Harmony 720 Official Thread. For all info and FAQs [Text View]

Ladd

05-31-06, 06:42 PM

Yes, here is a link to it...
http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11121630&whse=BC&topnav=&browse=
Yup, same link I provided by clicking the word "Costco". :)

Note: if anyone's browser doesn't highlight the active links in my above posting, "Costco", "U.S. Logitech site" and "U.K. Logitech site" are clickable links going to the respective site.

Went to my local Target today and no sign of the 720 as has been reported in another discussion thread, although they did have the 520. Didn't think to try Wal-Mart (and I was even there, in the garden section), 'cause it never occured to me they would sell a remote so expensive.

I'ld love to see one of these remotes as I will most likely purchase either a 676 or a 720.

WaldorfSalad

05-31-06, 06:44 PM

Yup, same link I provided by clicking the word "Costco". :)LOL! I see that now. The word "Costco" cunningly disguised as a link. I need to figure out how to that. ;)

sknight1

05-31-06, 07:15 PM

Is the only difference between the 720 and the 880 (other than the layout) a smaller LCD screen and two fewer activity buttons?

Thanks!

Ladd

06-01-06, 09:07 PM

Checked my local Wal-Mart this evening and they do, in fact, have the Harmony 720 hanging right next to the 520. Price was $194.

The package does mention "backlighting" but I couldn't find a "glow" button on it. Perhaps it has a tilt sensor like the 880?

The transport buttons seem like they might be a bit low, but I guess that would be decided by where the balance point is.

WaldorfSalad

06-03-06, 02:04 AM

My local Walmart has the new 720 next to the 520 (that I have) and I tried to play with it today despite the packaging and I would tend to agree that the buttons, especially the transports, are not laid out very well and not as good as the 520.

Ladd

06-03-06, 08:58 AM

As noted in my post above, I agree that the transport buttons appear to be a bit low - and given that 99% of my TV watching is either cable-supplied DVR or my own TiVo, transport control usage is at the top of my list.

I'm still guessing that the weight of the battery and the resulting balance point is important to know. There is plenty of room for one's hand to grasp the remote so that the fingers fall naturally over the transport keys -- if the remote is balanced when holding there, then that might be OK.

We'll just have to wait until someone can actually hold a 720 in their bare hands outside of the packaging and offer a report.

I'm not a big fan of the cradle-charging requirement either, although I could see it being convenient to folks who have an easy place to put the crade. I have several NiMH chargers and a drawer full of batteries, so keeping batteries charged and swapping them out wouldn't be an issue for me.

This (and price and location of transport controls) is one of the reasons I'm still considering the purchase of a 676. As you like your 520, it's time for me to review that one again too.*

I am drawn to the color screen, however, as I'm finding that the impending doom of old age is making it increasing difficult to see things close** and I am thinking that the color icons would make it easier for my lovely bride and myself to "read" which button is the "play DVD" button without memorizing the location. Wife Acceptance Factor, ya know?

*Checking the Logitech site, I see that, like the 720 there is no info on the 520, only the 550. Which one is now the current model?
UPDATE: I see that the 520 is listed on the Canadian Logitech Site (http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm/products/productlistharmony/CA/EN,CRID=2080) .

**It will NOT be advisable to ask my wife to put on her reading glasses every time she wants to change activities!

petelang

06-05-06, 02:07 PM

I too was at Wal-mart in Derry, NH last night and saw the 720(no price on the peg hook). They also had the 520 next to it. I went to look for the info on Logitech's website today and found squat. Found the link to this page via Google.

I have a Denon 3806 and a 2910, Moto 6412 DVR, Mitsubishi 52725 DLP RPTV, and some other gear I want to get one remote for. The Denon remote is crappy to say the least. I want to be able to control all the functions of the TV, Receiver, and the Cablebox with one remote.

chefklc

06-10-06, 08:43 AM

We'll just have to wait until someone can actually hold a 720 in their bare hands outside of the packaging and offer a report.

