3-048-656-12 (1)

Integrated Remote Commander

Operating Instructions

RM-VL900

2000 Sony Corporation

For the customers in the U.S.A. WARNING
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. The equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment causes harmful interference to radio or televison reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures: Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver. Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected. Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help. You are cautioned that any changes or modifications not expressly approved in this manual could void your authority to operate this equipment.

Features

The RM-VL900 Remote Commander provides centralized control of all your AV components from a single remote commander and saves the trouble of operating different AV components with different remote control devices. The following are its main features.
Centralized control of Sony AV components with this one remote commander
This Commander is preset at the factory to operate Sony brand components, so you can use it out of the box as a control center for your Sony AV components.
Remote control signals for non-Sony components are also preset
This Commander is preset for most major brands components including Sony. You can remote control your components by setting their code numbers (page 8).
Learning function for programming other remote control signals you need
This Commander has a Learning function, to learn remote control signals to operate non-preset components or functions (page 15). In addition, the Commander can learn remote control signals (infrared signals only) of non-Audio Visual components such as air-conditioners, lights, etc. (some specific appliances or functions may not be available) (page 35).
Reassigning new components
You can assign other Component Select buttons to freely operate other components. This is useful when you have more than two of the same kind of AV components (page 32).
System Control function allows one-touch operation to execute a series of commands
You can program up to 16 consecutive operation steps to execute a series of operations by pressing a single button (page 23).
Data can be transferred between remote commanders with the mark
You can transfer the data such as learned signals and component code settings between this Commander and another Sony remote commander with the mark. It will save the trouble of performing the same operations again for setting (page 38).

2 Press S (set).
All Component Select buttons flash.
* Analog audio compact cassette deck
CBL and VD can be set to any of the above Component Select buttons, and so can the others respectively. See Table of Preset Functions (page 50) for the functions of buttons as for each component.
3 Press the Component Select
button for the desired component.
The selected Component button lights up, and all other buttons turn off.
If you press a component code number that is not on the table in the supplied Component Code Numbers, or if you press a button in an improper order, the Component button flashes five times, and then turns off. Check the component code number, and try setting again. If you dont input anything into the Commander for over 20 seconds between each step, the setup procedure will be canceled. To set the code, start over from Step 2. If you press S (set) while setting the component code, all code numbers will be lost, and the setup procedure will be canceled. Start over from Step 2.
4 Press the Number buttons
to enter the three-digit component code number.
The selected Component button turns off each time you press a Number button.
To cancel setup, press S (set).

5 Press ENT.

The Component button turns off.
If the Component button flashes five times before turning off, it means that the setup is incomplete. Start over from Step 2.

Continued

Setting the Code for Preset Audio and Visual Components (continued)
If the Commander does not seem to be working
Try repeating the setup procedures using the other codes listed for your components, or try setting the code number using the Search function (page 11).
Checking if the code number works 1 Press the corresponding
Component Select button for the component you have set up.
The Component button lights up when you press it, and turns off when you release it.
Note on the VOL+/ and MUTING buttons
When you operate a visual component, the TV button lights up to indicate that the Commander is controlling or muting the TVs volume.

2 Power on the component

with its power switch.
When you operate an audio component, the AMP button lights up to indicate that the Commander is controlling or muting the amplifiers volume.
3 Aim the Commander at the
component and press POWER.
The selected Component button lights up when you press a function button, and turns off when you release it.
It is recommended that you first set the TV and AMP codes before setting up any other components.

Note on buttons that have already learned remote control signals
If another signal has already been programmed on that button using the Learning function (page 15), that learned signal will work even after you set the component code number. To use it as a preset function button, first erase its learned signal (page 19).
The component should power off.

4 If you have succeeded,

check that the Commander is operating the other functions of your component, such as channel and volume control.

See page 50 for details.

Setting a component code by the Search function
You can find a code number available for a component that doesnt have one in the supplied Component Code Numbers.

1 Press S (set).

Before starting the Search function
Set each component to the following status so that the Search function works effectively. TV: Power-on VCR, SAT, CBL, DVD, AMP: Power-off VD, CD, MD, TAPE: Power-on with a playback source (disc, cassette tape, etc.)
2 Press the Component Select

3 Press CH + or CH and

POWER in turn until the component reacts as decribed in the following.
Powers off: TV Powers on: VCR, SAT, CBL, DVD, AMP Plays back: VD, CD, MD, TAPE
Press CH + to go to the next code number. Press CH to go back to the previous code number. The Component button flashes three times after the numbers have turned one cycle.
Always be sure to first press CH+/before pressing POWER. Otherwise the Search function does not work properly.

