atomic hot***Radioshack touchscreen remote discontinued, price $29.95

[cbragwel]

I don't know if you've seen this, but you can lock the Volume controls on the remote to one source(such as TV), so that no matter what you have the remote on to control, the volume will always control the TV.

 

[lebowsky]

Got my 2107 last night afer work. I had verified that they had two but by the time I made it to Rat Shack there was only one left. It took the clerk forever to find it - it ended up being right behind the counter. I think one of those Rat B@st@rds was going to take one home for himself.

Anyway, I got the thing running all my devices (except my POS VCR - which I'm still working on) within 30 mins. The Code Search feature picked up my Motorola HDTV STB (issued by Comcast) on the 2nd try so I was very happy with that.

Also, as stated before, you can effectively channel surf in the dark with this remote without looking at the LCD. The channel up/down and volume up/down buttons are "hard" buttons on the bottom of the remote. There are also tactile buttons for mute, power, macro (3 of them) and something else that I can't think of at the moment - sleep maybe?

All in all I am very impressed with this unit. You can't beat it for the price.

 

[NarsDaD]

Bo, something like this: "Now You Can Find It!" Wireless RF Electronic Locater $49.95 (#SI667GRY)

Does anyone know if the 2116 has the codes for the 1st gen RCA DSS receivers( I dont have the remote), I cant remember the model# because I'm at work. My sony universal remote doesnt have it.
thanks for any info.

 

[bonk102]

ok, here goest nothing, just called, they said they had 1 left in stock, and they're holding it for me, wish me luck

 

[Mac]

Being the upgradaholic and gadget freak that I am, was able to locate a 15-2107. It is a pretty cool toy and definitely worth the $30. I played around with it last night and here are my initial impressions:

Pro's
- Fairly simple to operate and code
- Good selection of preset codes. Was surprised to find my old GE DVD player worked fine. Also, my 13 year old 31" Hitachi TV was better than I expected, though not perfect. This set has always presented a problem to universal remotes due to its features (dual tuners for true PIP, antenna and input switching, etc.). However, very surprised that my 11 year old Sony VCR was not included.
- The indigiglo display is mondo cool
- A real IR blaster - unbelievable range. Unquestionably, the best I have ever seen in a remote.

Con's
- Large awkward bulky shape. This ain't no dainty contoured remote. Definitely requires two hands to operate.
- The combination of some of the preassigned mode keys ("DVD/VCR") are stupid and cannot be changed.
- Uses four AAA batteries...these are a pain. Given the size of this beast, don't know why AA weren't used which I always have a spare supply.
- Only four mode keys are displayed at a time, meaning that you have to press a "Mode Shift" key for the other four to appear.
- I was able to completely lock this thing up when I first started playing with it. Cannot recall the sequence of keystrokes/events but had to remove the batteries from the remote to restore use. Hasn't happened again but so could have just been a fluke. Did not have anything programmed yet so do not know if it lost the settings.

I also had more time to work with the Sony RM-VL1000 which I referenced in a previous post.

Pro's
- Very powerful and flexible. Can program more macros, timers, and commands than I would ever need. The ability to key in unique text labels for the dot matrix display and then learn/assign specific commands is impressive. Between the preset codes and the ability to learn, I don't believe there are any meaningful limitations on what this remote can do. I am thinking it may actually allow the replacement of all the other remotes.
- Supports 12 devices
- Good selection of preset codes though does not seem to be as complete as the RS 15-2107. For example, the preset code for the Hitachi would do the basic volume and channel functions but not support any of the PIP, antenna or input select functions. However, I was able to key in labels and learn the commands.
- Very nice quality of build. Buttons have good tactile feel. Good balance.
- Very convenient if you use primarily Sony components (what would you expect) as most of the devices are preset to Sony codes.

Con's
- Moderately steep learning curve. Usual trade-off...with power/flexibility comes complexity. You don't want to lose the manual.
- The ergonomics are a mixed bag:
(1) It fits nicely in one hand and is well balanced for single hand operation. However, the component select key is at the top of the remote, meaning that if you want to change device modes, you must either use the other hand or shift the remote in your hand to access the key. The same complaint goes for the power key.
(2) The dot matrix display is rather dim and none of the hard keys light up.
(3) The selection keys on the upper right hand side were not well thought out and are not parallel with the corresponding label. This is really dumb.
(4) The entering of the customized labels is an arduous task that requires you to scroll through a long list of characters and symbols to assign each text character on the dot matrix display. Good news is you only have to do it once, but it is a nuisance.
(5) On the plus side, the remote is "intelligent " enough to default to the TV volume key when a video component (DVD, VCR, etc) is selected and likewise will default to the receiver volume key when an audio component (CD, tape,etc) is selected. Thus, saving you the effort of switching back to the receiver (or TV) to adjust volume when using one of the related components. This can be overridden if desired, too.

