MRF-350 Installation Manual
Optimizing Narrow Band Reception with the RFX-250 and MSC System Remotes

COMPLETE CONTROL

Universal Remote Control
MRF-350 Installation Manual 2006 Universal Remote Control, Inc.
The information in this manual is copyright protected. No part of this manual may be copied or reproduced in any form without prior written consent from Universal Remote Control, Inc. UNIVERSAL REMOTE CONTROL, INC. SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR OPERATIONAL,TECHNICAL OR EDITORIAL ERRORS/OMISSIONS MADE IN THIS MANUAL. The information in this manual may be subject to change without prior notice. Complete Control, Aurora, Genesis and Medius are registered trademarks of Universal Remote Control, Inc. All other brand or product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies or organizations.
500 Mamaroneck Avenue, Harrison, NY 10528 Phone: (914) 835-4484 Fax: (914) 835-4532

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction

Features and Benefits

Parts Guide
Optimizing Range and Reliability
Connecting IR and Setting Output Levels

Front Blaster Overload

Disabling the Front Blaster - Step by Step via PC
Controlling An Array of Identical Components or Zones
Identical Components/Zones - Step by Step via PC
Programming For Multiple Equipment Locations
Frequently Asked Questions

Warranty

Specifications

MRF-350 BASE STATION

The MRF-350 base station is an addressable base station like the MRF-300. RF Addressing gives you the ability to control as many as 90 identical components throughout a house. However, the MRF-350 is equipped with the Narrow Band RF reception, so is only compatible with MSC System remotes. NOTE: The RFX-250 is ONLY compatible with MSC System remotes: the current versions of the MX-3000, MX-950, MX-900 and the TX-1000 remote controls.The RFX-250 is NOT compatible with MX-3000 remote controls manufactured before April 1, 2005. You can identify the build date of an MX-3000 by looking at the serial number.The first 6 digits indicate the build date. If the serial number appears as 122905 014054, the first 6 digits indicate that the remote was built on December 29, 2005.
1. MSC System remote controls send radio waves in every direction, so your client enjoys No More Pointing operation!
2.The RFX-250 RF Sensor can be freely positioned out of way of the interference the A/V components create, connecting to the MRF-350 via a 10 cable (which can be extended). 3.The MRF-350s built-in Front Blaster sends commands to components in the same cabinet space as the MRF-350.
4. Self-adhesive Flashers affix to the Infrared sensors on the front panels of your clients components. The Flashers relay commands to components out of sight of the MRF-350s Front Blaster. The flashers plug in to the MRF-350s rear flasher line outputs via their 10 foot cables. Uniquely, the MRF-350 can also connect to rear panel IR Inputs via its adjustable IR Line Outputs. Page 1
Interference Rejection and Extended RF Range via RFX-250 The MRF-350 receives RF (radio frequency) signals via the RFX-250 RF Sensor. The RFX-250 displays RF interference via a bright red LED, which flickers when interference is present. Simply relocate the RFX-250 out of the interference. Expand Range by Adding RFX-250 RF Sensors in Remote Areas The MRF-350 can power up to three RFX-250 RF Sensors connected in parallel to the RF Input connector. Variable IR Output Matches Rear Panel IR Inputs The MRF-350 is equipped with adjustable IR line outputs, each output can be individually matched to rear panel IR inputs on any component that is designed to be operated by a standard IR repeater.The outputs utilize a 3.5mm jack. Up To Fifteen Equipment Locations With Identical Components Each MSC System remote is addressable. They can be programmed to specifically control components in a particular room by installing a base station at each location. In operation its simple: when you select a device located in the Den, the MX series remote only sends commands to the Den. When you select a device located in the Family Room, the MX-3000 only sends commands to it. A Single MRF-350 Can Control an Array of Identical Components or Identical Zones of a Multi Zone Preamp/Matrix Switcher Each MRF-350 has six addressable IR Line Outputs. For example, you can control up to six identical TVs with one MRF-350 or route volume commands for a specific zone to a particular zone IR input on a multi-zone preamp. If you have more than six identical components or zones, up to 15 additional MRF-350s can be installed to control them (thus allowing up to 90 identical components or zones in one house). IR Input for Keypads or IR Repeater Systems The MRF-350 rear panel IR input will relay IR Data from IR repeaters or MultiZone Keypads to all IR line outputs (does not support IR routing).The 5V, 100 milliamp output will directly power some brands and models of keypad directly.