4 Press ENT.

Operating Your Components with the Remote Commander
When you operate a non-Sony component, make sure you set the component code first (page 8).
5 Check if the code number
works by following the instructions on page 10.
Example: To play a CD player

1 Press the desired

Component Select button.
2 Press any Player Control

button.

See Table of Preset Functions (page 50) for the functions of buttons for each component.
The remote control signals may be different for some components or functions. In this case, program the remote control signals with the Learning function (see page 15). Note, however, that components and functions that do not support the remote control of infrared signals will not work with this Commander.

To control the volume

Press VOL +/ to control the volume, and MUTING to mute. When you select a visual component, the TVs volume will be controlled (the TV button lights up), and when you select an audio component, the amplifier s volume will be controlled (the AMP button lights up). You can change this setting also (page 21).
If you have programmed any signal on the VOL +/ or MUTING button of any component by the Learning function (page 15), that signal will be transmitted instead of controlling the volume of the TV or amplifier when you select that component. If you have programmed any signal on the VOL +/ or MUTING button of TV or AMP by the Learning function, that signal will be transmitted only when you select TV or AMP. When you select other components, the preset volume control signals for TV or AMP will be transmitted. If you have assigned another component to the TV or AMP button (page 32), the volume of the TV or amplifier cannot be controlled even when you select other components.
Operating Your Components with the Remote Commander (continued)
About the input select of a TV
Each time the TV/VIDEO button is pressed, the input is changed in order. It is also possible to select directly as follows when you are connecting more than two VCRs. TV/VIDEO + 0 : TV tuner TV/VIDEO + 1 : VIDEO1 TV/VIDEO + 2 : VIDEO2 TV/VIDEO + 3 : VIDEO3 TV/VIDEO + 4 : VIDEO4 TV/VIDEO + 5 : VIDEO5 TV/VIDEO + 6 : VIDEO6 If the above operations do not work, program the remote control signals of your component to the Commander using the Learning function (page 15).
Notes on operating your components
When you use a double cassette deck
1 If the remote control for your deck has a Deck A/B select control, the RECALL button on your Commander has the corresponding function.
2 If you cannot select Deck A/B with the RECALL button, first set the number code for either one of the decks, and set the function controls for the other deck to other free buttons (for example, the Number buttons) using the Learning function (page 15),
About the input select of a VCR

5 Press and hold the button
on the other remote control, until both the S (set) indicator and the Component button light up again.
During data transfer, only the S (set) indicator stays lit, and the Component button turns off. After data transfer is complete, the Commander returns to its state in Step 3.
If you do not perform Learning steps within 20 seconds at any point during the process, Learning mode ends. If you do not perform Step 5 within 10 seconds after Step 4, Learning mode ends.
If the learned button does not operate properly, teach once again. (For example, if the volume becomes very loud after pressing VOL+ only once, noise may have interfered during the Learning procedure.)
remote control of component
If you set a component code after learning a signal
If you have programmed any signal on a button by the Learning function, that signal will work even after you set a component code.
When you teach the signals for a double cassette deck
Press RECALL to select Deck A or B.

Note on the REC z signal

You can only teach to one button at at time. Therefore you cannot teach a sequential button operation (for example REC z + B) to a single button on your Commander. during data transfer data transfer complete

6 Repeat Steps 4 to 5 to

teach functions to other buttons.
To learn another components remote control signal
After positioning the two remote commanders as in Step 1 on page 15, press the corresponding Component Select button, and then follow Steps 4 to 5 to perform Learning.
7 Press S (set) to finish

setting.

For accurate Learning
Do not move the remote units during the Learning procedure. Be sure to keep holding down the learning button until your Commander reacts as described. Use fresh batteries in both remote units. Avoid Learning in places under direct sunlight or a strong fluorescent light. The remote control detector area may differ depending on each remote unit. If Learning does not work, try changing the positions of the two remote control units. When you teach signals of an interactive signal exchange system remote control unit (supplied with some of Sonys receivers and amplifiers) to the Commander, the response signal of the main unit may interfere with the learning of the Commander. In such a case, move to a place where the signals will not reach the main unit (e.g. other rooms, etc.).

When you teach signals to the VOL +/ or MUTING buttons
If you have programmed any signal on the VOL +/ or MUTING button for components other than TV and AMP using the Learning function, that signal will be transmitted only when you select that component. If you have programmed any signal on the VOL +/ or MUTING button for TV or AMP using the Learning function, that signal will be transmitted only after you select TV or AMP. When you select other components, the preset volume control signals for TV or AMP will be transmitted (for the difference between visual components and audio components, see page 21). To use the learned signal, you need to program the VOL +/ or MUTING button for each component using the Learning function.