The net of this long winded post is that the RS 15-2107 is an excellent buy even with its warts. It may not have all the flexibility a power user would want require but what it does...it seems to do very well. And don't discount the "geek factor"...it is cool toy. I will probably use it in my family room which is a real hodge podge of gear.

I also stand by my recommendation of the Sony RM-VL1000 which can be found at Compgeeks, as well. It is definitely the more powerful of the two remotes but will require more time to learn and setup. The reward is that it should be able to truly replace several remotes. This will probably do duty in my bedroom which is almost completely Sony.

 

[Jstkiddn]

I admit the geek factor is quickly winning and I would love to have the touch screen remote *if* it will work my stuff. I don't have that many things...tv, vcr, digital cable box....but the one that is worrying me is the Panasonic home theater in a box (tuner, cd player, dvd player, receiver all in one). I ran across THIS link on RadioShack.com showing the codes for various devices. There is nothing listed for any "home theater in a box" units. Has anyone successfully used this remote for something like this? I did notice that the other remote that has been discussed here does have a drop down list for the home theater devices...but I want the cool indiglo. <G> Thanks in advance!

 

[RossMAN]

After I get my $5 off coupon today, I can begin playing with my new toy.

w00t!

If I don't wanna MacGuyver my own serial cable thingie, where can I buy one?

 

[BigSmooth]

Originally posted by: RossMAN
After I get my $5 off coupon today, I can begin playing with my new toy.

w00t!

If I don't wanna MacGuyver my own serial cable thingie, where can I buy one?

I know you can get them at Bluedo.com.

 

[RossMAN]

Yikes, wonder:

1) Why I need one, what exactly can I program using this?
2) Is it cheaper on eBay?
3) If I have zero soldering skills, how difficult is it to build on?

 

[RobK]

Ross- it's not too hard at all to build. A quick trip down to Fry's in Wilsonville should get you everything for $5 or less. You can also crimp the connectors instead of soldering.
-Rob

 

[smigs]

I have picked up one of these remotes also. The interface is very easy to build. Just beginner soldering skills are needed. All the instructions can be found on the JP1 Yahoo groups files page. I built mine this morning and it only took about an hour.

Good luck,
smigs

 

[lebowsky]

Originally posted by: Jstkiddn
I admit the geek factor is quickly winning and I would love to have the touch screen remote *if* it will work my stuff. I don't have that many things...tv, vcr, digital cable box....but the one that is worrying me is the Panasonic home theater in a box (tuner, cd player, dvd player, receiver all in one). I ran across THIS link on RadioShack.com showing the codes for various devices. There is nothing listed for any "home theater in a box" units. Has anyone successfully used this remote for something like this? I did notice that the other remote that has been discussed here does have a drop down list for the home theater devices...but I want the cool indiglo. <G> Thanks in advance!

You can always try the Code Search or Learn function to see if it can control this device. I successfully got mine to recognize a Moto HDTV STB that wasn't listed. Worse case - you take it back to Rat Shack and try a different model.

 

[Jstkiddn]

Originally posted by: lebowsky

Originally posted by: Jstkiddn
I admit the geek factor is quickly winning and I would love to have the touch screen remote *if* it will work my stuff. I don't have that many things...tv, vcr, digital cable box....but the one that is worrying me is the Panasonic home theater in a box (tuner, cd player, dvd player, receiver all in one). I ran across THIS link on RadioShack.com showing the codes for various devices. There is nothing listed for any "home theater in a box" units. Has anyone successfully used this remote for something like this? I did notice that the other remote that has been discussed here does have a drop down list for the home theater devices...but I want the cool indiglo. <G> Thanks in advance!

You can always try the Code Search or Learn function to see if it can control this device. I successfully got mine to recognize a Moto HDTV STB that wasn't listed. Worse case - you take it back to Rat Shack and try a different model.

Thanks for the reply. After calling around, the only 2107 left in town is a display model. Not too sure I want a display. There are five of them in the next town over, but it's about 45 miles one way. I may go Rossman's route and go with the 2116 (using the $5 coupon). My other half would probably gripe having to use touch screen anyway. But the other one looks so cool <G>. Ugh...decisions, decisions. Does anyone know if the 2116 has any macros? Even one would be great. As it is right now, I have to turn on three separate devices just to watch a tv show.