The MRF-350 RF Base Station includes:
1 - RFX-250 RF Sensor with integrated antenna 1 - Mounting plate for RFX-- MRF-350 Base Station 1 - Mounting Plate for wall mounting the MRF-- Screws for wall mounting the two mounting plates 1 - 9V-300mA Power Supply 6 - Visible Flashers with 10 foot plug in cables. 6 - Extra self adhesive pads for Emitters 1 - 12 Connecting Cable 1 - Adjustment Tool (Screwdriver for RF ID and IR level adjustment) 2 - Depluggable screw connectors for RF connections when extending wires.

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1. Power on all AV components, lower all dimmers to 50% and power on anything that may create RF Interference (particularly devices with high speed microprocessors or hard drives). 2. Check that the address wheel on the bottom of the MRF-350 is set to ID#0 (the interference sniffing position).
Slide off the mounting plate to reveal the RF ID# rotary switch. Check that the arrow pointer in the center of the wheel is pointed to 0, the default interence sniffing position. If it is not, use a small flat blade screwdriver (included) to set the RF ID# to 0.
3. Connect the MRF-350 to its DC wall adapter and plug the wall adapter into a live AC outlet. Place the MRF-350 in a convenient central location in the equipment rack. Unlike an MRF-250, the MRF-350 can be placed next to components with hard drives or high speed microprocessors. There is no RF circuitry inside the MRF-350 itself. 4. Connect the RFX-250 to the MRF-350s RF INPUT. You can connect to either the screw connector or the jack as shown:
When connecting a single RFX-250 to the MRF-350 utilize the cable with 3.5 mm plugs on both ends. When you need a longer wire or are connecting up to three RFX-250s, use a cable with tinned ends. Cable can be extended as much as 200, then connected to the removable screw connector plugs. If you use CAT 5 connect four conductors to GND (one from each twisted pair) and connect the remaining conductors two at a time to 5V and DATA.

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5. Observe the RF LED of the RFX-250. Cup your hand over the RFX-250s RF LED. If it is glowing or flickering you must relocate the RFX-250 to a location where the LED doesnt flicker.
If no buttons are pressed on any remote control, no valid RF transmissions are being received.The flickering or glowing RF LED warns you that the RFX-250 is detecting RF interference generated or reflected near this location. MOVE the RFX-250 to a new location.
6. Observe the STATUS LED of the MRF-350. It is a little more sensitive than the RFX-250. If you see any flickering of this LED, move the RFX250 to a new location.
The flickering or glowing STATUS LED warns you that the RFX-250 is detecting RF interference generated or reflected near this location. MOVE the RFX-250 to a new location.

If your installation location simply doesnt offer you any choice and you are detecting interference everywhere you place the RFX-250 you have three last resort options: a. Remove the RFX-250s antenna. This will reduce the range enormously, but may still be enough for this client. b. Extend a wire to another room. Try this over the floor first, before attempting to conceal the wire. c. Admit defeat and install a pointing again IR repeater system.

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7. Once you have found a location that is absolutely clean with everything on, test to see if the range is adequate and that macro reliability is perfect. Start with the antenna angle set to 45 degrees and positioned so that the long side of the antenna is facing the customers favorite seating position. When testing, set both the remote and the MRF-350 to the same VALID RF ID#. Keep in mind that zero (0) is not a valid RF ID#. Watch the STATUS LED on MRF-350 - it should light every time you press a button on the remote. This will tell you that the signal was received and understood. You can ignore the RF LED on the RFX-250 (it only indicates that a signal was received, not that it was understood). 8. If the range is inadequate, you may extend wire to any area that is not giving good results and place an additional RFX-250 in that area. Up to three RFX-250s can be connected to one MRF-350.
9. Should you need more than six IR Outputs, connect as many as three different MRF-350s to one RFX-250 in a daisy chain using the supplied cable. To preserve addressibility, set each MRF-350 to a different RF ID number. Remember 0 (zero) is not a valid RF ID.