IMPORTANT

Be sure to place the Commander out of the reach of small children or pets. Components such as air conditioners, heaters, electric appliances, and electric shutters or curtains receiving an infrared signal can be dangerous if misused.
To teach the signals for an airconditioner
See Programming a Frequently Used Key Operation for SYSTEM CONTROL Buttons on page 35.
Changing or erasing the function of a learned button
To change the learned function, clear it first and perform Learning again.
Example: To erase the learned function from the Number button 1 in VCR mode.
1 Press and hold S (set) for
To clear the learned function of a single button
2 While holding the desired
Component Select button pressed, press the button you want to erase.
The S (set) indicator turns off, and the selected Component button lights up.
Be sure to press both buttons at once. If you release the Component Select button, the Commander changes to Learning mode.
3 Press S (set) to finish
2 While holding x pressed,
press the desired Component Select button.
To clear all function signals learned for a specific component
Through this operation, you can only erase the learned functions of all buttons for a specific component and the Channel Macro function. The learned functions for the Component Select buttons cannot be changed here. You must be sure beforehand of which learned function you want to erase.
Example: To erase all functions learned by VCR button.
Controlling the Volume of Visual Components Connected to an Audio System
The Commander is factory preset based on the assumption that you hear the sound of your visual components from your TV speakers, and that you hear sound of your audio components from the loudspeakers connected to your amplifier. This feature enables you to control the volume of your TV or amplifier without having to select TV or AMP each time you want to control the volume. For example, to control the volume while using a VCR, you dont need to press the TV button to control the TV volume. The following table shows the factory setting of which volume would be controlled for each component.

Component Select buttons whose interval you want to change pressed, press one of the Number buttons (1 4) to select the interval.
The Component Select button lights up when you press these buttons, and turns off when you release them.
Example: To program the TV button

2 While holding POWER

pressed, press the desired Component Select button.
When you first press POWER, only the Component Select buttons that have already been set with the Power-On command light up. These buttons turn off when you press another Component button. Example: If the Power-On command has been programmed on the VCR and CD buttons, these buttons light up when you first press POWER.
To clear the Power-On command
Repeat the same procedure by pressing the Component Select button that lights up when you press POWER.
If the component code of a non-Sony brand has been set on a Component Select button, you cannot program the Power-On function on it. The selected Component button flashes twice, and the Commander returns to its state in Step 1. Even if you have programmed a signal by the Learning function (page 15) or the System Control function (page 27) on a Component Select button, you can program the PowerOn function on that button but it cannot be used. If you clear a learned signal or the System Control function on the button, you can use the Power-On function. You can program a signal by the Learning function (page 15) or the System Control function (page 27) on the Component Select button on which the Power-On function has been programmed. In this case, the Power-On function is overwritten and cannot be used. If you clear the learned signal or the System Control function on the button, the Power-On function is resumed and you can use it again. If you have programmed both a signal by Learning and the System Control function on the button, the learned signal overwrites the System Control function.
Assigning Other Components to the Component Select Buttons
You can assign another component to any of the Component Select buttons.
Once you assign another component to a Component Select button, the setting of the component code number (page 8) will be erased. The component code number will not return even if you reset the newly assigned component and turn back to the original component. If you have assigned another component to the TV or AMP button, the volume of the TV or amplifier cannot be controlled even when you select other components.

Example: To assign a CD player to the VCR button
button to which you want to assign a function.
The selected Component button lights up.
3 While holding N pressed,
press one of the following Number buttons to select the one to which you want to assign the function.
The selected Component button and the previously assigned Component button light up.
In this example, press the Number 5 button to select CD. 1: VCR 2: VD 3: SAT 4: AMP 5: CD 6: TAPE
Only the function to this step is assigned. Other learned functions are not assigned.
To reset a Component Select button to its original setting
7: MD 8: TV 9: CBL 0: DVD
Through this operation, you can only erase the learned functions to all buttons on a specific component and the Channel Macro function. The learned functions to the Component Select buttons cannot be changed here. You must be sure beforehand, of which learned function you want to erase.

4 If you need to set the

component code, follow the steps on pages 8 or 11. If you need to program some signals by the Learning function, follow the Steps 1 and 3 to 7 on pages 15 to 17.
Assigning Other Components to the Component Select Buttons (continued)
2 Press and hold for over 3
seconds the desired Component Select button to which you want to copy a setting from another component.
The selected Component button lights up, and all other buttons flash rapidly.
Copying the settings of a Component Select button to another button
You can copy the entire settings of a Component Select button to another Component Select button. The settings of the component code (page 8), the Channel Macro function (page 43), and the learned function (page 15) are copied to a new button.
You cannot copy the settings to a Component Select button on which any learned function or Channel Macro function has been programmed.