Happy to oblige. I picked up a 720 from my local Costco a few days ago ($169) and figured I'd add a few comments.

The U.K. Logitech website has photos and information on a model 785 that is almost, but not quite the same as the 720 shown in the photo above (there is a row of colored buttons between the transport buttons and the number buttons)

My sense is it's exactly the same, except for those odd colored buttons, which may have to do with "teletext."

are the buttons backlit, especially the # buttons?

They are backlit, not quite as successfully as the keyboard of an aluminum Powerbook, but then the keys and symbols on the remote are smaller. If there is a way to adjust the brightness or turn it off I haven't come across how to, yet. In a dark room, once your eyes adjust, they're visible but not obnoxiously so. The LCD is very VERY bright in the dark.

Perhaps it has a tilt sensor like the 880?

The transport buttons seem like they might be a bit low, but I guess that would be decided by where the balance point is.

It does have the motion sensor.

When I hold the 720 I like where the transport buttons are, the back of the remote slopes and protrudes in just the right places for it to seem acceptable, my thumb can reach them acceptably and still reach the channel and volume up and down controls, and it's nicely balanced considering the form. It does not seem in any way a natural extension of the hand though, a la Tivo or previous gen Harmony. I have a big hand, I suspect someone with small hands might feel that the 720 styling is too top heavy, and significantly less natural than the peanut/figure 8.

Normal use--hold it at the top--press your activity button--keep it aimed until it does it's business--then shift your grip down to the bottom for volume, channel, transport, etc.

I'm not a big fan of the cradle-charging requirement either, although I could see it being convenient to folks who have an easy place to put the crade. I have several NiMH chargers and a drawer full of batteries, so keeping batteries charged and swapping them out wouldn't be an issue for me.

It's too new for me add anything substantive to this, except to say the battery does seem to be strong and have good life. I'm tired of swapping rechargeable batteries in and out of my remotes, bluetooth keyboard and mouse, frankly, so don't mind an odd lithium ion battery as long as it holds up fairly well over time. We'll see. I've left it off the cradle on purpose for several days and with intermittent but normal use the battery indicator still shows a full 3 bars. The day I programmed the thing (6 hours total testing and tweaking and experimenting) I tried to run it down and didn't get it below two bars. It doesn't fit so snugly--and obviously--in the cradle as some would probably like, but you do get used to sliding it in just so after a while, the sensor strip is grooved and you hear an audible beep when you drop it in there correctly. The three tiny brass sensors of the 880 have been replaced on the 720 by two much longer, wider sensors.

I'm going to live with it for a while longer.

WaldorfSalad

06-10-06, 02:33 PM

Does the 720 have a cradle charger or is it purely batteries like the 360/520/550?

Ladd

06-11-06, 03:15 PM

Happy to oblige. I picked up a 720 from my local Costco a few days ago ($169) ...
Congrats for being the first person here to actually touch and try out one of these guys!

I just purchased one off eBay and if I'm lucky it will be here in a few days.

Ladd

06-14-06, 08:57 PM

Does the 720 have a cradle charger or is it purely batteries like the 360/520/550?
Cradle. The remote easily "snicks" into place and appears to not have the problem that the early 880's did.

Ladd

06-14-06, 09:04 PM

Can anyone offer a clue as to where I can search to find out how to set up the "Listen to Music" activity so that my Sony A/V receiver will go to one of the radio frequencies assigned to a preset?

My receiver has three groups of ten presets (A: 0-9, B: 0-9, and C: 0-9). Adding the command "preset" and "7" to the music activity changes the tuner to preset #7 in whichever group was active last time the tuner was used (i.e. preset A7 if the last preset was anywhere in the "A" grouping, B7 if the preset was anywhere in the "B" grouping, etc).

There are no device commands available for "A", "B" or "C", so there must be some other way to tell the receiver which preset group to use.

I suppose I could try to do a direct entry sequence, but having the remote shoot out all the numbers individually (i.e. 1-0-7-.5-0) is awkward...