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1. Connect an IR emitter to each IR output and run the emitter wire to the front panel of each component. DO NOT STICK the emitter in place. ADJUST the level first. 2. Adjust each of the IR Output levels for best operation. If the component operates best at minimum level, but is still operating sluggishly or intermittently, move the emitter farther away from the components IR sensor.
NOTE: TiVo, Replay TV, Satellite Receivers and Cable Boxes are all extremely sensitive to IR overload or saturation. Put up the on screen guide and test the navigation arrows. Compare operation via RF to the original remote control. Operation should be identical. RF is not slower. If operation is inconsistent or sluggish, LOWER the IR line output. If you still have sluggish operation, check that the remote control is set to a particular LINE OUT, rather than ALL.When IR commands are sent to all the flashers in a cabinet, you can have difficulty adjusting the IR Output. Reprogram the remote control to send IR commands only via a specific (1-6) Line Output, then readjust the IR Line Output level.

Copper colored conductor is GROUND (Sleeve of the Plug). Silver colored conductor is IR DATA (Tip of the Plug).
When connecting to a components rear panel IR Input, cut the flasher off of the wire, strip the two conductors and connect to the rear panel IR Input.The MRF-350 is only compatible with standard IR Inputs, not proprietary control systems offered by some manufacturers.

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A few models of audio/video components can be OVERLOADED by the Front Blaster. If you are having intermittent or inconsistent results with a particular component, try repositioning the MRF-350 and facing the Front Blaster in a different direction. If this improves the situation but is impractical, it may be necessary to utilize the self-adhesive flashers only and follow the steps below to Disable the Front Blaster. This will limit the number of components your MRF-350 can control to six. If you have more than six components you can purchase an additional MRF-350.
Note: If you are programming a URC MX addressable remote control that sets up without a PC, refer to the owners manual to disable the Front Blaster. Open the PC software, then plug the MX PC programmable remote control into the PC. Open your saved configuration and follow these steps to turn off the front blaster: Step 1 - Open the RF Setup Window The RF Setup window opens after selecting RF Control from the Program Menu.
Step 2 - Setup the Receiver Extend the RF Setup window by clicking on the RECEIVERS button.
Step 3 - Turn off the Front Blaster Click on the cell in the IR LED OUTPUT/IR BLASTER column. A list box will appear. Select OFF from the list. Next, click on OK to apply your change. SAVE your changes using File|Save and DOWNLOAD to the remote control.

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There are several considerations to take into account when you are installing an MRF-350 to control an array of identical components: 1.The RF ID# cannot be set to Code 0, the universal setting.You must use one of the fifteen unique IR Routing addresses. 2. Each identical component must receive IR commands ONLY from a dedicated Flasher affixed to its front panel or a rear panel direct IR input. The SIGNAL of the remote should be set to RF ONLY for each identical component. IR can still be utilized for other devices in your system! 3. You must note the NUMBER of the Flasher Output you have utilized for EACH of the identical components. 4. When you use a wired connection to a components rear panel IR input, you must cut off the LED emitter, strip the two conductors, connect the silver conductor to the DATA input and the copper colored conductor to the GROUND connector of the components rear panel IR input. Then adjust the line output of the MRF-350 for the best performance if needed.

Step 1 - Create a Device for Each Component/Zone in the MX Editor Software. In this example, six identical TVs are utilized in a Media Room array.The programmer has created devices for all of the equipment in the cabinet on Main Page 1. On Main Page 2, he/she has created a device for each of the TVs. Step 2 - Program One Device With IR commands. Using either the IR Database or Learning, program one of the identical devices to operate one of TVs (leave the others powered off right now).Test all commands, correct if necessary, then click on SAVE from the FILE menu.

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Step 3 - Copy The Programmed Device In tree view, right click on the device you programmed. From the context menu that appears, select COPY.
Step 4 - Paste The Programmed Device In tree view, right click on the first device that is NOT PROGRAMMED. From the context menu that appears, select PASTE. Repeat this PASTE on all of the other identical device. Save your work. Step 5 - Open the RF Setup Window The RF Setup window opens after selecting RF Control from the Program Menu.
The RF Setup window is composed of a spread sheet of options for EACH of your devices. By looking at the Signal column, you can see that the factory default programming sets all of the devices to send both IR and RF commands. If you look at the column for Flashers, you can see that the default sends IR commands for all devices to ALL of the flashers. Both options must be changed for identical components. Additionally, if you are not using it, you may wish to disable the Front Blaster (see page 7 for directions).
Step 6 - Adjust the Signal For Each of the Identical Devices The RF Setup window enables you to adjust the Signal output for each device individually, by clicking on the intersection of a row and a column and then selecting RF from the three options shown in the pull down list box.

