bluetooth and infrared technologies consume less power than other types of remotes. Both have their useful applications, and both remain widely used. They are, however, competing technologies in today’s market.

Your DirecTV remote will continue giving you reliable service for many years. Many TV remotes, such as your DirecTV remote, will continue using infrared technology. Many gaming applications will continue making improvements in Bluetooth technology. Who knows what the future will bring.

 

Infrared and Your Remote

One of the first remotes invented was by Nikola Tesla who demonstrated a radio controlled boat in 1898. Remotes were used extensively during both World Wars and continue to be used by the military today. Other remotes soon followed, including your DirecTV remote.

Today most of us use a remote on a daily basis. Indeed our remotes often control more functions that the actual buttons on the device. Some of my devices don’t function properly unless you have the remote to change it to the right settings.

Most of the remotes used in our home theater settings use an infrared light system to transmit the information. Infrared light is light that is lower on the light spectrum than what we can see with our eyes. This light generates heat and is what makes us feel warm when we sit in the sun.

Many things, besides sunlight, generate infrared light. Simply rubbing your hands together briskly to make them feel warm will generate infrared light. A hot cup of cocoa, a lamp, or even our body heat can also give off infrared light.

Since infrared light is so common, even though we can’t see it, our electronic devices have to have some way of knowing when the signal is for real. Since many of us also have several remotes, each system also has to have some way of knowing which signal is meant for which device. This isn’t done by the wave length, as most of these devices operate at around 40kHz.

You can think of the infrared signal as a series of flashes of light similar to Morse code. It is the amount of time between the flashes and the length of each flash that determines if the device will recognize and accept the signal or not. There has to be a code embedded into the light flashes that lets each device know when to pay attention to the light it perceives.

Once the device recognizes the signal is meant for it, then it must accept the rest of the coded information and translate it to complete the command. If you want to use a Universal remote to control all your devices, you must first find the command code for each device. This is necessary so the devices will accept the codes coming from the Universal remote.

Your DirecTV remote is programmed to work with your receiver. It can also be programmed to work with most TVs, but unfortunately some don’t have compatible signals. DirecTV remotes make channel surfing a lot more fun.

 

How Your Remote Works

Remote controls were used during both World Wars. Remotes have now become so commonplace that we don’t know how to function without them. Indeed, some of our devices don’t fully function without them.

To use a LED remote, the device itself must also have an infrared receiver on the front to “see” the light. You have no doubt noticed that some remotes only work when directly pointed at the device, while others only have to be facing the general area. This has to do with the strength of the transmitting LED. Those with more than one LED or a powerful LED produce a stronger, broader signal.

When you push a button on your remote, the other side touches a contact, which completes an integrated circuit specific to that button. This integrated circuit sends the signal on to the LED at the front of the remote. The LED then flashes a series of light pulses corresponding to that command.

The device’s infrared receiver perceives the light pulses and translates them into the command. That command is passed on to the device so it performs the action according to the signal sent. The signal is somewhat more complicated than that as it has to give a start command at the beginning and a stop command at the end.

Although this is great technology, using infrared light has its limitations. The signal will only go about 30 feet or so, and has to have a clear path or “line of sight” between the remote and device. Sometimes other light sources can also cause interference.

Radio remote controls are very popular for controlling toy cars, garage door openers, car alarms and many other things. Instead of sending out light signals, radio remotes send out radio signals. Their main advantage is that they increase the distance to about 100 feet, and don’t have to have a line of sight between the remote and receiver since they can go through walls.

While most home theater remotes use the LED infrared technology, some do use radio signals. Bluetooth technology is another form of radio technology, but over a shorter distance. Your DirecTV remote uses one of these systems to communicate its signals.

The technology in your DirecTV remote allows you to sit in comfort while controlling what you watch on TV. The next time you push a button on your DirecTV remote, maybe you’ll take a second to think about the technology involved. Then again, maybe not.

 

Programming Your DirecTV Remote

You plop down on the couch to watch TV. You want to change the channel, but have a drawer full of remotes, so it takes a while to find the right one. There’s a remote for the DVD player, stereo, Blu-ray player, and even one for the old VCR.

You finally find your DirecTV remote. You try changing the channel, but find out it hasn’t yet been programmed. Well, now is as good a time as any to get it programmed and working right, so let’s get started.

First of all, press the “Menu” button on your DirecTV remote. Now select “Parental, Favs and Setup”, then “System setup.” Now select “Remote” and then “Program remote.”

