(Part 3) Reddit mentions: The best av remote controls & accessories

Harmony Remote 650 or 700. They are identical, except the 700 is rechargeable (both use AA batteries, but the 700 has a built-in charger). The 700 has been discontinued but you can still find them pretty easily.

Harmony 650: http://www.amazon.com/Logitech-Harmony-650-Remote-Control/dp/B004OVECU0

Harmony 700: www.amazon.com/Logitech-915-000162-Rechargeable-Discontinued-Manufacturer/dp/B004OVECUA

I have one of each and have been really happy with them -- I'm using them with Roku 2XS, Roku 3, Samsung TV, LG soundbar, Sharp TV, a set-top digital antenna box, my XBOX360, bluray player, air conditioner, etc... it's all programmable via a webapp and highly customizeable as well.

The Harmony series operates a little different from "normal" universal remotes. Once you have your devices defined, you create "activities" that use them. Push the button for an activity and the remote figures out what settings need to be applied. IE "turn the TV on and to HDMI1, switch the soundbar to optical2,set the volume controls to soundbar, the menu & arrow buttons to ROKU, and dim the lights to 40%" -- it makes it REALLY easy to use.

I agree the "TV Now" apps have some problems across all devices. The "TV Now/Everywhere" apps are designed by their respective companies, not by Amazon, Roku, or the other device makers. ESPN looks great on the Vue App designed by Sony, but may not look great on the ESPN app designed by ESPN or contracted out for design by ESPN.

No one would expect me to defend Amazon's Fire TV box. For a year, I rallied against it, criticizing Fire TV a whole lot. But Amazon started to change things a few months ago. Amazon search (including its excellent voice search) now searches more apps, not just Amazon's catalog (still needs to offer Vudu and Fandango though -- Roku, by contrast, searches about 110 apps by last count, prolly more now).

Believe it or not, for the past 2 months I've used the Fire TV box as my main streamer now that it's much less buggy when it comes to Sony's PS Vue service. The Fire TV used to regularly have trouble with Vue, but the bugs are out.

Another great thing Amazon did was add a "Recently Used Apps" row to the interface, and a customizably sortable Apps screen like Roku and Apple TV have.

Another reason I use the Fire TV more than other devices is Alexa's excellent "Artificial Intelligence" and search integration while you're watching a movie or news show and want to know more, for example when a politician or actor was born, and other info about them. Just say "How old is Roger Stone?" Thankfully, he still has at least 2 or 3 more decades with us; he got involved in politics at an early age.

Alexa's implementation inside Fire TV is much better than Siri's inside the Apple TV 4. Alexa can do much more; knows much more. Just say "Wikipedia Rod Serling" (or shorter, just say "Wiki Rod Serling") and Alexa will display some biographical info on your TV about Serling. I use this feature and others often, including viewing on the TV what's on my shopping list.

Something that will greatly enhance your Fire TV watching experience is buying the Piggyback remote control attachment that attaches to your Fire TV's remote control and allows you to control your TV's volume, HDMI input, etc. I think the company that makes the Piggyback is called "Mission Cables." They're on Amazon.

I've tried both the Sideclick Remote control attachment and the Piggyback remote control attachement, and I like the Piggyback much more, and believe it or not the Piggyback is about half the price on Amazon, $16 compared to $30. However, if you need 8 buttons then choose the Sideclick, but the Piggyback's 5 buttons are plenty for me.

I've seen reviews of the Sideclick at several sites on the internet, but nowhere have I seen a review of the Piggyback. Makes me wonder if companies have to pay to get their products reviewed? I don't mean pay to get a good review; I mean pay just to have their product reviewed, whether it's a good review or bad review...but this is pure far-out speculation on my part. I could be very wrong. Maybe reviewers just aren't aware of the Piggyback.

The Piggyback for the Fire TV is wonderful. Here's a link to it on Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/Remote-VERSION-Control-directly-remote/dp/B01N32WC5H/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1493045607&sr=8-7&keywords=fire+tv+remote+control

You can also just search Amazon for "Fire TV remote control," but again both the Sideclick and Piggyback attach to your Fire TV's remote; they are not separate remotes -- instead they're incredibly convenient attachments to your remote. The Sideclick attaches to the side while the Piggyback cleverly attaches to the bottom, and feels more natural, and doesn't widen your Fire TV's remote.

Yeah, I doubt the Xbox One would have remote codes for changing channels on some random old VCR or even that one external tuner with a VGA connector. Realistically, your best chance for your specific situation may be a PC running Windows Media Center. I believe that the XB1 has the necessary remote codes built in to support WMC. You won't need a powerful PC. An old desktop or laptop with Vista or Windows 7 home premium would have WMC built in. (You can also add WMC to a Windows 8 PC, but it has to be running W8 Pro, and then WMC is a $10 additional upgrade.) The computer will either need an HDMI out or you'll need an adapter for VGA/DVI.

You'll need a tuner like this:

http://www.amazon.com/Diamond-TVW750USB-ATI-Theater-Tuner/dp/B002UOUQ08/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1409014269&sr=8-1&keywords=usb+tuner

And then you'll also need a WMC compatible remote sensor like this one (be careful, because you need a true WMC compatible sensor)

http://www.amazon.com/HP-Infrared-Receiver-Discontinued-Manufacturer/dp/B00KDNIRYA/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1409014954&sr=8-4&keywords=windows+media+center+ir+receiver

So if you can find a PC cheap enough, and don't mind doing a bit of cobbling together, you should be able to get it to work. Whether it's worth it or not is up to you. Sorry, I really don't see much of an alternative. Maybe an older Tivo with analog tuner(s) if XB1 supports it.