Ladd

06-15-06, 11:02 AM

A minor inconvenience is how to direct tune HD OTA TV stations.

There is no "." hard key, so if I want to go to my local CBS HD OTA station, there appears to be no easy way to punch in "9.1" ...

I'll try mapping "." to the "record" transport key, since I don't think I'll be using the "record" function while watching TV.

Ladd

06-15-06, 05:56 PM

BTW: when registering the remote and going through the intial setup, I was instructed to select from two categories -- is my remote an "880/890" or "all others".

I selected "880/890" because the 720 has a color screen. I don't know what would happen if you selected "all others".

Once the computer actually connects to remote and uploads the info, the Logitech website accurately displays that I have a 720 and shows the appropriate photo.

Ashe Too

06-19-06, 12:36 AM

I took delivery of a Harmony 720 last Thursday. I got it from Costco. Other than Costco's slow turn around processing the order, I had no problem getting it.

It feels really good in my hand. Well balanced and solid constuction. The activity buttons beside the color screen require a little too much effort. The rubber buttons have a little too much travel and I don't always press them far enough.

The set up was frustrating because the new version 5.2 software didn't want to load my settings to the remote. At some point, the remote screen said "go to website to update remote." So I went to the website, and the update was flawless. Since then, I've confined my tinkering to using the web software, which seems about as intuitive as the Harmony software on my computer. After getting familiar with the device and after tweaking a few configuration and function issues, it works better than I would have imagined.

It not only passed the wife acceptance factor, it earned her praise and I even got a kiss! My wife is generally good with technology but she resisted getting a new remote. Once I showed it how easy it would be to use - especially to switch from watching TV to watching DVD or listening to CD, she was sold on its simplicity and ease of use. She likes the way it looks too.

So, I would rate this a 4.25 out of 5 (mainly because the buttons need refinement in their tactile quality and the software was initially frustrating).

Ladd

06-19-06, 09:06 AM

I also get the "go to website to update the remote" error about a third of the time. I figured out the problem (at least with my setup).

I have the Harmony software set to "watch the download folder" so that after the hex file is downloaded to the computer, the harmony software will automatically upload the data to the remote. For some reason, I believe the software tries to upload the data to the remote before the file is fully downloaded to the computer.

After the upload fails with the "go back to the website" error (which I'm guessing is a generic way of saying "the upload did not successfully complete, please try again"), simply double-clicking on the fully-downloaded data file on my desktop always results in a successful update of the remote.

I can tell if the automatic upload is going to fail, because the "thermometer bar" that measures the upload of the data to the remote goes much faster than what you see if the upload is successful.

Since this "upload failed" issue didn't crop up until near the end of my initial configuration of the remote (probably 40 uploads over a span of two days), if I was a gambling man, I'ld guess the problem has some relation to the downloaded data's file size.

I started remote configuration by listing every component I had on the website and after spending more than a short while drowning in the bazillion options offered by the website when selecting the "let me show you all actions available for your group of components", I deleted everything except the TV and the A/V receiver. Then I always selected the "let me add the Actions I desire manually" option and started to slowly add the specific actions I wanted. This way I had a much better idea of what to do and how to go about it when later adding additional devices one at a time (TiVo, Cable DVR, DVD player, etc.) and adding Actions that pertain to those devices.

Since I didn't get the "please go to the website to update the remote error" until after I had added numerous components and configurations*, I'm guessing the downloaded file size got to a point that it triggered something on my end so that the upload to the remote started before the file was fully download. The first thing I would test is if my automatic anti-virus scan of downloaded files, even though quick on such a small file, is somehow gumming up the works by introducing some sort of delay between the time the file is fully download and the time that it is "ready" to be uploaded. Perhaps this delay is confusing the Harmony software update process.

But I haven't tested this because the problem didn't occur until almost the end of my configuration process and now that I'm rarely updating the remote anymore, there is no annoyance. And since I can just turn off the Harmony software "watch for downloaded files" option and start the remote update manually by double-clicking the downloaded hex file, it's just not a bother anymore.