While aiming your remote at the device, you can follow the on-screen directions to program your remote to work with your TV, DVD player or other device. Here are some more helps for programming your remote to work with your TV. Of course you have to have a TV that is compatible with the remote.

First you should look up the control codes for your DirecTV remote. With your TV turned on, switch the slide on top of the remote to “TV”. Press and hold the “Mute” button, which is located above the number 1 button.

Keep holding down the Mute button while you press and hold the “Select” button until the green light on top of the remote flashes twice. Enter the first control code you have, and the lights should again flash twice. Aim your remote at the TV and press the power button to see if it works.

If your remote will turn the TV on and off and change the volume, you slide the switch on top back to the left. If all went well, your remote should now be programmed. If it didn’t work, you need to repeat these steps using the next control code for your TV until you find the right one.

DirecTV remotes are guaranteed to program to their receivers. Unfortunately they are not guaranteed to work with all TVs. Hopefully you have a compatible TV and can now get back to watching it.

 

What Batteries Should I Use?

This Christmas Santa may have brought you new toys or gadgets that use batteries. Or you may be wondering how can you know which batteries are the best to use for your DirecTV remote? What difference is there in the kind of batteries used anyway?

Despite advertising claims, there really isn’t much difference between the same kinds of batteries of different brands, as far as energy output goes. While it is OK to mix brands, it is important not to mix battery types such as NiCads, NiMH and alkaline batteries. As long as all the batteries you use together are the same type, it doesn’t matter what kind of battery you use.

There is a slight difference in voltage output between alkaline batteries, NiCad or NiMH batteries. The rechargeable batteries put out slightly less of a charge than the alkaline counterparts. With one battery, there isn’t enough difference to matter.

When a device uses multiple batteries, however, that slight difference can add up. Sometimes the device will still work, sluggishly. Sometimes the device won’t work at all since there isn’t enough power to operate it. That is why some devices specify which types of batteries are acceptable.

Higher temperatures, over 90 degrees, cause batteries to lose their charge faster. Refrigerating batteries doesn’t prolong their life however, unless your house is usually hotter than 90 degrees. Leaving batteries in a hot car, however, will shorten their life span dramatically.

When replacing batteries, often only one of the batteries is really dead. If you have an inexpensive battery tester, you can find out which battery really needs replacing. This can save you a lot of money over time, since you will no longer be throwing away good batteries.

Alkaline batteries lose voltage gradually. When a battery drops to the middle range on a battery tester, it still has about half it’s life left. Testing your batteries can let you know when they are truly dead.

When replacing batteries in your DirecTV remote remember to only use the same kind. Testing your batteries will let you know if they are giving you the maximum power. With full power to your batteries, your DirecTV remote will keep on working no matter how many channels you surf.

 

Taking Care of Your DirecTV Remotes

Remote controls are pretty small objects. Because of this there are many ways that they can break if you’re not careful. This is especially true for households with young children or animals. Sometimes these breaks can be fixed while other times they can’t

A DirecTV remote is an essential part of the DirecTV system. There are functions that won’t be able to be performed without the actual DirecTV remote. This is why it’s so important to have a working DirecTV remote around.

Before we discuss what to do when your remote breaks, it’s necessary to know how to prevent breaks. Many people make the mistake of leaving their remote all around the house. Leaving your remote out only increases the chances it has of getting broken.

Another reason that remote controls break is from food or drinks. Liquid damage can rarely be fixed. If you are going to be eating or drinking while using your remote, make sure you’re very careful.

If your DirecTV remote does get damaged in any way, you will want to get it fixed as soon as possible. There are times that your remote can be fixed easily on your own, but many times it will require a replacement. There are a few things to look at before you assume the remote is completely gone.

First, check the batteries. This may seem obvious but many people forget to do this before they try fixing other things. Batteries are an easy fix that anyone should be able to do.

If your remote is rusting or corroding inside, it may be too late to fix it. Sometimes you can clean it off with a dry cloth, but never try using anything wet. Corrosion or rust is a sign of something going wrong. It can be bad batteries or liquid damage.

There are so many things that can break a remote. It’s important to take proper care of it to avoid any unnecessary breaks. Sometimes breaks are inevitable and you may even have to replace the entire remote. Other times you may be able to fix it yourself. Either way, having a working remote is important especially if it’s your DirecTV remote.