 

[NICKel]

For cheap arses like me and Rossman -- you can get the JP1 cable shipped for

20.00 here
18.00 this site also has some good assembly pics.

My friend bought one from Hovis and everything went ok....

 

[NICKel]

Does anyone know if the 2116 has any macros? Even one would be great. As it is right now, I have to turn on three separate devices just to watch a tv show.

I believe it said somewhere in the thread that it can support up to three macros?

Detailed JP1 cable assembly instructions here

 

[Ionizer]

Originally posted by: InverseOfNeo
Mine is not learning the signals from the remote for my direcTV reciever. Any ideas why?

At first i had a problem w/ learning remotes too, b/c the instructions, well they are "wrong"

DO THIS:

put them 2 inches a part facing each other (duh)

Once your in learning mode, PRESS THE BUTTON ON THE RADIOSHACK REMOTE that you WANT TO "LEARN" a code (don't hold it down)

Then, without delaying, hit the button on your original remote ONCE (don't hold it down).

The radioshack should say learning and then success..

the instructions tell you to hold down stuff and do it the otherway around, and that did nothing but cause me problems.

 

[Ionizer]

Originally posted by: RossMAN

Originally posted by: HarryK

Originally posted by: RossMAN
Otherwise I'm quite happy with the 14-2116 even though I haven't even opened the package yet.

LOL@RossMAN. A true deal-hound if I ever saw one

The 2116 is black and pretty long, I'm just glad that it has PUSH BUTTONS instead of touch screen.

Unless you always watch TV or listen to music in a well lit room sitting up, trying to use your remote has a PDA (tap tap tap) is not my idea of easy and convenience.

Firstly, the main buttons (power, channel, volume, etc) are actual physical buttons (and there's a few other physical ones u can map to whatever you want)
Secondly, the thing lights up indiglo blue if it detects the room is dark.

 

[RossMAN]

I'm still trying to figure out if I even need a JP1 cable?

What are some things you can program/do with it?

Give me some ideas and examples please, thanks!

 

[Ionizer]

Originally posted by: RossMAN
I'm still trying to figure out if I even need a JP1 cable?

What are some things you can program/do with it?

Give me some ideas and examples please, thanks!

I'm not quite sure why I would need one either. Other than maybe interfacing more easily with the remote, to initially set it up. What are people doing with this JP1 connector that is so "3433t"?

 

[RossMAN]

Ok well I'll have to look into the JP1 serial issue by browsing the Yahoo! groups.

 

[MonkeyWithAnUZI]

Originally posted by: Jstkiddn

Originally posted by: lebowsky

Originally posted by: Jstkiddn
I admit the geek factor is quickly winning and I would love to have the touch screen remote *if* it will work my stuff. I don't have that many things...tv, vcr, digital cable box....but the one that is worrying me is the Panasonic home theater in a box (tuner, cd player, dvd player, receiver all in one). I ran across THIS link on RadioShack.com showing the codes for various devices. There is nothing listed for any "home theater in a box" units. Has anyone successfully used this remote for something like this? I did notice that the other remote that has been discussed here does have a drop down list for the home theater devices...but I want the cool indiglo. <G> Thanks in advance!

You can always try the Code Search or Learn function to see if it can control this device. I successfully got mine to recognize a Moto HDTV STB that wasn't listed. Worse case - you take it back to Rat Shack and try a different model.

Thanks for the reply. After calling around, the only 2107 left in town is a display model. Not too sure I want a display. There are five of them in the next town over, but it's about 45 miles one way. I may go Rossman's route and go with the 2116 (using the $5 coupon). My other half would probably gripe having to use touch screen anyway. But the other one looks so cool <G>. Ugh...decisions, decisions. Does anyone know if the 2116 has any macros? Even one would be great. As it is right now, I have to turn on three separate devices just to watch a tv show.

I bought the display model (only one left), and the warranty was doubled (90->180days). For THAT, I'll live with a display. Just ask if they don't suggest.

Above all else, one thing I'll say about Radio Shack: I've RARELY returned anything. It works from the get-go, and either dies of old age or I sell it.

 

[edavid]

This is amusing:

RadioShack outlet item on eBay

 

[Ionizer]

Originally posted by: edavid
This is amusing:

RadioShack outlet item on eBay

Saw that, was going to put my extra 2 on ebay since no one from AT seems to want it.
Was only going to try to get $40 for it, but since that didn't have even one bid at $49.99, maybe I'll just return the extra 2 to the store, not worth the effort.

 

[RossMAN]

I don't think it's worth the effort to sell them on eBay, just return it for a full refund @ Radio Shack B&M.

 

[huesmann]

That eBay guy is a nudnik.