I've struggled with this for years and it's the primary reason I gave up on my PC connected to my living room tv. Now the PC is just my media server in a spare room streaming stuff to my roku's. When it was my primary go to, I LOVED the Logitech Dinovo Mini. At the time it was $150, but is quite a bit less on Amazon now. Still $70, but is really a decent buy. It is an all in one remote and mouse/keyboard. When you toggle the switch by the touch pad on the upper right of the device it changes between a D-Pad and a mouse touch pad. To me it was the best option at the time. There may be other devices that are better, but I really liked it, but no, Even on windows 8 and 10 with various streaming apps, you have to still use a mouse and keyboard. Mainly because the API's for services like netflix are not made public any more and at one point there was an XBMCFlicks plugin, but I don't believe it works any more.

Here is a link to the dinovo mini on amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Logitech-Mini-Controller-Revue-Google/dp/B0040QE97A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1449159122&sr=8-1&keywords=Logitech+dinovo+mini

there are two ways to do blu ray playback on pc as far as i know. the legit and straightforward one using a software like powerdvd (about 50$), or simply extract the actual video from the disc the same way pirates do (i don't think it's morally problematic if you're doing it to blu rays you bought yourself), but you'll see that there are tons of other free workarounds if you google "how to play blu ray on pc" . both power dvd and players that will work with extracted video files (mpc-hc, for example) will be able to do that DTS/Dolby to multichannel pcm.
as for remote, you'll simply need an IR receiver if you don't want to use the phone, and then program some [freeware software that works with IR receivers] (https://sourceforge.net/projects/winlirc/) to link the IR signals of the existing remote of your choice with specific actions in OS or particular programs.
so add another 70$ to my estimate above regarding the pc parts. so that's about 720$, but if you're willing to go second hand i'm pretty sure you can cut another 30% off that as well.

> In terms of using the regular TV remote are you saying to use the TV remote to turn on the TV and use volume and then separately use the Amazon remote to control Channel changing and content?

Yes, this is exactly how I do it. I suppose if you are really concerned about only using 1 remote you would have to look into something universal like the harmony you mentioned. Personally that is overkill just to eliminate 1 remote.

You can also look into getting a sideclick. I don't have one but they sound pretty cool.

> My mother has an apartment in my house with three TVs in the apartment I have a few of my own TVs and would like to use one playstationvue account for everybody. So in that case her three TVs will all display the same channels and she's one person watching it anyway and the rest of the streams the other four can be used for my house hold.

I'm still not 100% sure what you're asking here. Each TV will have its own FireTv so you can steam whatever you want on each of them independently.

I do not subscribe to playstation vue so I'm not positive about how many simultaneous steams you can have going (You are watching on 1 TV while your mother is on another). I did find this on their website that seems like you can have multiple going at the same time.

You can also use PlayStation™Vue Mobile on up to 3 iOS and Android devices, as well as PlayStation™Vue on Fire TV, Roku streaming devices, and Chromecast. Up to five total streams are supported at once!

A couple details:

Components:

I read QUITE a few reviews and this series was very highly rated at a reasonable price. Ended up getting many of them on refurb, open box, or otherwise for a great discount.

R/L Floor Speakers: Polk Audio TSi400

Center channel: Polk Audio CS20

R/L surround: Polk Audio TSi200

R/L rear in-ceiling: Polk Audio RC80i

Subwoofer: Polk Audio PSW505

Receiver: Harman Kardon AVR-3650

Projector: Optoma HD20

Screen: Elite Screens Sable, 100" CineWhite

Blu-Ray player: Pansonic DMP-BDT220

Remote: Logitech Harmony One RF (no line of sight needed)

Total of all electronic components with wiring and such came to around $5,000.

All lumber used for coffers is 1x finger jointed poplar. Used 1x8 ripped to dimension for verticals, 1x10 for horizontals. Sizes were dimensioned based upon the depth of the gimbal lights above the columns and the width of the column capitals.

Base and casement trim is also FJP, crown molding was MDF due to the major cost difference. Doors are Western solid cores, knobs by Emtek.

All speaker wires are 12 gauge UL rated for in-wall usage. All other cables and connectors are from Monoprice as well.

110v wiring is all 12/2 with 15A receptacles.

Gimbal lights from Lowes, wall sconces are Minka Lavery.

Total for all building materials came to around $2,000 (much of it in the coffered ceiling materials).

The project took around 2 months to complete from start to finish, of working on it after work each day. I'd estimate that there was about 100 hours in the ceiling construction, a great deal of that in paint work.

The columns/trim/doors/coffers are all done in a BM satin, which is the lightest shade of brown. The walls are of the same swatch, only one color darker, and in flat (to prevent light reflection from the bright projector). The ceiling is one color darker on the same swatch, also in flat. The vertical insides of the coffers behind the crown was also painted with the ceiling color to make the crown stand out more. The dark colors were all chosen to minimize any reflection from the screen.

