RCA Releases new Universal Remote Control
Reprinted from a RCA press release:
Expanding a home theatre setup usually means adding more remote controls to the pile. To give consumers a handle on the situation, Thomson (Euronext Paris: 18453) (NYSE: TMS) is
introducing a new RCA eight-device universal learning remote control with a backlit LCD touch screen keypad that enables viewers to easily control their audio and video components with a single remote that combines the best elements of expensive touch-screen displays and traditional push-button controls.
The RCU900, RCA’s second touch-screen universal remote, features a slimmed down, compact design. The backlit, LCD touch-screen has 18 labeled key areas that can be customized to display frequently-used functions, such as turning on the DVD player, VCR recording or setting the sleep timer. Each component has its own control screen, which only displays the keys available for that device, making operation very simple.
Other timesaving features include the RCU900’s nine LCD programmable macro keys, which can be programmed to “learn” regularly used commands. The SmartMacro feature enables the user to program components with up to 20 sequential commands with one keypress. For example, a macro key can be programmed to tune the TV to channel three, change the satellite receiver to a specific channel, and turn the VCR on — ready to record.
“As consumers add more components to their home theatre systems, there is an increased demand for more advanced remotes that help users manage and control these components,” said David Geise, Vice President for Accessories and Components, Thomson. “Thomson is committed to provide innovative product solutions, and the RCU900 with its advanced features and user-friendly interface makes it an ideal choice for the serious home theatre enthusiast.”
Saving consumers the hassle of having to reprogram, the RCU900 quickly “learns” codes from an existing remote control unit by placing the existing remote at the base of the RCU900 so the original remote is in line with the RCU900 learning sensor, and then pressing the “setup” key. The RCU900 then receives the signal and “learns” its characteristics, so that it can reproduce the same signal and function when the learned key is pressed. The home theatre enthusiast gets “help” while going through the set-up
process, via the blinking LED indicator that notifies the user when learning is complete. The RCU900 has an extensive database of over 750 codes.
The RCA RCU900 controls up to eight devices — DVD, VCR, Satellite/Cable, CD and Audio equipment as well as two auxiliary devices. It also includes a “time out” function that conserves battery life, and a sleep timer.
Available now, suggested retail price of the RCU900 is $99.95.