 

Benefits of DirecTV

DirecTV is a satellite television company that provides excellent television broadcast. There are many reasons some will choose satellite TV over other forms of TV. This article will explain just a few of the benefits that DirecTV and other satellite companies have to offer.

One thing that attracts many people to subscribing to DirecTV is the variety of packages they offer. Not all people need everything that cable TV or digital cable has to offer. They may want to pay less for a simpler package or pay more for a more complex package.

Another benefit is their high quality broadcasting. If you’re looking for a very high quality television system, this may be just what you need. The picture and sound are clearer allowing you to more fully enjoy your show.

The cost of satellite TV, specifically DirecTV is also something that draws people in. Cost for many satellite packages is very affordable. You are able to pay for the service that is just right for you allowing you to save money that would otherwise be wasted.

The installation of DirecTV is normally very quick. Most companies including DirecTV provide you with great service that will get your dish up and running in a timely manner. They will be able to help you with any concerns you might have about the installation and keep up of the satellite dish.

Customer service for DirecTV is very reputable. They are able to help you with any problem that may come up. Many people praise the satellite companies for being so on top of their customer care department.

When you’re set up with DirecTV, you will be amazed at all they have to offer. You will be given a DirecTV remote as part of your package. Using your DirecTV remote you can browse all of the many channels and find exactly what you’re looking for. If you read through the manuals you’re given you will learn just how to use your DirecTV remote.

Satellite TV is just one of many ways someone can watch TV. Many people prefer satellite companies like DirecTV because of their cost, quality, customer satisfaction, variety, and quick installation. It may just be the right for you too.

 

Entertainment Today

There are many things that people like to do in their free time. Entertainment is a big part of our lives today. It helps us wind down from a long workday or simply enjoy some time with friends and family.

Because people have such a variety of hobbies and interests, there is also a large variety of entertainment. This makes it so that everyone can find things they like to do. Whether it’s in your own home or out on the town, entertainment is readily available.

Television is one very popular form of entertainment. Many people watch TV because it’s relaxing and doesn’t require any energy. If you have a good cable or dish network you will also have a large variety of programs to fit the needs of almost any person.

DirecTV is one dish network that provides a numerous amount of channels. You can also use the DirecTV remote so you don’t have to get up to do anything. Using a DirecTV remote really allows you to relax and be entertained at the same time. Without a DirecTV remote watching TV just wouldn’t be as entertaining because it would require a lot more work.

Aside from television, another form of entertainment is dining out. Eating is a very large part of our lives and finding a good restaurant is a great way to be entertained and enjoy your time. Some restaurants have music and other things to watch while others are more basic with just tables.

Some restaurants are also partnered with other forms of entertainment. Many restaurants also provide dancing, shows, or even concerts to enjoy while you are eating. These are very popular because you only have to go to one place to enjoy your whole night.

Other forms of entertainment include movie theaters, sports games, or simply visiting with friends. Almost anything that someone might enjoy can be classified as entertainment. It doesn’t even have to cost money.

There are many types of entertainment. Some involve exercise and sports while others are more laid back like movie theaters and shows. No matter what your interests are, there is bound to be something just for you.

 

Different Types of Remotes

Remotes are such a big part of our lives. Imagine watching TV without access to a remote. Chances are this has happened to you before and has been quite the frustration.

Remotes allow us to be able to sit on our couches and control all of our devices with the click of a button. There are many different kinds of remotes out there. Most will be used for televisions and their adjoining components like DVD players, speakers, and cable or dish network devices.

Remotes allow us to control devices from an extended location. They also allow us to perform functions that aren’t otherwise available. Many shortcuts are available on remotes that can really save you time.

There are remotes for computers such as the Mac computer. This remote will control volume, menu options and other audio and video components. The nice thing about a Mac remote is the size and shape.

When you purchase a new TV you will most likely be provided with a TV remote. This remote will control your TV and it’s settings. Sometimes you can link your TV to a different remote in order to cut out the number of remotes you have laying around.

Television companies also give you a remote. If your television company happens to be DirecTV, you will get a DirecTV remote that might also be able to control your other devices. DirecTV remotes will need to be used because DirecTV remotes are made specifically for managing your shows.

Another remote that has become quite common is a universal remote. Universal remotes are sold in variety stores. They provide its users with a way to combine all their remotes into one.

Remotes have become such a natural way of life for us. There are remotes for many of the devices that we use today. They give us a great ability to control our devices from the comfort of our own couch.