Now that the room has a closet and an egress window, it can technically be counted as a 4th bedroom in my house when it comes time to sell.

Awesome, fun project. For anyone looking for an out-of-the-box solution, I've used this with great success in the past.

Edit: amazon link

USB Receiver instead of IR - Huh? That remote has a USB reciever that uses 'rf' radio waves, not IR.
As opposed to this cheap remote (i own 3 of these) uses a usb IR receiver

https://www.amazon.com/HDE-Wireless-Multimedia-Raspberry-OPENELEC/dp/B008BW5A6S

Its cheap, it works ok, its ugly, its not rechargeable, but it works. :) it also uses IR so its range stinks. Which is what i think said you DONT want.

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I have been upgrading my KODI boxs to better remotes like this one. (i dont have this exact one)

https://www.amazon.com/DroidBOX-VIP-Plus-Wireless-Raspberry/dp/B01CYMFD3A/

The keyboard comes in very handy, it has mouse function if you need it, but its motion based, not a touchpad. A BIG bonus in the new type remotes is most are rechargeable. and for $13 its cheap.

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The OSMC remote you showed, sells for $30 on amazon, which explains why i do not own one yet. :)

This one looks like it, is much cheaper, but is not rechargeable, so i would not try it. Also it has one review. But its only $13.99 with $129.19 for 'expert setup' https://www.amazon.com/Retome-Control-Wireless-Universal-Android/dp/B01JIRZSRU


This one has better reviews, and is a bit cheaper.. Looks almost identical to me.

https://www.amazon.com/Andoer-Wireless-Controller-TV-Dongle-Projector/dp/B015SO37SY/


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Then there are the 'gamepad looking' remotes with keyboards and touch pad. The wife hates those, and they confuse most people that come over to the house. So i have not listed them.

Or you could find a firetv remote and try it out. I have a few dead firetvs and have used their remotes via bluetooth with several kodi machines.

Well Good Luck.

Wife and I got used to the remote in like a day . I don’t get the constant whining about it . Could it be better-sure but it’s not that bad . I got a rubber case from amazon for cheap and it never slips out of my hand and it is not hard to tell which side is up .

Apple TV is great so I definitely recommend it

For a quick solution I would check the CEC setting on the TV and make sure the HDMI is in a CEC capable slot.

But long term I would look into purchasing a Harmony Remote. I love my 650 and picked it up for $40 on black friday. It retails for $80 and is currently $71 on Amazon

I highly recommend a case like this one--it nearly eliminates the accidental swiping and it makes the remote much easier to hold. The magnets are a huge bonus, especially for our kitchen atv.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01B5RF470

I dunno.

There's several screens out there with HDBase-T already, and it's more and more becoming a feature on "business" panels, since it makes deployment of digital signage worlds easier.

If that trend continues it'll probably make its way into "pro-sumer" and consumer goods simply as a matter of scale-of-production. Just as now we're starting to see 10Gb NICs aimed at the more tech-savy home market with ASUS' new $100 card.

Either way, for me it was an easy decision. Even for now using $100ish baluns I'm happy with what I've got. =)

Not sure what kind of things you design or whether you could work with a product designer, but there are ways to design everyday household items that make them easier for dementia patients to use. Here's an example of a simplified TV remote. One item my husband loved was his dementia clock since he was always losing track of what day or even what year it was. Maybe you could design some computer games that could keep a dementia patient entertained without being frustrating or demeaning (like without cartoon-ish graphics).

My harmony was expensive, but it's not large and it's very intuitive.

If you're patient the hub with the old style remote does go on sale occasionally for $70.

We bought one of the these for our non voice remote in the bedroom: https://www.amazon.com/Remote-Stick-Control-directly-remote/dp/B01BLZ8BA8

That works great and was much cheaper than the harmony.

This is the best I've found although, it is not working correctly with the new Hulu app. Hopefully, this will be fixed soon.

Voice Remote Control,Smart TV Remote 2.4G Remote Control for Smart TV/Android TV Box/Projector/PC/HTPC/IPTV and Media Player https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NNWRG3B/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_umQBDbABD744T

P.S. How is Roku a closed system? Any provider can create a channel for Roku.

Good solutions:

1. Download the Xbox SmartGlass app on your smartphone and use the keyboard on there.
   
   
2. Buy an off-brand chatpad as a temporary solution until Microsoft makes an official one.
   
   
3. Buy one of these great mini wireless rechargeable keyboards: Candy Bar style & Controller Style

I know what you mean. I've had my 4th gen for a few months now, and it does take some time to get used to it.

This silicon cover is helpful. It feels better in the hand, won't slip, protects it remote when it falls, and keeps you from picking it up the wrong way.

As for navigation, it takes a little muscle memory. Also remember you can tap the edges to move one selection at a time. I actually use Siri a lot, too.

It does get better. I've come to like the new remote a lot better than the old one.

A good cheaper option is the Harmony 650.

Ive had 2 myself (dropped one and it broke) and I also bought one for my parents, and for my sister-in-law.

The screen on it is great, without being full touch or anything (I want physical buttons on my tv remote).

