I've got a Lite-on 5045 HDD/DVD recorder with which I'm very happy. But I wanted a separate DVD player for when the 5045 is recording.

I got a good deal on a Lite-on A-100X, which is a DVD recorder. It works great.

The problem is that using a remote control makes both machines operate at the same time, not such a good idea as I want them in the same room.

Any ideas on what to do?

Some possibilities:

1. Look in manual for "remote code" or similar and see if those units can have user-set codes, like 1, 2, 3, as some machines do for using with other equip.

2. Separate units farther if poss. (unless remote has wide active path).

3. Black tape over unit you don't want to disturb when playing with other unit.

4. Make remote more directional with a kluge like described here. (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=14105038#post14105038)

5. Check Radio Shack for super-directional diode and replace in remote (might require soldering and not even sure there is such a diode available).

You can also do what I've done at times: turn one unit on manually, play with it until other unit needed, then Power button turns 1st unit off and 2nd unit on (toggles power between them). Doesn't solve problem when both units have to be on at same time.

The Panasonic and Pioneer DVD HD recorders have 3 remote control codes to avoid conflicts. The Philips DVD HD recorder only has the one it comes with. I assume your Lite-On is like the Philips and does not include changeable remote control codes?

Short of buying another player use the unit's manual controls when the recorder is recording. If that doesn't work then you have no choice but to buy another player.

Short of buying another player use the unit's manual controls when the recorder is recording. If that doesn't work then you have no choice but to buy another player.

Well, there is this, along with wajo's other suggestions:


4. Make remote more directional with a kluge like described here. (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=14105038#post14105038)

I had a similar problem and placed the two units at right angles to each other, which helped as I could angle the remote and operate one without triggering the other (usually), might try this if your setup allows. A kludge for sure, though.

I use a small black towel to cover the front of the one I don't want to disturb.

I use a small black towel to cover the front of the one I don't want to disturb.

Except for checking to see if there are separate remote codes to choose from, I think the above is the best advice. I have a similar conflict between my TiVo and my Pioneer Receiver. Whenever I select the DVD input on the Pioneer, it also sends a menu command to my TiVo. Normally, this is not a problem. If I am watching a DVD, it does not matter if the TiVo goes back to the menu. But if I am transferring a program from the TiVo to my Panasonic recorder, it causes the TiVo to display a "REC" warning icon. My solution was as above except I use a piece of cardboard that drapes down in front of the TiVo to block the IR signal.
-Bill

Aluminum foil is another good IR blocker. You can tape a small piece to the top of the unit, so it hangs down and covers the sensor. When not using it, just fold it up, and it will stay.

I've used a piece of good quality black electrical tape. Scotch 33+ is my favorite. It sticks over the IR sensor, doesn't leave in residue and can be easily removed and re-stuck for dozens of times. Don't use something like gray heat duct tape though. It will leave a sticky residue over the IR sensor and also be hard to remove.