3 Keep holding down this

Component button, and press the Component button that holds the setting you want to copy.
Both Component buttons light up when you press them, and turn off when you release them.
Example: To copy the settings of the CD button to the VCR button
At this point, all settings for CD are imported to VCR.
Programming a Frequently Used Key Operation for SYSTEM CONTROL Buttons
In addition to their original System Control functions (see page 23), SYSTEM CONTROL 1, 2 or 3 buttons can be programmed to learn any remote control signal. As they operate independently from other buttons, SYSTEM CONTROL 1, 2 or 3 buttons can work as one-touch buttons without any preceding operation such as pressing a Component Select button to select a component. This is useful if you prefer having the SYSTEM CONTROL button as a one-touch button for a single operation rather than executing a series of commands.

Example: To store the On/Off signal of an air-conditioner to the SYSTEM CONTROL 2 button
1 Place the Commander head
to head with the remote control of the airconditioner.
Remote control of your air-conditioner

more than 3 seconds.

Programming a Frequently Used Key Operation for SYSTEM CONTROL Buttons (continued)
remote control of air-conditioner

3 Press SYSTEM

The S (set) indicator flashes (Learning function standby).

during data transfer

If other functions have already been learned by that button
The S (set) indicator flashes twice, and the Commander returns to its state in Step 2. Either teach to another SYSTEM CONTROL button, or clear the already learned function (page 37) and start over from the beginning.

data transfer complete

4 Press the ON/OFF button
on the remote control of the air-conditioner until the Commander reacts as shown below.
During data transfer, only the S (set) indicator stays lit and the Component buttons turn off. After data transfer is complete, the Commander returns to its state in Step 2.
5 Press S (set) to finish
You can program a remote control signal for a SYSTEM CONTROL button by learning for which the System Control functions have been programmed. In this case, the System Control functions are overwritten and cannot be used. If you clear the learned signal from the button (page 37), the System Control functions are restored, and you can use them again.
To clear the learned remote control signal
If the power-on/off operation does not work correctly
The air-conditioner may not be turned on or off properly with the button of this Commander to which you have programmed its power-on/off signal. If the Commander can operate only ON with one button and OFF with another, while your air-conditioners remote control can operate ON/OFF with a single button, program the signal on two buttons of the Commander as follows. 1 Clear the learned power-on/ off signal. (In the example on page 35, clear the learned signal from the SYSTEM CONTROL 2 button.) 2 Program the signal (transmitted from the power-on/off button of the air-conditioners remote control) for the SYSTEM CONTROL 2 button again. 3 Program the signal from the same button of the remote control for another button (for example, the SYSTEM CONTROL 3 button).

If you enter more than four keys, the last four keys are programmed on the macro key. If the macro key has been successfully programmed, both the S (set) indicator and the Component button turn off. If an error occured, both the S (set) indicator and the Component button flash five times, and the Commander returns to its state in Step 2.
3 Press S (set) to finish setting.

Locking the Controls

Hold Function To prevent accidental operation, you can lock all the buttons with the Hold function.
When the function keys are locked, all Component Select buttons flash twice when you press a control button.

(twice)

To unlock the control
Repeat the former procedure. The S (set) indicator flashes twice, and the Hold function is disabled.

1 While holding POWER

pressed, press MUTING and RECALL.
The S (set) indicator lights up when you press these buttons, and turns off when you release them.

Precautions

Do not drop the unit or give a shock to the unit, or it may cause a malfunction. Do not leave the unit in a location hear heat sources, or in a place subject to direct sunlight, excessive dust or sand, moisture, rain or mechanical shock. Do not put foreign objects into the unit. Should any liquid or solid object fall into the unit, have it checked by qualified personnel before operating the unit any further. Do not expose the remote control detectors of your components to direct sunlight or other strong illumination. Too much light there can interfere with remote control operations. Be sure to place the Commander out of the reach of small children or pets. Components such as air conditioners, heaters, electric appliances, and electric shutters or curtains receiving an infrared signal can be dangerous if misused.

Specifications

Operating distance
Approx. 32.8 ft. (10 m) (varies depending on components of different manufacturers)

Power requirements

Four size AA (R6) batteries

Battery life

Approx. 5 months (varies depending on frequency of use)

Dimensions

Approx. 2 7/1/1/2 in. (26 mm) (w h d) 5 oz (155 g) (not including batteries)
Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.
The CE mark on the unit is valid only for products marketed in the European Union.