Good option if you want cheaper but still harmony 👍

I would recommend you buy these to control your hue bulbs from the wall!!

http://www.lutron.com/en-US/Products/Pages/Components/ConnectedBulbRemoteControl/Overview.aspx

I have these controlling my hue bulbs and lutron switches controlling my other dumb bulbs; I love how they have the same design language.

http://www.lutron.com/en-US/Products/Pages/Components/PicoWirelessController/Overview.aspx

https://www.amazon.com/Lutron-PICO-WBX-ADAPT-Pico-Wallplate-Bracket/dp/B00JZRAFEA


I'm seriously in love with the setup; the remote's battery is supposed to last 5 years. I just put the bracket over top of where the switch box used to be.


Here's a video on how to pair the luton remote with hue bulb(s). Really simple actually once you do it once or twice.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bpeq31kWqyU&feature=youtu.be


If you're thinking of getting some Sonos equipment. I have some of these too:

https://www.amazon.com/Lutron-PJ2-3BRL-GWH-A02-Control-Endorsed-Integration/dp/B01LC7O9MY

I got this remote cover. It's great. Protects from drops, feels a little better in your hand and you never hold it the wrong way.

i got a couple of these and really like them. They feel really nice in your hand too.

http://www.amazon.com/Non-Slip-Grip-Ergonomic-Dustproof-Silicone-control/dp/B018JXPI4M

> Nah, I have split system 220V. I need to research more.

A few ideas

• temp sensor, if room is normally hot but gets cool AC must be on
  
  
• tilt sensor, I wonder if you could put a tilt sensor on the louver of the split system. Not sure if they are strong enough to push the weight of the sensors. They are made for garage door.
  
  
• door strip sensors, they are ultra thin and could work. Again on the louvers so you can tell if they are Open and running or closed and not running https://www.thesmartesthouse.com/collections/door-window-sensors/products/sensative-z-wave-plus-strips-invisible-door-window-sensor
  
  EDIT: I forgot to mention then you can use a ZXT-120 to control the split system. I use them on my Mitsubishi split and they work fine. I have 6 of them. https://www.amazon.com/Remotec-Z-Wave-ZXT-120-Extender-Conditioners/dp/B00Q6SXTPS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1501630141&sr=8-1&keywords=zxt-120

Check this one out. Good price and good functionality. Works better than the Shield remote. Only issue is that it’s usb,

Voice Remote Control,Smart TV... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NNWRG3B?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Yeah, I love it! I set the "weight" in the software to Max so I have a lot of control and speed with my movements. I pair it with this case so I don't have to worry about the fragility.

Having all the dedicated buttons, touchpad, premium feel, Siri and amazing battery life make this the best remote I've had!

For my NVIDIA Shield, the OG remote (even though it's rechargeable) dies too quickly, and it's very limited. The cool feature is the headphone jack. I've also heard that the new revision isn't rechargeable, but still.

The apps by "Track my fitness" use the remote to count reps. You can put it in a armband or use the elago R1 Intelli Case because I was scared it would fly out of my hand or the glass would break. Also beats sports is a nice little workout.

The 7 minute workouts aren't that bad, if you want to pay a subscription there are a few.

This is a nice place to start for workout and other categories.
appadvice

Yes return it and get this non bluetooth version. plug the Usb receiver into that android box (it has usb i hope) and you are good to go. I bought that one and it didn't work out either, until I got the RF one. Works great now, on a fire tv.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KF9LHUI/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

try /r/helpmefind or /r/doesthisexist but to answer your question, maybe something like this that has 5 fav buttons:
https://www.alzstore.com/tv-remote-for-seniors-p/0036.htm
or this (which says you can set up favourites)
https://www.amazon.com/Flipper-Button-Universal-Remote-Control/dp/B002GR1YZ0

I agree. The remote on the top of my coffee table in the pic is a Harmony One. The thing is amazing.

I should probably put the others in a drawer somewhere though.

If you want any smart home light control, get into the Lutron Caseta ecosystem. I find that they work great for lights (also work with Harmony.)

​

Once you have the bridge, get these: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LC7O9MY/

Better yet, search for G20 remote. I love mine.
Voice Remote Control,Smart TV Remote 2.4G Remote Control Replacement with IR Learning for Android TV Box PC HTPC IPTV and Media Player https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NNWRG3B/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_Rbf2CbRR9TS1N

It might be worth looking for a case with at least one more external 5.25" or 3.5" slot for one of these: Antec Multimedia Station. They are infrared receivers (more expensive models available) that can power your machine on and off and reportedly work with most programmable universal remotes.

I suppose if you're happy with just one of those RF multimedia keyboards you'll do fine but tying your system in with your other devices via universal remote is just classy if I must say so myself :P

I love it because I put a soft case on it which makes it easier to grip and with the lanyard I instantly know which end is up.

Any help pricing the hardware/items below is greatly appreciated:

------
ITX Build
----
^(feel ^free ^to ^give ^prices ^for ^individual ^parts ^and/or ^the ^entire ^build)

• CPU : Intel G3258
  
• CPU Cooler : Noctua NH-L9i
  
• Motherboard : MSI H81I
  
• Case : SilverStone Milo ML07
  
• HDD : Seagate 1.5TB (7200RPM)
  
• ODD : Slim DVD drive (R/RW) from laptop
  
• PSU : SilverStone ST45SF 450W SFX
  
• RAM : 4GB Crucial Ballistix Sport (1600 — 9-9-9-24)
  
  ---
  Misc. Items
  ---
  
• Lenovo Wireless Touchpad - (additional info here)
  
• WASD CODE mech. keyboard 104key (MX Clears). Used 2 times
  
• Leopold MX PBT Keycaps (124 keys total)
  
• Silenx IXTREMA Pro Series 80mm (BNIB)
  
• Logitech Mini Controller (GoogleTV/Revue remote) - (additional info here)
  
• HP Windows Media Center remote - (type #2 shown here)
  
• Xbox 360 Pro series (white one)
  
• Xbox 360 Elite series (black one)
  
• Bose SoundLink bluetooth speaker - (additional info here)
  
  ----
  
  Thanks in advance!
  