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Click on the cell for the first identical TV, by crossing the device row with the Signals column. TV1 Device Row

Signal Column

Select RF from the three options shown for EACH of the identical TVs.You may leave the other components of the system set to IR & RF. Step 7 - Adjust the Flashers For Each of the Identical Devices The RF Setup window enables you to adjust which Flashers output by the remote control for each device individually, by clicking on the intersection of a row and a column and then selecting 1-6 from the seven options shown in the pull down list box. Flasher Column Click on the cell for the first identical TV, by crossing the device row with the Flashers column. TV1 Device Row

Select the correct Flasher (refer to your connection notes) for EACH of the identical TVs.You may leave the other components of the system set to ALL. Step 8 - Apply, Save, Download and Test First click on the OK button of the RF Setup window. Next, Save your work. Finally, download to your remote. When you select TV1 with your remote, commands are only sent to it. Likewise for the rest of your identical TVs!

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You can operate up to 15 different equipment locations, each with an MRF350 assigned a unique Receiver ID#. You program each of your remotes to talk to the equipment locations you want by assigning each of your devices to a receiver. First, you must add and name your receivers for the locations they are placed in: Step 1 - Open the RF Setup Window in MX Editor The RF Setup window opens after selecting RF Control from the Program Menu. Step 2 - Reveal the Receiver settings Extend the RF Setup window by clicking on the Receivers button of the RF setup window. Step 3 - Add, Name and Assign Receiver ID# Using the controls at the bottom extended portion of the RF Control window, add new receivers and rename them for the equipment location.
Add new receivers by clicking on the Add button.
Delete receivers by selecting them first by clicking on their Name, then clicking the Delete button. Assign the correct Receiver ID# for each LOCATION by clicking on the desired CELL and selecting the ID# you want from the pull down list. Each LOCATION should have a unique ID#. It is ok to install multiple MRF-350s in one location. You may rename the Default receiver to something more descriptive by clicking on the Rename button.
Step 4 - Save and Download to your remote.

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Can I use flasher/emitters that I have already installed in the system to connect to the MRF-350?
Yes, the flashers are compatible if they use 3.5mm mono mini plugs with the same polarity (Tip is data, sleeve is ground).
Im getting inconsistent operation regardless of flasher level or position.
Some components are easily overloaded with IR from nearby flashers. Prevent IR from affecting the problem component from other flashers or the front panel blaster by setting the device to a specific IR Line Output instead of ALL, then adjust the Line Output.
I have a row of identical TVs. Ive correctly set the flasher outputs using the Editor software, yet when I send a command to one of them, the TV next to the selected TV also responds. How do I stop this?
First, check the RF ID#, if the RF ID# is set to 0, IR routing does NOT work.The RF ID# from 1-9 or A-F must be set on both the remote control and the bottom of the MRF-350, second, check that the flasher level is set to the minimum necessary, third, check that the emitter is facing the component, fourth, make sure the RFX-250 is correctly connected to the MRF-350 RF Inputs (Step 4, Page 3)

USA Limited Warranty Statement
UNIVERSAL REMOTE CONTROL, INC. warrants this product against defects in material or workmanship for a period of one (1) year and as set forth below. Universal Remote Control will, at its sole option, repair the product using new or comparable rebuilt parts, or exchange the product for a comparable new or rebuilt product. This warranty does apply to the following: Units purchased from unauthorized resellers. Units purchased second-hand (used). Units installed or deployed for rental or commercial use. Damage caused by misuse, neglect, or acts of nature. Products that have been modified or incorporated into other products. Products purchased more than 12 months ago.
Power Supply: 9V 300mA IR Flasher Line Outputs: 3.5mm Mono Mini Jack RF Frequency: 418MHz Size: 8 x 3.5 x 1.25

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Information To The User
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. This 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 does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one 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. Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer could void the user's authority to operate the equipment. Note : The manufacturer is not responsible for any Radio or TV interference caused by unauthorized modifications to this equipment. Such modifications could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