I can also confirm the high WAF -- after getting the remote mostly configured, I presented it to her as the gift of being able to actually use the home theater system in the living room (i.e., listen to FM and CDs). My lovely bride narrowed her eyes and said "and how much did this cost?" Five minutes later she was saying, "well, this is cool" and "that HELP feature is very nice" and "so we can program in the buttons for my favorite radio stations?"

:)

*I could try removing the photos from the slide show to reduce the downloaded file size -- it's possible that the update error began around the time I added them. Perhaps it is as guessed simply a matter of download files size, perhaps it is more specifically related to having photos in the configuration.

Ladd

06-21-06, 12:24 PM

I was stunned to see today that after only six days of use, numerous text labels printed on the case under the Transport Control buttons have worn off completely. There is no text label left at all under the SKIP BACK, PLAY, SKIP FORWARD or PAUSE buttons, and the word "Skip" that is printed on the case under the SKIP button is almost completely gone.

Yes, I use the transport control buttons almost exclusively, but that's what they are there for. I don't see how I could have overused the buttons in only a few hours of use. I don't have chemicals, hand cream or sandpaper on my fingers.

While I would not be happy that the text wore off after a year of use, at least it would be slightly understandable.

But SIX DAYS!?

http://www.windinthetrees.com/HarmonyRemoteTextFade.jpg

.

Edit: The remote pictured above was cheerfully replaced by Logitech and the replacement remote has been in use for over a month with no apparent degradation of text labels.

Pure Speculation: as one of the first people in the U.S. to get one of these, perhaps there was a quality control issue with the first batch.

Ladd

06-23-06, 03:40 PM

No response from Logitech after three business days, regarding the issue of button label text from rubbing off almost immediately.

But for folks who might be interested, the large selection of "favorite channel" icons that are discussed at length in the Harmony 880 discussion threads work just fine on the 720.

http://www.windinthetrees.com/harmony720withicons.jpg

rmastbro

06-24-06, 01:56 PM

Does anyone know how to goto the favorite channels without clicking the favorite channel button whenever I select an activity ?

I would to click "Watch Directv" and goto the favorite channel automatically. Right now I have to click the an extra button to do this ...

Has anyone been able to do this ?

Also does the 720 have a tilt sensor or motion sensor or both ?

I had the 880 for a couple of days and whenever I picked it up the light came on automatically.

I verified that the "Enable tilt sensor" was selected in the software setup. I have to shake it really hard for the light to come on. I think it may be defective..

Thanks,

Rich

Ladd

06-24-06, 03:46 PM

rmastbro

06-25-06, 12:27 AM

Re: Tilt sensor vs motion sensor.

I think it's more of a tilt sensor than a motion sensor, but in any case, mine requires only picking it up or a gentle tilt of the wrist (along the long axis of the remote) to get the glow light to come on.

If getting the glow light to come on requires a motion that needs to be described as "shaking", then I might guess that something is not working correctly for you.

Thanks for the info.... I will go return it to Costco for another...

What about this ...

Do you know how to goto the favorite channels without clicking the favorite channel button whenever I select an activity ?

I have a older Pronto and I programmed this feature... It's kind of a pain that I have to click "favorite channels" every time I choose a new activity for my directv. (I have created multiple activities since I can only store a limited amount different channels per activity. So I created Directv (Networks), Directv (Sports) .. ect....

Ladd

06-25-06, 11:10 AM

Do you know how to goto the favorite channels without clicking the favorite channel button whenever I select an activity ?
I poked around for a moment and don't immediately find a way to do that. But I'll bet it can be done.