  

In my room I have this setup; my PC is connected to an A/V Receiver that goes to TV out, a usb infrared mce sensor (not this one), a logitech harmony 650 universal remote and a kit of philliphs hue lights for software I use eventghost and ScreenBloom to give a touch of ambiance to the room, with all things set up I just press one button on the harmony remote and it turns on the A/V receiver, tv, run the ScreenBloom app to fade the lights and opens steam in big picture, I also have some shortcuts for the SC Chord button to control the lights while gaming.

although I don't know if it would work if you stream your PC to TV with Steamlink or the like, since my setup is for a PC that is directly attached to and in proximity of your TV.

It can be fussy about the HDMI cable causing blank outs, laggy remote, etc. I skipped the drama and got the Belkin 48Gbps cable that is made for it.

The new Spectrum app will blink annoyingly when using the guide if you have Content Matching turned on in the settings (it's off by default).

Two good racing games were broken with the 12.1 update and won't be fixed. Riptide GP2 and AG Drive. Riptide has a sequel that still works fine.

The remote takes some getting used to. After a few weeks I find it's really well done. Light taps can navigate and the voice search and Siri work well. I bought this remote case for mine that makes it easier to know which end is up and adds some grip. Here's another if you prefer smooth.

I just got this a few weeks ago and it works great.

Voice Remote Control,Android TV Remote 2.4G Wireless Air Mouse with IR Learning Air Remote Mouse for PC HTPC IPTV Android Smart TV Box Media Player https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NNWRG3B/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_DuGTCbJ9JXVF5

I got a gummy case on mine, but it wasn’t protection I was looking for. The case really helps the usability of the remote. You can pick it up blindly without accidentally using the touchpad, it’s easier to hold with a little more grip and weight, and it’s no longer symmetrical so I easily know by feel which end is witch. I highly recommend.

https://www.amazon.com/elago-Intelli-Technology-Absorption-Included/dp/B01B5RF470

I use the PDP Media Remote and set it up to control the stereo and cable box that are attached to the xboxone. Just had to connect the 1/8 port on the back to a IR blaster (this is not the exact one I use but similar) inside the closet where the equipment is. Works great for xbox control, one guide, changing channels, and volume.

I bought one of these and love it. Well, I bought it back when it was called the "DiNovo Mini"

Flirc, and your own remote is a great option. Also this HP MCE remote and USB IR adapter works well. http://www.amazon.com/HP-Infrared-Receiver-Discontinued-Manufacturer/dp/B00KDNIRYA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1458849186&sr=8-1&keywords=hp+mce+remote

Three hardware solutions that I know of:

1. Flic smart button.
   
   (This links to your smartphone via BTLE.)
   
   More info [here.] (http://flic.io)
   
   
2. Satechi Bluetooth Button Series (Media Button.)
   
   (This also links to your smartphone via BTLE.)
   
   More info [here.] (http://www.satechi.net/index.php/satechi-bluetooth-button-series-media-button)
   
   
3. Lutron Pico Remote Control for Audio (requires Caseta Smart Bridge, which I already had installed, for my Lutron "smart" light switches.) More info here.
   

You may be interested in this:

TV Remote Add-on for Fire TV Stick Remote (Control your TV directly from your Fire TV remote) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01BLZ8BA8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_M3nrxb2H6E047

Not great but works well. Remote actually feels a little more comfortable. I tend to cover up the ir emitter with my index finger.

Thanks guy. So I buy an IR blaster, like one of these? https://www.amazon.com/MAXZONE-Infrared-Extension-Transmitter-Compatible/dp/B06XV9V4RM/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=xbox+one+ir+blaster&qid=1562180021&s=gateway&sr=8-2

​

https://www.amazon.com/Xbox-Extender-Blaster-Cable-Head-WeaKnees/dp/B01J4JV434/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=xbox+one+ir+blaster&qid=1562180029&s=gateway&sr=8-5

​

And this will plug into the xbox itself? Sorry, just totally unfamiliar with how these sensors work with the xbox.

Yeah the Satechi bluetooth remote doesn't have up/down/left/right, it has play/ff/rew/vol+/vol-, which I thought I could probably remap with Keymap but it doesn't work, some of the keypresses never get to Kodi because the Kindle grabs them. On Linux clients I can change that, but I haven't found a way on Kindle.

The touchscreen interface is really finicky. Often times it will not respond to touch, or the control will acknowledge but no action will occur, or it will choose the wrong option. It's usable, but sometimes frustrating. Using a four-way control is much more reliable, for example, using Yatse on the phone, but I'd like a little remote just dedicated to the purpose.