Warning

www.universalremote.com

MRF-260 Installation Manual
Optimizing Narrow Band Reception with Complete Control Remotes

COMPLETE CONTROL

Universal Remote Control
MRF-260 Installation Manual 2007 Universal Remote Control, Inc.
The information in this manual is copyright protected. No part of this manual may be copied or reproduced in any form without prior written consent from Universal Remote Control, Inc. UNIVERSAL REMOTE CONTROL, INC. SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR OPERATIONAL, TECHNICAL OR EDITORIAL ERRORS/OMISSIONS MADE IN THIS MANUAL. The Home Theater installation on the cover was designed and installed by Stone-Glidden of King of Prussia and Doylestown, PA. The information in this manual may be subject to change without prior notice. Complete Control is a registered trademark of Universal Remote Control, Inc. All other brand or product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies or organizations.
500 Mamaroneck Avenue, Harrison, NY 10528 Phone: (914) 835-4484 Fax: (914) 835-4532

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction Features and Benefits Parts Guide Installation Testing Front Blaster Overload Disabling the Front Blaster - Step by Step via PC Controlling Four Identical Components/Zones
Identical Components/Zones - Step by Step via PC 7 Programming For Multiple Equipment Locations USA Limited Warranty Statement Frequently Asked Questions Specifications 12 12

MRF-260 BASE STATION

Introduction
The MRF-260 base station is an addressable base station. RF Addressing gives you the ability to control as many as 60 identical components throughout a house. To enable better range and reliability the MRF-260 is equipped with the Narrow Band RF reception (like the MRF-350), so is only compatible with other Narrow Band remotes.
NOTE: The MRF-260 is ONLY compatible with Narrow Band remotes: the current versions of the MX-3000, MX-950, MX-900, TX-1000, MX-850, MX-650 and the MX-350 remote controls. The MRF-260 is compatible with all MX950s, MX-900s and TX-1000s, but is NOT compatible with MX-850, MX-650 or MX-350 remote controls manufactured before November 1, 2006 or an MX-3000 built before April, 2005. You can identify the build date of a remote control by looking at the serial number. The first 6 digits indicate the build date. If the serial number appears as 122905 014054, the first 6 digits indicate that the remote was built on December 29, 2005.
1. MX/TX remote controls send radio waves in every direction, so your client enjoys No More Pointing operation!
2. The MRF-260s integrated Narrow Band RF receiver receives commands from any Narrow Band remote control. 3. The MRF-260s built-in Front Blaster sends commands to components in the same cabinet space as the MRF-260.
4. Self-adhesive Flashers affix to the front panels of your clients components (over the built-in IR sensor). The Flashers relay commands to components out of sight of the MRF260s Front Blaster. The flashers plug in to the MRF-260s rear flasher line outputs via their 10 foot cables. Uniquely, the MRF-260 can also connect to rear panel IR Inputs via its two adjustable Outputs. Page 1

Features and Benefits

Interference Rejection and Extended Range via Narrow Band The MRF-260 receives RF (radio frequency) signals via its integrated RF receiver and antenna. The MRF-260 displays RF interference via a bright red Status LED, which flickers when interference is present if the ID is set to 0. Simply relocate the MRF-260 should interference occur. Two Fixed IR Outputs The MRF-260 is equipped with two fixed IR line outputs with standard 3.5 jacks for standard IR emitter/flashers. Two Variable IR Outputs Match Rear Panel IR Inputs The MRF-260 is equipped with two adjustable IR line outputs. Each output can be individually matched to rear panel IR inputs on any component that is designed to be operated by a standard IR repeater. The outputs utilize a 3.5mm jack and are compatible with standard IR emitter/flashers as well. Up To Fifteen Equipment Locations With Identical Components Each MX/TX remote is addressable. They can be programmed to specifically control components in a particular room by installing an MRF-260 base station at each location. In operation its simple: when you select a device located in the Den, the MX/TX remote only sends commands to the Den. When you select a device located in the Family Room, the MX/TX remote only sends commands to it. A Single MRF-260 Can Control an Array of Identical Components or Identical Zones of a Multi Zone Preamp/Matrix Switcher Each MRF-260 has four addressable IR Line Outputs. For example, you can control up to four identical TVs with one MRF-260 or route volume commands for a specific zone to a particular zone IR input on a multi-zone preamp. If you have more than four identical components or zones, up to 15 additional MRF-260s can be installed to control them (thus allowing up to 60 identical components or zones in one house).

