This document describes the RCRN03BR Universal Remote Control, a device designed to manage various home entertainment components.
Function Description
The RCRN03BR is a universal remote control capable of operating multiple devices within a home entertainment system. Its primary function is to provide a single control unit for TVs, DVD players, satellite receivers, cable boxes, digital TV converters, PVRs, and VCRs. The remote comes with pre-programmed codes for most RCA-branded TVs, DVD players, and satellite receivers, allowing for immediate use with these devices by simply pressing the corresponding device key (e.g., TV, DVD•VCR, SAT•CBL•DTC).
The remote offers several programming methods to enable control of non-RCA or other branded devices:
- Auto Code Search: This method automatically cycles through all available codes for a specific device type until the correct one is found. It is generally the easiest method but can take longer.
- Brand Code Search: This method focuses on codes for select brands listed in an accompanying code list, potentially offering a faster programming experience if the device's brand is included.
- Direct Code Entry: This method allows users to manually input a five-digit code from a provided code list for their specific device brand. It is often the fastest method if the code is known.
- Manual Code Search: This method involves manually cycling through codes one by one until the device responds. This can be a lengthy process, especially if the brand is not listed in the Brand Codes or Code Lists.
Once programmed, the remote's keys are designed to perform functions similar to those on the original remotes of the controlled devices. The illuminated POWER key serves as an indicator for feedback during operation and programming. Device keys (TV, SAT•CBL•DTC, DVD•VCR) are used to switch the remote into the correct mode for controlling a specific device. The GUIDE and MENU keys provide access to menu and guide features, while the EXIT key is used to exit programming modes and perform its standard remote function. Arrow keys facilitate navigation within device guides and menu systems.
The INPUT•DIGITAL and — (dash) key has three distinct functions:
- It toggles through all video sources connected to the TV.
- In VCR mode, it switches between VCR and TV input.
- When entering digital channel numbers, it separates the main channel number from the sub-channel number (e.g., 59.1).
A dedicated Backlight key allows users to turn the key backlighting on or off.
The remote also includes advanced functions such as:
- Reassigning the DVD•VCR Key: By default, the DVD•VCR key controls DVD players. This function allows users to reassign it to control a VCR instead.
- Volume Punch-Through: This feature automatically directs volume (VOL) and mute (MUTE) commands to the TV, even when the remote is in SAT•CBL•DTC or DVD•VCR modes, allowing volume control without switching modes. This does not apply if the component device has its own volume/mute controls.
- Transport Key Punch-Through: This feature automatically directs transport commands (REVERSE, PLAY, FORWARD, RECORD, STOP, PAUSE, SKIP BACK, SLOW, SKIP FWD) to the DVD•VCR mode, even when the remote is in TV or SAT•CBL•DTC modes. This enables control of DVD/VCR functions without exiting the current mode, particularly useful if the transport keys were last used in DVD mode. This does not apply if the device has its own transport key data (e.g., a satellite receiver with a built-in DVR).
- Channel Lock: This function allows channel commands (CH, GO BACK, and 0-9 number keys) to be automatically sent to a satellite receiver, cable box, or digital TV converter even when the remote is in TV mode, streamlining channel changes if a device other than the TV is used for this purpose.
The remote also supports Code Retrieval, enabling users to find and record the five-digit code for each programmed device. This is useful for future reference or if the code was forgotten, allowing for quick reprogramming using the Direct Code Entry method.
Usage Features
To use the remote, two AAA alkaline batteries (not included) must be installed. The battery compartment cover is removed, batteries are inserted matching the polarity marks (+ and -), and the cover is replaced.
Programming a Device (Auto Code Search):
- Manually turn on the device to be controlled.
- Press and hold the desired device key (e.g., TV, SAT•CBL•DTC, DVD•VCR).
- While holding the device key, press and hold the POWER key simultaneously. The POWER key will turn off.
- Release both keys. The POWER key will come on and stay on.
- Point the remote at the device and press PLAY. Wait 5 seconds. The remote tests a batch of 10 codes.