Like the Andoer FM4 Magic; I have one of those that I use on a Linux client, and it does the job quite well but it isn't Bluetooth, it requires a USB dongle so it doesn't suit the tablet very well.

get a harmony remote and enjoy

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0038OMEQI

I just bought this and installed it today and it works perfectly over Cat5e. Its replacing a cheap monoprice one that used 2x cables and failed after 4yrs.

This is the cheapest HDBaseT unit that I could find, is only powered at one end (user's choice) and has bidirectional IR hardware included. I'm very happy with it.

The word you're looking for is "balun". While you can find 4K capable baluns, to the best of my knowledge none of them are passive.

Example of a balun that's exactly what you're asking for, except not passive: https://smile.amazon.com/SDS-Extender-HDBaseT-Supports-Bi-directional/dp/B0107W8UP2/

Knowing the word "balun" will get you much better search results than just putting in the cable specs (this is a search I've been down before).

What you might consider is a PoE (Power over Ethernet) balun kit. This one is pricey... but it supports 4K, and you only have to plug one side of it in (either the transmitter or the receiver) to power, and it'll power the other device over the same cat6 cable that the video signal is transmitted over. So you only need to run the single cable, and whichever end has trouble supplying power won't need it. https://smile.amazon.com/AV-Access-Extender-Uncompressed-Supports/dp/B01GYL54JK/

The remote is garbage. This $9 accessory makes it better. Adds grip, improves ergonomics and provides protection.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01B5RF470/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I didnt like the form factor either for the same reasons but its easily fixed.
Buy a remote case like this
https://www.amazon.com/Generation-Akwox-Silicone-Controller-Lanyard/dp/B01EN4LB9W/ref=sr_1_3

And then get one of those puffy childrens stickers. They sell them in small sheets. Then glue a star or a penguin or whatever on one end of the remote case so you can easily feel under your thumb if you've got the wrong end.

https://www.amazon.com/Different-MCY-Toddlers-Stickers-Children/dp/B06XJ7RCKP/ref=sr_1_3

It's far more than audio-only - it also carries power and can send/receive data. Examples of what 3.5mm jacks can be used for:

• Reading credit cards
  
  
• Charging and sending data to/from MP3 players
  
  
• Transmitting IR signals
  
  
• Sending CV/gate signals
  
  
• Plugging in computer keyboards
  
  
• Sending shutter release signals to cameras from a distance
  
  
• Powering video game consoles
  
  And surely tons of other things.

I actually really love this thing compared to the Steam controller for typing and general HTPC KBM duties.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00Q6SXTPS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_WhbECbGE7DANY

Check out this guy. I use 8 of them in my barndominium to control the head units of my mini-split system in each room. Works great. Takes a little time to figure out how to program them for your specific units but once it's up and running, everything works well.

I've got a similar one to this.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01EN4LB9W/

Actually mine looks like a slightly less expensive knock-off of yours. Either way, it works a treat. Got 3 Apple TVs (two at the house, one at the office), and all 3 remotes are in one of these cases.

This is the remote cover I bought. It makes the remote easier to hold and I can also tell if I'm holding the remote backwards. Some people think it interferes with the touchpad, but I don't have an issue with it. Maybe there is an app that people use the very edge of the remote track pad. I remember reading earlier about an app that scrolls faster at the edges if I recall correctly. Either way I like it. I don't use the lanyard.

https://www.amazon.com/Remote-Generation-Silicone-Controller-Lanyard/dp/B01EN4LB9W/ref=lp_14848364011_1_1?srs=14848364011&ie=UTF8&qid=1519798333&sr=8-1

One of these palm sized keyboard/mice combos would be a great solution.

I love my harmony one. https://www.amazon.com/Logitech-Advanced-Universal-Discontinued-Manufacturer/dp/B005FO43OU It is a pain to keep in sync but 99% of the stuff I do it's great. I have had to tweak everything, but I have already had one battery swell up, managed to disassemble enough to get the battery out, replaced battery. Wife got me a brand new one about two months ago since the old one was getting really beat up and dirty. Since I replaced the PS3 with a UHD player I now have one remote for everything.

How to Replace a Broken or Lost Remote Control - Lifewire

Logitech:

Logitech Harmony Companion $75. Refurbished $50.

Logitech Harmony 700 $75.

Logitech Harmony 665 $50.

Replacements:

Remotes.com

OneForAll

ReplacementRemotes.com

Sounds interesting. I was also able to find this: https://www.amazon.com/Inteset-External-Infrared-Center-Receiver/dp/B00J5NRWFO which multiple people in the comments say works the EventGhost MCE Remote Plugin.

The other thing to remember is that by default Kodi disallows control from other programs on the local machine or over the network so you will have to allow external program control if you haven't already.

This is maybe one situation where the zero might be a good fit. If you have TV or monitor with an HDMI input all you need is a zero, power supply, and a USB remote control like this one. If your TV has pip feature you can display the count in a small pip box. You'll also need an otg and HDMI cable but that should be it. A bit of scripting or programming and you are set.

Amazon link for those who want it:

www.amazon.com/dp/B018JXPI4M

Not sure if it's the exact same thing, but it sure looks close.

Seems like they aren't getting produced anymore. Only found a used one on amazon. http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B001B8ZS02?pc_redir=1413691363&robot_redir=1

At least /u/colonel_cage wrote that the Veris receiver can power up and down the computer. Haven't found real alternatives that you can put in a bay.