Try a search of the 880 discussion thread (lots of posts there) or as a last resort (or first, if you simply want to get the correct answer right away) simply call the Logitech support line and they'll set it up for you if not easily doable yourself.

neuroking

06-25-06, 07:17 PM

I got a 720 at Costco last week. I'm really impressed. My last universal was a Kameleon, which was waaaay too sensitive to motion. The 720 responds to 'true' movements. Setup took a good 30 minutes or so, but part of that was me futzing with the slide show that plays when you place it back in the cradle. I only had one thing to change after the initial setup, and there is still some more customizing to do, but overall I'm really happy with it. I have it set to control my TV, receiver, DVD, PS2, XBox, and HTPC.

I only wish there was an expert mode for tweaking. THose wizard interfaces annoy the crap out of me. There was some confusion during setup because there wasn't a full list of hardware at first. For instance, no HTPC option is visible during the initial setup, but after I went back to edit the activity, viola! That and I would like to change the activity icons, which isn't allowed (yet).

To Ladd: Call Logitech. I had the same problem with my Logitech G15 keyboard. Supposedly a prerelease batch was sent into retail of those, and I'm hoping teh same thing didn't happen here, sine the website still doesn't even list the 720. In the case of the G15, they sent out a new one that I recevied in 3 days, and I didn't even need to send the original back.

I posted this on the Logitech support forums, but its worth noting here, too.

gadgtman

06-26-06, 10:51 AM

I got a 720 at Costco last week.
Did you buy it at a store or online? My local Costco told me these were only available online.

Ladd

06-26-06, 01:07 PM

Not that you asked me specifically, but I'm pretty sure the 720 is only available from Costco via their online site. You can, however, return it to a brick and mortar Costco if you wish/need to.

The Harmony 720 remote is hanging on the hooks, available for immediate purchase at the three Wal-Marts I've been in over the last month.

And they can be purchase on eBay (new) for significant savings if you're lucky and/or not in a hurry.

gadgtman

06-26-06, 01:33 PM

Ladd

06-26-06, 04:20 PM

Update:

Received an email this afternoon (Monday) from Logitech support acknowleding receipt of the email sent last Wednesday early morning regarding the button text labels wearing off. It was polite, said that they would send me a new one and to mail the current one (to Canada) after receipt of the new one.

No mention of my actual issue, futher information regarding same or assurances that it won't happen again, but, to be candid, my expectations that that would have happened were low. So it looks like a new remote will be on its way to me shortly and I'll be out the dollars it will take to return it; hopefully this button text wearing off won't happen on remote #2.

neuroking

06-26-06, 10:42 PM

Did you buy it at a store or online? My local Costco told me these were only available online.

I bought it at a brick and mortar store. Glenview, IL had an pallet endcap with a ton of them. I can confirm 100% they are in SOME stores. I was just out to the Avon, Mass. store (I was visiting family in IL) and they did not have them. I guess it is kinda hit or miss.

gadgtman

06-27-06, 01:58 PM

Just picked up a 720 at Walmart, charging it up and will compare it to my 550 tonight. Design wise, I'm liking the 720 better - I like the fact that the transport buttons are right above the number pad. And I like the fact that the Volume and Channel buttons are straight vs. curved at the bottom (on the 550).

One of these is going back soon.

gadgtman

06-28-06, 07:22 AM

I fired up my 720 using all the stored settings (Devices and Activities) previously entered for my 550, figuring everything would work fine. What I found is that Custom Actions that I added at the end of the Activity doesn't work.

EX: when watching a DVD, I turn my TV, reciever and DVD player on, then added Custom Actions to turn on the internal mute of my TV. It starts out by sending the Menu command successfully, but then won't execute the DirectionRight commands to get me to the mute selection. This worked fine on the 550.

Any ideas?

Ladd

06-28-06, 05:51 PM

No solid clues, other than I recall reading that downloading one remote's configuration into another can cause weirdness ...

If you receive no actual useful tips from folks here, you might try deleting the Custom Action (i.e. TV Mute) that doesn't work and then re-entering it.

If that doesn't work, you could then try deleting the full Activity (i.e. watch DVD) that contains the recalcitrant Action and re-entering it.