Troubleshooting

If you have problems setting up or using the Remote Commander, first check the batteries (page 6), then check the items below.
Symptom You cannot operate the components. Remedy Go closer to the component. The maximum operating distance is approximately 32.8 ft. (10 m). Check that you are aiming the Commander directly at the compoent, and that there are no obstructions between the Commander and the component. Power on the components first, if necessary. Make sure you have pressed the correct Component Select button. In case of CBL/SAT, DVD or TAPE, make sure the desired component is selected. Check that the component has infrared remote capability. For example, if your component didnt come with a remote commander, it probably isnt capable of being controlled by a remote commander. You have assigned a different component on the Component Select button. Check the component assigned to that button and the component code. If your visual components are connected to an audio system, make sure youve set up the Commander as described in Controlling the Volume of Visual Components Connected to an Audio System (page 21). You have assigned another component on the TV or AMP button (page 32). In this case, the volume cannot be controlled when you select components other than TV or AMP. Set the component code correctly. If the code that is listed first for your component doesnt work, try all the codes for your component in the order in which they are listed in the supplied Component Code Numbers. Some features may not be preset. If some or all of the buttons do not function correctly even after you have set the component codes, then use the Learning function to program the remote control signals for the component (page 15). The component may be operated with a code number that is not listed in the Component Code Numbers. See Setting a component code by the Search function (page 11) and try setting a code number again with the Search function. When you teach signals of an interactive signal exchange system remote control unit (supplied with some of Sonys receivers and amplifiers) to the Commander, the response signal of the main unit may interfere with the learning of the Commander. In such a case, move to a place where the signals will not reach the main unit (e.g. other rooms, etc.). Make sure that the Remote Commander has learned the correct signals. If not, see For accurate Learning (page 18) and try the Learning procedure again (page 15).

KEY DISPLAY 0POWER FUNCTION To turn on and off.

CBL (Cable box)

KEY DISPLAY 0POWER 1qa 1 9, 0, ENT FUNCTION To turn on and off. To change the channel. For example, to change to channel 5, press 0 and 5 (or , press 5 and ENT.) Channel up :+ Channel down : To operate JUMP, FLASHBACK or CHANNEL RETURN function.
1qa To change the channel. 1 9, 0, ENT For example, to change to channel 5, press 0 and 5 (or, press 5 and ENT). 4DISPLAY To expose the on-screen display. 3TV/VIDEO To switch the antenna output. 7MENU To call the MENU display 6v To move the cursor upward. 6V 6B 6b 6OK 5m 5N 5M 5REC z To move the cursor downward. To move the cursor to the right. To move the cursor to the left. To enter the selection of the MENU display. To rewind. To play. To fast-forward. To record, press N while pressing REC z**. First release N, then release REC z. To stop. To pause. Channel up: + Channel down:

5x 5X qfCH +/

**In order to avoid recording by mistake, the REC z button does not work by itself.
Table of Preset Functions (continued)
KEY DISPLAY 0POWER 1qa 1 9, 0, ENT FUNCTION To turn on and off. To change the channel. For example, to change to channel 5, press 0 and 5 ( or, press 5 and ENT) To switch the output of the SAT receiver to the TV. (When you connect a TV cable or antenna to the receiver, the output switches between a TV and SAT program.) To turn on the display. To use the FAVORITE function. To bring up the Station Index. To bring up Master Guide. To call up the MENU display. To move the cursor upward. To move the cursor downward. To move the cursor to the right. To move the cursor to the left. To bring up the Station Index when a program guide is not displayed. To select the channel that is highlighted. Channel up : + Channel down : To return to the last tuned station
KEY DISPLAY 0POWER 11 9, 0 FUNCTION To turn on and off. Number buttons: To set items selected from the screen. To select numbers 10 and above. To enter the setting. To set items selected from the screen. To change the sound. To show the current play status on the screen. To clear the selected characters from the screen. To return to the last previous screen. To display the title menu. To switch the subtitle. To display the DVD menu. To move the cursor upward. To move the cursor downward. To move the cursor to the right. To move the cursor to the left. To execute items selected from the screen. To rewind. To play. To fast-foward To stop. To pause. To proceed to the next location or song. To proceed to the previous location or song.

2PIP qaENT

3TV/VIDEO
3TV/VIDEO 4DISPLAY qdGUIDE
4DISPLAY 2PIP qsSLEEP qdGUIDE 7MENU 6v 6V 6B 6b 6OK
qgRECALL 5REC z qsSLEEP 7MENU 6v 6V 6B 6b 6OK 5m 5N 5M 5x 5X qfCH + (>) qfCH (.)

VD (LD player)

KEY DISPLAY 0POWER 11 9, 0 FUNCTION To turn on and off. To select the track number. 0 selects track 10. To select track numbers above 10, see the descriptions on the +10 button below. To select numbers 10 and above. To enter the setting. To show the current play status on the screen. To rewind. To play. To fast-forward. To stop. To pause. To proceed to the next location or song. To proceed to the previous location or song.