Yup. Mine fell from a height of ~22" onto a tile floor. Crack!

The good news is, it's covered under AppleCare. Just take it into any Apple Store along with your device's serial number. Don't have AppleCare on your Apple TV? I didn't, 'cuz it just sits there on the shelf, right? How's it gonna get broke? Ha.

Anyway, turns out you can add an AppleCare plan at any point while your device is still under the original 12-month warranty. And they don't have to know the exact details of when your remote broke (wink, wink).

Just make sure to use protection on the replacement.

UPDATE: See my comment below for the real story.

$100? Most defintley.

$200? Never.

$160? (found the One slightly cheaper) Maybe, if you're willing to spend $160 on a remote (I wouldn't)


There is a few cheaper Logitech Harmony remotes you can get, like This one ($50) or this one ($92)

Not sure what differs between those and mine, but they should provide the same functions.

H/K actually sells their own IR extender system... I’m not sure if they still make it, but it was kind of expensive ($70 if I remember correctly)

I have personally used this cheap solution in the past, and it worked flawlessly when placed correctly:

IR EXTENDER

Edit: I haven’t owned H/K equipment in a few years, so you may want to double check that the connector is compatible, but this worked with my old H/K AVR

Order this or similar: Flipper Big Button Remote for Two Devices - Seniors https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002GR1YZ0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_ryd-BbDDNW6RC

Also, does her cable box have the option to tag some channels as Favorites and go into a screen where you can only scroll through those?

Definitely, here's the first random one I found:

https://www.amazon.com/Inteset-External-Infrared-Center-Receiver/dp/B00J5NRWFO

There are lots though, look around and find something that fits your use case.

Yes
zwave ac ir blaster

I had this problem with my dad that has alzheimer's. He would flip out and unplug stuff every time he got the message that he didn't get the channel. Which was a lot because he had basic cable and the channels he got were spread out though the other channels. The closest option I could find help with this was the flipper

I dont have a shield, but I have an old laptop I use with libreelec and I use this remote. Nothing fancy but works well and is cheap.
Andoer FM4 Magic 2.4G Wireless Remote

I use an old MCE remote, like this. Still has way more buttons than you need for plex.

I bought this keyboard. I immediately returned it. Too big for my taste. The trackpad was meh. The overall feel was cheap.


I instead now use this:


http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0040QE97A?pc_redir=1406030942&robot_redir=1


Highly recommend it.

IR control is the way to go.

Look at http://www.ibroadlink.com/rm/ or https://www.amazon.com/Remotec-Z-Wave-ZXT-120-Extender-Conditioners/dp/B00Q6SXTPS

Many of these more advanced HVAC systems use proprietary controls, so it won't work with any thermostat from another brand.

If your AC has a remote control you can use a z wave IR device to manage the AC. Look up:

https://www.amazon.com/Remotec-Z-Wave-ZXT-120-Extender-Conditioners/dp/B00Q6SXTPS

There are other devices with similar capability as well.

I use one of these zwave IR blasters designed for a/c units.
https://www.amazon.com/Remotec-Z-Wave-ZXT-120-Extender-Conditioners/dp/B00Q6SXTPS

A/C units typically get sent multiple codes at once. Very few learning remotes seem to be able to work. I use this with my Split Duct unit and it works reasonably well.

I have this one, it's about half the cost of the Sidekick and works well (as long as you don't sit too far away from your devices).

You can get any window unit that is controlled by an IR remote to work with Wink using the Remotec ZXT-120 z-wave/IR gateway. You will need a secondary controller to configure the ZXT-120 to control your specific brand of window AC, but after that, it presents to Wink as a thermostat.

One of the reviews on Amazon describes how to get it working Wink, and I can confirm that those instructions work.

[Edit] - more details from the Wink@Home Wiki

My nearly blind grandmother had the same problem and I bought her the Flipper Universal Remote. It's cheap and I just programmed it so it cycles through her 4 favorite stations. She doesn't have to sort through a hundred channels anymore or remember the numbers. She was quite pleased with it. I at first programmed it for 3 channels and she later decided to add a fourth.

It was amazing how much adding the case solved the problem. Even the extremely slim case I got completely eliminated losing it.

I bought a few Tiles to use for both of my ATV4 remotes and I didn't even need one of them because of the case.

Here's the one I bought.

Why not use Cat5e or Cat6a and an HDMI Balun instead? That way you won't have to replace the cable every time someone gets an itch to change the HDMI standards?

https://www.amazon.com/MAXZONE-Infrared-Extension-Transmitter-Compatible/dp/B06XV9V4RM cheaper than a Kinect, turns your TV/Stereo on and off

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XV9V4RM

That's mine
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01B5RF470/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_U-zZxbFHR7XG1

I just assume everyone has https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B01B5RF470/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_lGPzDb45F235Y

https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01B5RF470

Buy one of these to make the remote usable;

https://www.amazon.com/elago-Technology-Anti-Slip-Absorption-Generation/dp/B01B5RF470

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01B5RF470/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_x5EBDb4RHK6P8

Lutron makes a sonos compatible pico remote. May work with that.

​

https://www.amazon.com/Lutron-Caseta-Wireless-Remote-PJ2-3BRL-GWH-A02/dp/B01LC7O9MY

This is what I am using Harmony 650.