Or you might call the Logitech support folks; they have a good reputation for help and perhaps they would have a secret trick to make the TV Mute work.

gadgtman

06-30-06, 07:58 AM

I've gone through 2 720's and for some really strange reason, the DirectRight command for my TV (to scroll through menus) will not work. The DirectLeft works.....Logitech is stumped.

Other than that, so far so good.

rmastbro

07-01-06, 12:00 AM

I can confirm that Super Target has the Logitech Harmony 720, well at least the one in Orlando, FL does.

CHG

07-02-06, 02:17 AM

They do have these at some local Costco's. I picked up one of these at the Costco near me today. They had a ton of them. I did not even know that this was out. I was just on their website looking to see if any thing new was out and it is still not listed.

Ladd

07-03-06, 04:32 PM

I just remembered a bit of information that I meant to post earlier and forgot until now:

The Harmony 720 comes packed in the dreaded heat-sealed blister packs that we have all come to know and despise. Some of us have scars from the battle to free other purchased items from these blister packs.

I want folks to know that the blister pack that the Harmony 720 comes in is possibly one of the very first ever that is designed to actually be opened by the average human with only their hands and with minimal risk of injury.

The bottom and side seams of the blister pack are perforated; the bottom panel has an arrow molded into the plastic where if you push down at this location with one thumb and pull the seam with your other hand, the plastic will begin to come apart. You then just work the perforations apart until the blister-pack opens up like a clam shell.

The bottom-left and bottom-right corners require a bit of minor persuading, but overall, opening up this blister pack with its perforations is light-years easier than any other one I've ever seen.

bryanb

07-03-06, 07:25 PM

eortizr

07-04-06, 03:17 AM

Does anyone has a Panasonic HT940 and got the Harmony 720 to work properly with it?

The problem I having is that the Panasonic has 1 button to go directly to the DVD player, 1 button for AM/FM Tuner, but to go to TV input you has to press an input select button. And when I press watch DVD in the remote it does goes to the DVD player and so with the Tuner, but when I press Watch TV the receiver does not goes to the TV input... HELP!!!
thanks

Ladd

07-04-06, 12:27 PM

On June 19, I posted here a photo and some descriptive text regarding a problem with the button label text rubbing off the case of my new Harmony 720.

I sent an email to Logitech about the problem on June 21 and while their reply on June 26 did not address the problem specifically or if it had been solved, they did offer to replace the remote. The new remote arrived yesterday, July 3.

Hopefully the new text will last longer, but I have nothing but optimism to support that hope.

Here's a photo of what the Transport button label text on the original remote looks like today (about two weeks later than the first photo) -- it continues to disappear ...

http://www.windinthetrees.com/harmony/HarmonyRemoteTextFade2.jpg

gadgtman

07-04-06, 05:39 PM

You guys are having much better luck finding this than me. I've been to 2 Costcos, 2 WalMarts and 2 Targets. Costco had nothing. WalMart and Target had the 520 only. Is the remote normally near the 520?

Can anyone compare this one to the 880?
From what I can tell, this is very, very similar to the 880, but in a much more elegant design that is easier to use. I found myself stretching towards the bottomm of the 880 when trying to press the number keys. The 720 is much easier to locate the number keys. The biggest plus though is that the keys are separated (although smaller).

eortizr

07-04-06, 08:40 PM

Well... finally... its workin just fine.... got to say... I'm very happy with it, still to learn all the features and stuff.. but I love the favorites display

ronbo1011

07-05-06, 08:45 PM

From what I can tell, this is very, very similar to the 880, but in a much more elegant design that is easier to use. I found myself stretching towards the bottomm of the 880 when trying to press the number keys. The 720 is much easier to locate the number keys. The biggest plus though is that the keys are separated (although smaller).

Just to add to this I have an 880 and a 720 .The LCD display on the 720 appears to be much clearer and sharper. I like the feel of both remotes but like the bigger buttons on the 720,Also the 720 has 24 places for fav channels compared to the 16 on the 880

Harden

07-06-06, 12:10 PM

They have a billion of them in the Costcos in DC. Just picked one up.