Parts Guide

The MRF-260 RF Base Station includes:
1 - MRF-260 Base Station 1 - Mounting Plate for wall mounting the MRF-- Screws for wall mounting 1 - 9V-300mA Power Supply 4 - Visible Flashers with 10 foot plug in cables. 4 - Extra self adhesive pads for Emitters 12 - Labels for IR Line Outputs 1 - Screwdriver for Variable Outputs

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Installation
1. Unplug the MRF-260. Test all IR commands and macros line of sight. 2. Power on all AV components including the TV. Turn on all of the lights and lower all dimmers to 50%. Power on anything that may create RF Interference (particularly devices with high speed microprocessors or hard drives). 3. Check that the address wheel on the rear of the MRF-260 is set to ID#0 (the interference sniffing position).
Check that the arrow pointer in the center of the wheel is pointed to 0, the default interference sniffing position. If it is not, use a small flat blade screwdriver (included) to set the RF ID# to 0.
4. Connect the MRF-260 to its DC wall adapter and plug the wall adapter into a live AC outlet. Place the MRF-260 in a location at least 3 feet away from satellite receivers, cable boxes, HDTV tuners, DVRs, PCs or any other device with a high speed microprocessor (these generate broad band Radio Frequency Interference -RFI). Of course, you should keep in mind that the emitter cables are 10 long.
The green POWER LED indicates that the MRF-260 is powered on. The red STATUS LED flashes differently, based on the Address setting: IF SET TO ID#0 The Status LED flashes when it receives ANY RF signal, including RFI. This makes ID#0 ideal for sniffing out RFI. IF SET TO ANY OTHER ID# The Status LED flashes ONLY when it receives a correctly addressed RF command. Page 3
5. Observe the Status LED of the MRF-260. If it is glowing or flickering you must relocate the MRF-260 to a location where the LED doesnt flicker. If your installation location simply doesnt offer you any choice and you are detecting interference everywhere you place the MRF-260, you have two last resort options: a. Remove the MRF-260s antenna. This will reduce the range enormously, but may still be enough for this client. b. Admit defeat and install the two piece MRF-350 base station, which can have the RF Antenna module remotely located (even in another part of the house). 7. Once you have found a location that is absolutely free of RFI with everything on, test to see if the range is adequate and that macro reliability is perfect. Start with the antenna angle set to 45 degrees and positioned so that the long side of the antenna is fac45 ing the customers favorite seating position. When testing, set both the remote and the MRF-260 to the same valid RF ID#. Keep in mind that zero (0) is not a valid RF ID#. Watch the Status LED on MRF-260 - it should light every time you press a button on the remote. This confirms that the signal was received and understood perfectly. If you repeat any button press multiple times and the Status LED lights correctly every time, you have no interference and a very reliable installation. If some of the presses do not light the Status LED, you still have some RFI. Your best strategy is return to step 3 and try to find a better location for the MRF-260. 8. Now that the location is fixed, connect each of the emitters to the appropriate IR output and run the cable to the appropriate component. Do not attach the emitters to the front panel yet! Utilize the included preprinted labels to identify which emitter goes to which component. If youd like to make your own, the slots for the labels have been sized at 12mm to enable a Brother P-Touch 12mm label to fit perfectly. NOTE: TiVo, Replay TV, other DVRs, Satellite Receivers and Cable Boxes are all extremely sensitive to IR overload or saturation. For this reason, it is recommended that you always connect the IR flashers for these types of component to the Variable IR Outputs of the MRF-260.

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Testing
Test a few commands for each device before fixing the flasher in place on the front panel of a device. Since TiVo, Replay TV, Satellite Receivers and Cable Boxes are all extremely sensitive to IR overload or saturation, you should test them thoroughly. Put up the on screen guide and test the navigation arrows. Compare operation via RF to the original remote control. Operation should be identical. RF is not slower. If operation is inconsistent or sluggish, lower the IR line output and/or reposition the flasher. If you still have sluggish operation, check that the remote control is set to a particular LINE OUT, rather than ALL. When IR commands are sent to all the flashers in a cabinet, you can have difficulty adjusting the IR Output. Reprogram the remote control to send IR commands only via a specific (1-4) Line Output, then readjust the IR Line Output level. Note: Remember, the MRF-260 will NOT respond if you select IR line outputs 5 or 6. The MRF-260 has only four IR Line Outputs. 1. Connect an IR emitter to each IR output and run the emitter wire to the front panel of each component. DO NOT STICK the emitter in place. ADJUST the level first. 2. Adjust each of the IR Output levels for best operation. If the component operates best at minimum level, but is still operating sluggishly or intermittently, move the emitter farther away from the components IR sensor.