- If the device turns off, press REVERSE and wait 2 seconds. If the device turns on, press STOP to save the code. If the device does not turn off, press PLAY again to test the next batch of codes. If the device turns off and then immediately back on, continue to step 5.
- If the device turns off, press REVERSE and wait 2 seconds. If the device turns on, press STOP to save the code. If the device does not turn on, keep pressing REVERSE every 2 seconds until it turns on, then press STOP. If REVERSE is pressed accidentally after the device turns on, press FORWARD and wait 2 seconds to see if the device turns off again.
Programming a Device (Brand Code Search):
- Manually turn on the device.
- Find the device's brand in the accompanying code list and note its number.
- Press and hold the desired device key. The POWER key illuminates.
- While holding the device key, press and hold the POWER key simultaneously. The POWER key turns off.
- Release both keys. The POWER key comes on and stays on.
- Enter the brand code number using the remote keypad (for single-digit codes, press 0 first).
- Point the remote at the device and press POWER. Wait 2 seconds. The remote tests a single code for the brand.
- If the device turns off, press STOP to save the code. If not, press POWER again every 2 seconds until it turns off, then press STOP.
Programming a Device (Direct Code Entry):
- Manually turn on the device.
- Find the device's brand and its five-digit code in the accompanying code list.
- Press and hold the desired device key. The POWER key illuminates.
- While holding the device key, press and hold the POWER key simultaneously. The POWER key turns off.
- Release both keys. The POWER key comes on and stays on.
- Enter the five-digit code using the remote keypad.
- After entering the code, the POWER key should illuminate. If it blinks four times and turns off, the code was invalid or a step was missed; retry from step 3. If it stays on, release the device key. The device key is now programmed.
Programming a Device (Manual Code Search):
- Manually turn on the device.
- Press and hold the desired device key. The POWER key illuminates.
- While holding the device key, press and hold the POWER key simultaneously. The POWER key turns off.
- Release both keys. The POWER key comes on and stays on.
- Point the remote at the device and press POWER. Wait 2 seconds. The remote tests a single code.
- If the device turns off, press STOP to save the code. If not, press POWER again every 2 seconds until it turns off, then press STOP. This process may require pressing POWER many times.
Testing the Code for Maximum Functionality:
After programming, try various functions of the device with the remote. If some features do not work, try programming a different code from the list using the Direct Code Entry method, as different codes can offer varying levels of functionality.
Turning Channel Lock On:
- Press and hold the device key used to change channels.
- While holding the device key, press and hold the CH up key simultaneously.
- Wait until the POWER key comes on and stays on. Release both keys.
- Press ENTER to lock channel commands to this device.
Turning Channel Lock Off:
- Press and hold the TV key.
- While holding the TV key, press and hold the CH down key simultaneously.
- Wait until the POWER key comes on and stays on. Release both keys.
- Press ENTER to start changing channels with the TV.
Code Retrieval:
- Press and hold the device key (TV, SAT•CBL•DTC, DVD•VCR) for the code to retrieve. The POWER key illuminates.
- While holding the device key, press and hold the INFO key. The POWER key turns off. After 3 seconds, the POWER key turns back on.
- Release both keys. The POWER key remains on.
- Starting with the number 1 key, press and release each number key on the keypad in order (1-9, then 0). The number that causes the POWER key to blink is the first digit of the code. Record it.
- Repeat step 4 until all five numbers of the code are retrieved. After the fifth number, the POWER key blinks briefly and turns off.
Maintenance Features
- Keep the remote dry: If it gets wet, wipe it dry immediately.
- Normal temperature environment: Use and store the remote only in normal temperature conditions.
- Gentle handling: Handle the remote gently and carefully; avoid dropping it.
- Cleanliness: Keep the remote away from dust and dirt.
- Regular cleaning: Wipe the remote with a damp cloth occasionally to keep it looking new.
- Battery replacement: Always remove old, weak, or worn-out batteries promptly. Recycle or dispose of them according to local and national regulations. Do not mix old and new batteries, or different types of batteries (alkaline, carbon-zinc, rechargeable).
- Programming retention: Save the manual and code lists, as the remote may lose its programming when batteries are changed, requiring reprogramming.