Ladd

07-06-06, 03:50 PM

They must be rolling them out in the stores gradually -- I specifically looked July 3rd for one at the Costco in Frederick MD (about an hour from DC) and they didn't have one.

As noted earlier, however, I purchased mine "new in sealed blister pak" off of eBay over a month ago. ($114 delivered)

dragn017

07-06-06, 03:58 PM

just curious, i have the harmony 360 and was wondering if the hard buttons (channel, volume, direction) make a clicking noise like they do on my harmony 360...it's really annoying. and are the numeric numbers soft/rubbery or hard/plastic? and ore more :p can you sort the menu once you're inside an activity? thanks, this looks like a pretty cool remote

Ladd

07-06-06, 10:55 PM

The only buttons on the 720 that make the "clicking" sound are the silver ones.

These are the directional/OK grouping right above the Transport buttons -- left arrow, right arrow, up arrow, down arrow and "OK" in the center of those.

Also the silver buttons surrounding the directional/OK buttons: Volume up and down, and Channel up and down

Also the three selection buttons on either side of the color LCD.

And the large Activity button at the very top.

Sounds like a lot, but it doesn't seem that way when using the remote.

I had to go back to the remote to check on this -- the only ones I remembered clicking (and being annoying) were the directional/OK buttons. Turns out all the silver buttons click, but the others had never bothered me. Probably because I use the directional/OK buttons much more.

Anyway, to recap -- the silver buttons click, the others don't.

bryanb

07-07-06, 02:19 AM

My 720 arrives tomorrow. Hopefully it works out better than the 880, which I found to be awkward, especially compared to my MX-500.

Bryan

bryanb

07-08-06, 02:14 AM

I got my 720 today. The layout is definitely superior to the 880. With the 880 it was almost impossible for me to tell if I was hitting channel up, down or prev without looking at it.

Overall though, I think there are quite a few design flaws even on the 720. For instance, there isn't enough tactile difference between the buttons just below the LCD screen. In my mind, the controls for paging through the LCD screen should be significantly different enough from the guide/menu etc. controls.

I still prefer the MX-500 so far, but I'm going to give the 720 a few more days.

b

timify10

07-10-06, 03:38 PM

Does anyone "still" have any issues with character rubbing off with the new Harmony remotes?

I am itching to buy one of these for my Home Theater.

Tim

gadgtman

07-10-06, 07:44 PM

Does anyone "still" have any issues with character rubbing off with the new Harmony remotes?

I am itching to buy one of these for my Home Theater.

Tim
Nope - loving my 720

HCK

07-10-06, 11:38 PM

Does anyone "still" have any issues with character rubbing off with the new Harmony remotes?

I am itching to buy one of these for my Home Theater.

Tim
Yes. I bought mine at Costco four days ago and the Skip button label is no more.

gadgtman

07-11-06, 08:12 AM

Yes. I bought mine at Costco four days ago and the Skip button label is no more.
How often do you use the transport keys?

HCK

07-11-06, 09:00 AM

How often do you use the transport keys?

Fairly often. I have a ReplyTV PVR and use the Skip/Replay keys to advance through commercials and to "rewind" when skipping too far. Interestingly, my ReplayTV remote, which is a few years old, has all of its labels intact.

eortizr

07-11-06, 05:27 PM

Does anyone "still" have any issues with character rubbing off with the new Harmony remotes?

I am itching to buy one of these for my Home Theater.

Tim

Not in mine... have it for 2 weeks now... lot of use,,, still like new

dbdynsty25

07-12-06, 04:04 AM

I've got an interesting problem. I had the 880 and it kept "resetting" itself, so I ditched it. It was pretty destroyed from the dogs knocking it off tables and couches all the time so it was probably time to replace it anyway (had it since release). So I picked up a 550. The thing just doesn't control my HD Tivo (DirecTV version) correctly. The buttons work sometimes and sometimes they don't. You don't have NEARLY the same control as you do with the original Tivo remote. This wasn't a big problem with the 880 because it was pretty close to as responsive and I got used to the slight lag. Lag is different than just not working at all. That is the problem I'm having with the 550. It works fine controlling my stereo from a volume point of view...the issue is the Tivo receiver and since that's the only thing I use, it's important that it works correctly or at least closely to the original Tivo remote.

