Learning Remote Control:
Technical Terms You Should Know
Backlight - The backlight is just that, a light built into the remote control that allows you to see the screen and buttons in the dark. You should not buy an aftermarket remote control without a backlight if you are serious about home theater.
Docking Station - The docking station doubles as a holding location and battery charger for the remote control. Using a docking station is often a necessity for learning remote controls since they consume a large amount of energy. By using a docking station, you can save a lot of money that would be used for purchasing new batteries.
IR - IR stands for "Infrared" and is the medium used most often in remote controls for sending signals to components. IR remote controls usually require a direct line-of-sight with the component to function properly.
Learning - Learning is the term used to describe the remote control's ability to incorporate the protocol of a new component into its programming. This is necessary when the protocol of a particular device is not already preprogrammed.
Macros - Macros are programs that are either preprogrammed into a remote control or you create on your own. They allow you to perform multiple step operations with the push of a button. For example, you may program a macro for "Watch DVD". When activated, the remote control will turn on the TV, DVD player, receiver and select the appropriate settings for each. Macros are not only a time saver, they help simplify the operation of more complicated home theater setups. When choosing your learning remote control, take note of the number of macros available for you to program.
Protocol - Protocol is the code used between a remote control and its corresponding home theater component. Many of these codes are programmed into universal and learning remote controls allowing them to become "universal". The learning remote control has the ability incorporate the protocols of new devices that were not already preprogrammed.
RF - RF stands for "Radio Frequency" and is another medium employed for transmitting signals to components. Unlike most IR signals, RF does not require a line-of-sight between the transmitter and receiver and has the ability to move through some objects. This gives the remote control greater mobility and is helpful when listening to music in different locations of you home.
Touchscreen - Touchscreens let you activate various functions from the buttons displayed on the screen. Many learning remote controls allow you to customize the location and design of these buttons as well as their functionality.