This guy right here. With the MCEremote addon for XBMC(kodi, soon) you can map any key with any command. Just remember to launch Kodi as administrator to map them.

Windows7 comes with MCE built in. You will need to disable it to use the remote with XBMC. Just a heads up.

Finally had to break down and get a remote case w/ magnets in it. Add a magnetic strip on the wall or wherever you prefer to store remote and boom.

https://smile.amazon.com/elago-Technology-Anti-Slip-Absorption-Generation/dp/B01B5RF470/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=apple+tv+remote+case+magnetic&qid=1558615096&s=gateway&sr=8-3

(Same link offers 2 magnetic strips for 5.99 in the color section)

I bought the same case as the link below:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01B5RF470/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_keC7CbQVSJEQB

elago case at Amazon

I went with this guy.

Get the original elago version, not a cheap knockoff.

I use this Lutron remote that has Sonos capabilities: https://www.amazon.com/Lutron-Caseta-Wireless-Remote-PJ2-3BRL-GWH-A02/dp/B01LC7O9MY/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1537552044&sr=8-3&keywords=lutron+sonos+remote

You will need a Lutron hub though.

This
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0107W8UP2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_oKSlzb13Y8AEA

And this
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01EV33R8S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apap_OGXWJEm5l6cLU

Are what you're after.

I used this works good

I even bought him this.

Harmony One remote and Dinovo Mini keyboard/mouse.

Do you have your Plex somehow feeding to XBMC or do they just watch the same folders?

The Elago one.

If you are concerned with frame rate or higher resolutions get something that is "HDBaseT". I think they may need to be directly connected to each other, so keep that in mind.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0107W8UP2/

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B018JXPI4M?colid=2WV6NVXZZP2D7&coliid=I12ZYZ7T12F2DD&psc=1&ref_=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl

Although I do not have the dinovo mini I read this amazon review that talks about the difference between the two. The person reviewing says that they have both versions of the controller Here I am currently using the mini to control my htpc that runs windows 7. The price difference was one of the main reasons for getting it over the "dinovo" version.

i have this one https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01B5RF470/ref=pd_bxgy_107_img_3?ie=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B01B5RF470&pd_rd_r=DV2B5YPV5VHZSXGRHV6R&pd_rd_w=lPIDv&pd_rd_wg=vceaD&psc=1&refRID=DV2B5YPV5VHZSXGRHV6R

the one that I use

I use one now because my Logitech one broke. Its okay but nothing compared to http://www.amazon.com/Logitech-Mini-Controller-Revue-Google/dp/B0040QE97A/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1393987253&sr=8-4&keywords=Logitech+diNovo
Im just waiting on this one to break so I can justify buying a Logitech mini again.

Honestly, id suggest going back to the ATV remote and get used to it. I had harmony's on all my TV's and gave the remote another chance recently and checked that it turns on and off everything via HDMI-CEC and have since put all my harmonys into a drawer. To make it easier i got a case for the ATV remote that makes it easier to hold and less likely to loose in your couch, and also so you dont sit there like an idiot swiping up and down when its upside down. https://www.amazon.com/elago-Intelli-ABSORPTION-TECHNOLOGY-INCLUDED/dp/B01B5RF470/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1482162283&sr=8-1&keywords=elago+remote

No matter the configuration, with the ATV theres a few button functionality that you'll miss on the harmony's because of the gestures not being available to be mapped via logitech. I doubt this will come soon as im sure Apple wont release the api commands to the touch portion of their remote for logitech to key in.

I always had problems with the equivalent of swipe up and down, on the harmony's d pad it just never worked right.

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B07NNWRG3B/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

It doesnt go to sleep unlike the Nvidia remote, has dedicated play/pause/volume, even the voice search works.

There are many similar ones on Amazon, some are BT, some have a keyboard on the back, I don't think you can go wrong. Anything is better than the crappy default remote!

Keep in mind, this isn't a tv remote. It simply controls the input and the tv is a separate entity that happens to be connected. For that matter, I've always had a separate remote for the tv. One for the VHS, one for the DVD, one for the TV. Now, I can just use one for finding my show and I leave the volume alone. The only reason I used to adjust the volume regularly was due to commercials being overly loud. Without them, I don't need that option. If I really wanted it, there is an addon that would consolidate all the controls into a single remote.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01B5RF470/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_FMtuzbG70JW1T I use this one. It makes the remote much easier to hold, less accidental button presses, and no more accidentally trying to use the remote upside down.

Hmm. A few years ago I got this one for my mom.

There was no way she could mess up the TV with this.

Boy, was I optimistic.

elago R1 Intelli Case [Black]-[Magnet Technology][Anti-Slip][Lanyard Included][Heavy Shock Absorption] [Durable] for Apple TV Siri Remote 4K / 4th Generation https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01B5RF470/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_UcRvDbCXS0G6T

One I bought had magnets and a strap for gaming I guess

I have the one below and no issues with whatsoever.


elago R1 Intelli Case [Black]-[Magnet Technology][Anti-Slip][Lanyard Included][Heavy Shock Absorption] [Durable] for Apple TV Siri Remote 4K / 4th Generation https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01B5RF470/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_6lNMDb2M6NJ9H

Grab one of these. It makes a huge difference. I no longer accidentally pick it up the wrong way.