Technology: A universal remote for all

Owning home entertainment appliances looks like a must to every home. These appliances have additional devices such as remote controls, which help create convenience while operating. The remote control can also be referred to as a clicker or changer. It is used to issue commands from a distance to televisions or other consumer electronics such as stereo systems and DVD players. In this regard, each appliance has its own remote control or controller. However, the quest for innovation has always resulted in the most exciting new products, services and features in each of the modern appliances. Unlike exciting features in mobile phones, TVs, and many more, remote control makers also invented ‘a one for all’ remote control. It is also unknown as a master or universal remote control. This remote control can be programmed to operate various brands of one or more types of consumer electronics devices. The number usually ranges from four to ten kinds of device such as TV, Video CD players, Video Cassette recorders, and DVD players. Universal remote controls are either low-end that can only control a set number of devices determined by their manufacturer, or high-end universal remotes that allow the user to program in new control codes to the remote. They are sold with various electronic devices that include universal remote capabilities for other types of devices. This allows the remote to control other devices beyond the device it came with. For example, a VCR remote may be programmed to operate various brands of televisions. However, becoming compatible with the device requires entering digital codes from a list always provided at purchase. The details on the programming and operation are all provided in its manual. Most of these remotes communicate to their respective devices via infrared (IR) signals and a few via radio signals and are usually powered by small AAA or AA size batteries. All remote controls work at a short distance below 30 meters. To be able to have convenience of operating your home entertainment appliances, you only have to cough a minimum of Rwf10,000. Contact: eddiemukaaya@yahoo.com