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Front Blaster Overload
A few models of audio/video components can be overloaded by the Front Blaster. If you are having intermittent or inconsistent results with a particular component, try repositioning the MRF-260 and facing the Front Blaster in a different direction. If this improves the situation but is impractical, it may be necessary to utilize the selfadhesive flashers only and follow the steps below to Disable the Front Blaster. This will limit the number of components your MRF260 can control to four. If you have more than four components you can purchase an additional MRF-260 or upgrade to an MRF350.
Disabling the Front Blaster - Step by Step via PC
Note: If you are programming a URC MX addressable remote control that sets up without a PC, refer to the owners manual to disable the Front Blaster. Open the PC software, then plug the MX PC programmable remote control into the PC. Open your saved configuration and follow these steps to turn off the front blaster: Step 1 - Open the RF Setup Window The RF Setup window opens after selecting RF Control or Settings from the Program Menu of most MX/TX editors or from the Main Menu of the ProWizard. Step 2 - Setup the Receiver Extend the RF Setup window by clicking on the RECEIVERS button. Step 3 - Turn off the Front Blaster Click on the cell in the IR LED OUTPUT/IR BLASTER column. A list box will appear. Select OFF from the list.

Next, click on Close to apply your change.

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Controlling Four Identical Components/Zones
There are several considerations to take into account when you are installing an MRF-260 to control an array of identical components: 1. The RF ID# cannot be set to Code 0, the universal setting. You must use one of the fifteen unique IR Routing addresses. 2. Each identical component must receive IR commands ONLY from a dedicated Flasher affixed to its front panel or a rear panel direct IR input. The SIGNAL of the remote should be set to RF ONLY for each identical component. IR can still be utilized for other devices in your system! 3. You must note the NUMBER of the Flasher Output you have utilized for EACH of the identical components.
Identical Components/Zones - Step by Step via PC
Step 1 - Create and Program a Device for Each Component/Zone Try to name each device with a descriptive title. At a minimum, label them TV1, TV2, TV3 and so on. Step 2 - Open the RF Setup Window The RF Setup window opens after selecting RF Control from the Program Menu or from the ProWizards Main Menu. The RF Setup window is composed of a spread sheet of options for EACH of your devices.

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By looking at the Signal column, you can see that the factory default programming sets all of the devices to send both IR and RF commands. If you look at the column for Flashers, you can see that the default sends IR commands for all devices to ALL of the flashers. Both options must be changed for identical components. Additionally, you must disable the Front Blaster (see page 6 for directions). Step 3 - Adjust the Signal For Each of the Identical Devices The RF Setup window enables you to adjust the Signal output for each device individually, by clicking on the intersection of a row and a column and then selecting RF from the three options shown in the pull down list box. Select RF from the three options shown for EACH of the identical TVs. You may leave the other components of the system set to IR & RF.
Step 4 - Adjust the Flashers For Each of the Identical Devices The RF Setup window enables you to adjust which Flashers output by the remote control for each device individually, by clicking on the intersection of a row and a column and then selecting 1-4 from the seven options shown in the pull down list box. Select the correct Flasher (refer to your connection notes) for EACH of the identical TVs. You may leave the other components of the system set to ALL. See figure on the next page.

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In the figure below, each device is set to a specific flasher.
Note: Remember, the MRF-260 will only respond to selections 1 through 4. Step 5 - Make sure that the ID# is set on both the remote and on the wheel of the MRF-260. Click on the Receivers button and set the RF address to one of the first 15 addresses (1-9 or A, B, C, D or E). The second set of addresses is only supported by MSC units.

Step 6 - Close the RF window and Download to the Remote.

