Universal Replacement Remotes

If you've got a replacement remote, or you're in the market for one, then you'll need to program it to work with all your devices. There's several different ways to do this, some of them are tedious, like entering in device codes, usually used on cheaper remotes. Some ways are easier like with a learning remote, or some even have an internet set up wizard, but that's on most of the higher end (and higher priced remotes).

Universal Remote Programming by Code
Entering in device codes, is fairly easy to do, it can just take a long time. You basically look at a book that comes with your remote, and find the brand of the device you want to control. There will be several codes (I've seen as many as a dozen, give or take) of 3 to 5 digits. Five digits seems to be standard for most newer devices. You usually push a key combination for the device you want to control, wait until you see an indicator blink and put in the code. You then push the off button on the remote and if the device turns off, then the code worked, if not you start the process over with the next code.

Universal Learning Remotes
If that doesn't sound like fun to you then you can get a learning remote. It basically "learns" the codes from your old remote as you point it at the new one and push the buttons. Unfortunately if your old remote is broken or missing, then you'll have to do it with the codes. There are also some situations where the pulses from the old remote will be too fast for the new remote to read, in that case, you guessed it, you'll have to use the codes. Still, if it makes the process marginally easier then it's worth it. The prices on the universal remotes, are a little more expensive than the non learning ones, but you can still find them for under $20 on sale.

Computer Programming a Replacement Remote
If you're willing to spend a little more money, you could buy one of the lower end Logitech Harmony remotes, the Harmony 300 starts around $30, if you're willing to look around online. It only controls 4 devices but it does have a very cool way to set up your remote - through your computer. You connect the remote to your computer via a USB cable, then connect to the Logitech website. There is a wizard that allows you to enter your devices and it will set the remote up for you via the USB cable. Consumers report that you may have to tweak a few things if you have a complicated set up and lots of devices (in which case a 4 device remote probably won't work for you). Still, it's easier than the tedious trial and error code punching.

Remotes to Consider

If you're looking for an easy option to program a new remote then you should consider one of the Logitech Harmony line of remotes. They come in price ranges to fit most budgets, and are some of the best rated remotes of their kind. If you're just looking for something simple, then consider a replacement remote control with a few less bells and whistles, if you look online you can still get a great deal on a powerful remote.

Julia Mashtrimi likes to write about all sorts of things from technology to life hacks. Like most people she's always looking for new technology to make her life easier and more productive.