Changing interval of the System Control function 29 CH (CHANNEL) button 11 Channel Macro function 43 Clearing/Changing Channel Macro function 44 learned signal 19, 20, 37 Power-On command 31 System Control function 26, 28 Code number 8, 11 Component Select buttons assigning other components 32 copying settings 34 programming a signal 15 programming System Control function 27 receiving data 42 setting Power-On function 30 transferring data 39 Copying data to another commander 38 settings of Component Select buttons 34

Receiving data 40

SYSTEM CONTROL buttons programming a signal 35 programming System control function 24 System Control function changing interval 29 clearing 26, 28 programming 24, 27 System Power-Off function SYSTEM CONTROL1 button 24
Transferring data 38 Troubleshooting 47

V, W, X, Y, Z

VOL buttons 10, 13, 17, 18, 22, 49 Volume Control 10, 13, 21
Erasing See Clearing/Changing

F, G, H

Factory setting 26, 33, 49

I, J, K

Input select 14
Learning Function 15, 35 Locking control of Commander 45
MUTING button 10, 13, 18, 22, 45
Number buttons 9, 14, 29, 30, 32, 33, 38, 41, 44
Sony Corporation Printed in Malaysia

A preliminary review of the Home Theater Master MX-700 Dual Remote System
Jim Christian (Revision 5-28-02)
I use this superb MX700 remote in my home theater, as I am a button guy. In the past I have owned the: a. b. c. d. e. f. g. Sony 2000 Sony 2100 Pronto 1000 Pronto 2000 MX500 URC515 Sony RM-VL900
and the MX series get my money. No other remote control can control my ~20 device HT system like the MX700. Incidentally, the manuals of many of the above remotes are at my Sony Remote Control web site at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/sonyremotecontrolmanuals/ The specs of the Home Theater Master MX-700 Dual Remote System from their web site are: Controls Up To 20 Components The MX-700 controls up to 20 components. Each of the 20 components can be programmed with up to 4 pages of LCD screens. Easy To Program A custom installer can use the MX-700 system software to quickly design a remote control program to meet their exact needs in minutes. The programming package also offers the Programming Wizard to lead the first time programmer step by step through the customization process. Windows Based PC Software The MX-700 allows you to tailor the text on each of the 87 LCD screens exactly as needed for every customer. Extensive Macro Programming The powerful memory of both the SideKick and the MX-700 offers over 900 macro buttons. Each macro button can send out up to 190 steps. The macro programming also includes numerous time delays as well as jump features to insure maximum flexibility. 50 Favorite Channels The MX-700 allows the user to program up to 50 favorite channels and the LCD screen will display the favorite channels that are programmed. This allows the users to access their favorite channel with one simple button press. Software Package With Over 1,000 IR Codes The MX-700 and its software package contain over 1,000 IR codes including hard to find and specific discreet codes that allow for precise control of all system components. The MX-700 also has the ability to learn over 1,500 new commands.
Ergonomic Design The strategically located buttons and ergonomic design of both the MX-700 and the SideKick make the operation of the most advanced system a pure pleasure. EL Back Lighting The bright backlight using the latest EL technology enables a customer to use both remote control units in a low light environment. Memory Back-Up The MX-700 system features a smart memory back-up system that will retain the programmed memory for up to ten years, even with dead batteries. Centrally Located Joystick The centrally located Joystick helps the user navigate through menus and guides with ease, a very convenient feature for DVD players, Satellite and Cable TV and Personal Video Recorders. Gemstone Buttons The GemStone buttons have a look and feel that instantly appeals to the customer. Unlike standard rubber buttons, these GemStone buttons add a very distinguished look to the remote controls that will compliment any high-end system. Sidekick The SideKick remote control has the ability to copy macro commands from the MX700 to provide simplified operation of the customer's system. Now every member of the family can enjoy their home theater system with ease. The SideKick could be used simply to turn on the TV or as an advanced system control sending out up to 190 macro commands from each button. MX-700 Features/Specifications: LCD Screen Size: Range: Batteries: Dimensions: Weight: 1.4" x 2.1" MX-700/200 - 40-60 feet depending upon components MX-700 - 4 AAA alkaline (Duracells Included) MX-200 - 2 AAA alkaline (Duracells Included) MX-700 - 9.0" x 3.0" x 1.3" (L x W x H) MX-200 - 5.8" x 1.7" x 1.3" (L x W x H) MX-700 - 8oz (with batteries) MX-200 - 5oz (with batteries) 1 year parts & labor $499.99

Warranty: List Price:

A. MY DEVICES:
1. I use the MX700 with the following devices:
a. b. c. d. e. f. g. h. i. j. k. l. m. n. o. p. q. r. s. t. u.