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Programming For Multiple Equipment Locations
You can operate up to 15 different equipment locations, each with an MRF-260 assigned a unique Receiver ID#. You program each of your remotes to talk to the equipment locations you want by assigning each of your devices to a receiver. First, you must add and name your receivers for the locations they are placed in: Step 1 - Open the RF Setup Window The RF Setup window opens after selecting RF Control from the Program Menu or RF Settings from the Main Menu of ProWizard. Step 2 - Reveal the Receiver settings Extend the RF Setup window by clicking on the Receivers button of the RF setup window. Step 3 - Add, Name and Assign Receiver ID# Using the controls at the bottom extended portion of the RF Control window, add new receivers and rename them for the equipment location.
Add new receivers by clicking on the Add button. Delete receivers by selecting them first by clicking on their Name, then clicking the Delete button.
Assign the correct Receiver ID# for each LOCATION by clicking on the desired CELL and selecting the ID# you want from the pull down list. Each LOCATION should have a unique ID#. It is ok to install multiple MRF-260s in one location.
You may rename the Default receiver to something more descriptive by clicking on the Rename button.
Step 4 - Save and Download to your remote.

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USA Limited Warranty Statement
Your Universal Remote Control, when delivered to you in new condition, is warranted against defects in materials or workmanship as follows: UNIVERSAL REMOTE CONTROL, INC. warrants this product against defects in material or workmanship for a period of one (1) year and as set forth below. Universal Remote Control will, at its sole option, repair the product using new or comparable rebuilt parts, or exchange the product for a comparable new or rebuilt product. In the event of a defect, these are your exclusive remedies. This Limited Warranty covers only the hardware components packaged with the Product. It does not cover technical assistance for hardware or software usage and it does not cover any software products whether or not contained in the Product; any such software is provided "AS IS" unless expressly provided for in any enclosed software Limited Warranty. To obtain warranty service, you must deliver the product, freight prepaid, in its original packaging or packaging affording adequate protection to Universal Remote Control at the address provided in the Owner's Manual. It is your responsibility to backup any macro programming, artwork, software or other materials that may have been programmed into your unit. It is likely that such data, software, or other materials will be lost during service and Universal Remote Control will not be responsible for any such damage or loss. A dated purchase receipt, Bill of Sale, Installation Contract or other verifiable Proof of Purchase is required. For product support and other important information visit Universal Remote Control's website: http://www.UniversalRemoteControl.com or call the Universal Remote Control Customer Service Center (914) 835-4484. This Limited Warranty only covers product issues caused by defects in material or workmanship during ordinary consumer use. It does not cover product issues caused by any other reason, including but not limited to product issues due to commercial use, acts of God, third-party installation, misuse, limitations of technology, or modification of or to any part of the Universal Remote Control product. This Limited Warranty does not cover Universal Remote Control products sold as USED, AS IS, REFURBISHED, so-called "B STOCK" or consumables (such as batteries). This Limited Warranty is invalid if the factoryapplied serial number has been altered or removed from the product. This Limited Warranty is valid only in the United States of America. This Limited Warranty specifically excludes products sold by unauthorized resellers.

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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use flasher/emitters that I have already installed in the system to connect to the MRF-260?
Yes, the flashers are compatible if they use 3.5mm mono mini plugs with the same polarity (Tip is data, sleeve is ground).
Im getting inconsistent operation regardless of flasher level or position.
Some components are easily overloaded with IR from nearby flashers. Prevent IR from affecting the problem component from other flashers or the front panel blaster by setting the device to a specific IR Line Output instead of ALL, then adjust the Line Output.
I have a row of identical TVs. Ive correctly set the flasher outputs using the Editor software, yet when I send a command to one of them, the TV next to the selected TV also responds. How do I stop this?
First, check the RF ID#, if the RF ID# is set to 0, IR routing does not work. Second, set the RF ID# from 1-9 or A-F on both the remote control and the rear of the MRF-260. Third, check that the flasher level is set to the minimum necessary. Fourth, check that the emitter is facing the component.

Specifications

Power Supply: 9V 300mA IR Flasher Line Outputs: 3.5mm Mono Mini Jack RF Frequency: 418MHz

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Information To The User
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. This 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 does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one 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. Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer could void the user's authority to operate the equipment. Note : The manufacturer is not responsible for any Radio or TV interference caused by unauthorized modifications to this equipment. Such modifications could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

Warning

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