Pioneer DV-37 DVD player Toshiba 65H80 HDTV Sony SACD CD-player His and hers Philips DSR6000 DirecTV/TiVos Pioneer Minidisk Player Toshiba 6000 HDTV Set Top Box Dish Network 3000 Set Top Box Pioneer 301-CD Player Sony 9000ES A/V Preamp JVC 9800 S-VCR JVC-6700 S-VCR Sony R5 S-VCR 4DTV/HD200 HDTV, Big Dish receiver DMT-1050 MPEG2 receiver GI Navajo 401 Big Dish receiver Akai CD burner X10 3-to-1 A/V switch Service Menu access on my HDTV for fine-tuning it. Radio Shack Coax Switcher Pioneer Laser Disk

B. SUPPORT:

1. The best MX700 support forum is at http://www.remotecentral.com/cgi-bin/mboard/rc master/list.cgi 2. The manufacturers web site is http://www.universalremote.com/ and they can be contacted at: Universal Remote Control, Inc. 500 Mamaroneck Avenue Harrison, New York 10528 (800) 901-0800 (914) 835-4484 service@urcmx.com. Click here to view a map. 3. All manuals and software are at http://www.universalremote.com/htm/products/mx700manuals.html

C. Keypad:

1. I still struggle with the SELECT key, as it is similar to the new, MX500 GS2. Why, oh why, didn't they go back to the works-every time, flawless, original MX500 key? 2. I wish the MX700 had the CLONE function like my MX500 so I could start with all the work I had done with it.

D. Thumbpad:

1. The thumbpad is one of the bests feature of the remote for my needs, although the original MX500s is by far better due to its tactical feedback. 2.
E. MX Editor software (version 1):
1. The software is easy to use and I picked it up in minutes. 2. Id like to be able to change by dragging the device order on the left side, as the Pronto software allows. 3. I wish the software would synch any change immediately vs. downloading. No other remote has that, AFAIK. My Pronto doesnt. UMC could be the first. 3. The TEST function does little for me as my PC is in my HO and my HT is in the den. It was designed for HT installer with laptops, I would assume. 4. Devices cant be taught to the MX700 from an MX500, as you'll have to learn the IR codes from it one at a time. IMO, UMR has missed the boat by ignoring its large, existing user base. If they made it easier they could get more of them to upgrade. 5. I keep wanting to do a MAIN-ENT to fine tune it at my easy chair like Ive done so many times with the MX500. URC should put this back in as it is one of the most powerful features in any remote due to the way they implemented it. If they need ROM space just take the TEST feature out of the MX700 and announce a SideKick-less end user version. 6. I wish the MX700 picture were bigger in the editor as my eyes are getting bad.

F. SideKick:

1. I have little use for the SideKick in a 20-devic e system and recommend URC to: a. b. c. d. e. Unbundle it, Add consumer packaging, And a cable, Rewrite the manual for an end user, And set a street price of $300, ~$50 above the street price of a Pronto TSU2000.

URC is focusing on the HT installer market and it is much too limited IMHO, restricting the sales of this fine product. It is my bet that this will happen anyway once they see the next quarter shipment revenue is way under their forecast due to their small market focus.

G. Cable:

1. Make your own cable by going to http://www.surfremotecontrol.com/DIY-cable 2. You need to plug the cable in until you hear it click or the PC wont recognize it. 3. The MX-1000 cable is the same as the MX700s. 4. A Pronto cable is not the same. 5. The cable at the PC end is 9-pin RS232. USB is the standard now and I had IRQ conflicts that I had to spend a lot of time diagnosing due to this old DOS interface. Its time the Pronto and the MX700 gets up to date in their PC interfacing.
H. Solutions to problems:
1. If youre having problems connecting to your PC, try this: a. Reboot the PC. b. Do a partial download to the remote c. Do a full download to the remote d. Resume testing and programming. 2. I get the error code, Error Detected (MF: PUDM7). Continue? alot. It goes away when a get out of the editor and then bring it back. Error codes should be in English, IMHO. 3. After a failed download, my MX700 sometimes sticks in the TEST mode with the following readings on the display: LCD RAM IROUT IRAMP LIGHT GOOD! EMPTY! GOOD! GOOD! GOOD!
The little guy at the bottom is completed and taking the batteries out for 5 minutes does nothing. Hitting any key just sends the MX700 back through the TEST mode. Doing another download fixes it but this is not right and URC should fix it. 4. Another way to try to restore a frozen unit is to do a "Partial Download" after a taking out one battery until the display fades away.

I. Pricing:

1. The only places I recommend to order MXs from are (alphabetically): http://www.bluedo.com/bluedocgi/product.cgi?model=MX-700PKG and http://www.surfremotecontrol.com/Merchant2/merchant.mv?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=S RC&Product_Code=MX700&Category_Code=HTMCL

due to their superb support at the Remote Central web site. Both have shown flawless support to me personally. 2. The ~$400 street price of the MX700 is quite steep and if you dont need a 20-device unit and all the cool macros the ~$135 street MX500 is the remote industries best buy. Even if you need 2-devices two MX500s (one for audio and one for video) could handle ones needs quite respectively. That cost only $270. 3. If the 2-remote MX700 package sparks your interest and you only have 5 or 6 units and ~$135 to spend the dual remote system at http://www.bluedo.com/bluedocgi/product.cgi?model=MX-500PKG and shown below is a superb solution. I have it in my home office.
This package includes the award-winning MX-500 LCD Learning Remote Control and the URC7800 learning remote, which allow one to teach the MX500 discrete codes. It comes with a JP1 interface cable.
J. (MY) DEVICES: a. Philips Model 6000 DirecTV/TiVo:
1. The MX500 and MX700 are the best TiVo remote controls, bar none, due to principally the superior thumbpad. One can use it w/o a light turned on as the keys are easily found by feel. 2. Here are the page layouts: (TBD) PAGE 1 SOURC LIKE HATE TOEND INPUT PAGE 3 T/C SUGG SHOWC KEY 2 PIP PIPUP PIPDN SWAP SIZE TO- DO WISHL TIME SINFO REC-T PAGE 4 PAGE 2 SPM NTSHO CHAN TITLE NOW

PAGE 5

3. The switching of the PLAY and STOP keys from the MX500 is a problem for me as I am a heavy TiVo user. I think the basic layout and few more keys of the MX500 are somewhat better for my TiVo use although the cool below macros may offset it. They are: a. b. c. d. e. f. g. h. TO-DO WISHL TIME SPM NTSHO CHAN TITLE NOWPL = Macro: TiVo - 2 = Macro: TiVo - TBD = TiVo - 7 = TiVo - 1 = TBD = TiVo - 7 = TiVo - 4 = TiVo - TiVo

i. j. k. l. m.

T/C SUGG SHOWC SINFO REC-T
= TBD = TiVo - 8 = Macro: TiVo - 8 = TBD = TBD
3. I use the PREV CH for my much used TIVO key. 4. I have 2 of these that are his and hers. I had to teach the MX700 from her device in the MX500 due to the different, non-conflicting, remote control code.
b. SONY 9000ES A/V PREAMP:
1. The MX700's Audio file of Sony STR -DB1070 was a good start for me. It has many of the frequently used codes. 2. Here are the page layouts: (TBD) PAGE 1 PAGE 2

PAGE 3

PAGE 4
c. Pioneer DV-37 DVD player:
1. TBD 2. Here are the page layouts: (TBD) PAGE 1 PAGE 2

d. Toshiba 65H80 HDTV:

1. This device is not in their IR database but I used the one that was similar below and taught all other buttons that I wanted. 2. DANGER: The IR DATABASE code from the Toshiba TW65X71 that I used has the RESET switch on the first page and if pushed will reset your HDTV to its original defaults. If you have calibrated the HDTV with the Avia or Vide Essentials DVD youll have to redo it. This should be deleted from any URC HDTV or TV IR database file and let the user learn it if they want it. It definitely shouldnt be on Page 1. 3. Here are the page layouts: (TBD) PAGE 1 SOURC SBS ANT AUDIO INPUT PAGE 3 PIP PIPUP PIPDN SWAP SIZE PAGE 4 PAGE 2

e. Sony SACD CD-player:

1. This device is not in their IR database so one has to teach all of the buttons. 2. Here are the page layouts: (TBD) PAGE 1 PAGE 2
f. Pioneer 301-CD Player:

g. JVC 9800 S-VCR:

h. JVC-6700 S-VCR:

i. Sony R5 S-VCR:

j. 4DTV/HD200 HDTV, Big Dish, receiver:
k. DMT-1050 MPEG2 receiver:
l. GI Navajo 401 Big Dish receiver:

m. Akai CD burner:

n. X10:

o. 3-to-1 A/V switch:

p. Service Menu and Avia access on my HDTV for finetuning it:
q. Radio Shack Coax switcher:
r. Pioneer Minidisk Player:
s. Toshiba 3000 HDTV Set Top Box:
1. This device is not in their IR database so one has to reach all of the buttons. 2. Here are the page layouts: (TBD) PAGE 1 PAGE 2
3. I taught the MX700 the following from my One-For-All to get a SD and HD buttons "Action" EFC=054 "HD" EFC=154 "SD" EFC=021
t. Dish Network 6000 HDTV Set Top Box

u. Pioneer Laser Disk

1. This device is not in their IR database so one has to teach all of the buttons. 3. Here are the page layouts: (TBD) PAGE 1 PAGE 2