Does the 720 improve on that? I know it's a really strange situation and only people that have the same equipment as I do can relate...so maybe this is just a ridiculous question.

bryanb

07-12-06, 02:06 PM

dbdynsty25

07-12-06, 05:53 PM

The receiver just didn't recognize the button presses. I found a 720 at a local Wal-Mart so I'm going to give it the rundown tonight. If it doesn't improve upon the 550, they will both go back...I have to find something that controls the Tivo at least close to how the original remote does. The 880 I had was better than the 550...thanks man.

timify10

07-12-06, 10:35 PM

It looks like Costco isn't selling the 720 on their website anymore. :( I smell a recall because of the buttons/lettering.

Tim

syphon00

07-13-06, 11:32 AM

very interested in getting this one
would it be possible to use this as an HTPC controller?

G.M.

07-14-06, 07:55 AM

It looks like Costco isn't selling the 720 on their website anymore. :( I smell a recall because of the buttons/lettering.

Tim

Well, I just received a 720 from Costco yesterday (it was shipped from their facility in Lynnwood, WA (nice remote, by the way!).

I think I'll send them email and see if they have been recalled. If I get a response from them, I'll post a response here.

-G

bryanb

07-14-06, 05:29 PM

I've seen Costco pull a hot selling item off the site when they run out of stock.

timify10

07-18-06, 02:49 PM

I just picked a 720 from ebay for $134. I can't find them anywhere in Rochester, ny. I probably would have paid more locally.

I will keep you posted if I have the characters rubbing off. It will be busy with my Samsung 6187.

Tim

G.M.

07-19-06, 08:22 AM

Well, I just received a 720 from Costco yesterday (it was shipped from their facility in Lynnwood, WA (nice remote, by the way!).

I think I'll send them email and see if they have been recalled. If I get a response from them, I'll post a response here.

-G

Costco responded and stated that there was no recall and the remote should now be available on their website.

-G

SnellKrell

07-19-06, 08:28 AM

Costco responded and stated that there was no recall and the remote should now be available on their website.

-G

Not yet!

The Costco Web site is showing Logitech's 890, but no 720.

Gary

G.M.

07-19-06, 12:51 PM

Not yet!

The Costco Web site is showing Logitech's 890, but no 720.

Gary

Yes, you're right, Gary. I was a little to fast on my eye scan on the e-mail reply; it is not in stock.

-George

syphon00

07-23-06, 02:25 PM

so what's the retail price on this?
I don't want to get cheated on ebay

thanks

ronbo1011

07-23-06, 03:55 PM

Retail is 199.00

bowtiextreme

07-26-06, 08:35 AM

I am looking to purchase a 720.. can anyone confirm if I will be able to use it to control some lutron dimmer switches I have that also work by remote? I'd like to have one remote that does all my A/V but also my lighting.

Ladd

07-26-06, 09:29 AM

If your Lutron dimmer switches can be controlled via IR, then the Harmony has the ability to control them.

You'll either find the appropriate IR control codes already in the on-line Harmony programming database or you can learn them from any remote that can already control the dimmers.

NorthJersey

07-27-06, 01:44 PM

the 720 is now available through the walmart site:

http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=5026272

biggbill

07-27-06, 05:36 PM

I posted the following as a separate thread in the forum, but realized I probably should have posted it here--so I'm copying it to this location as well. I'd appreciate any response, to either post!

--Bill

Hi--

A quick question from a newbie here...

I'm considering several of the Harmony line of remotes, as well as the H/K TC30 (which is basically a Harmony). I like the idea of having the TV program listings on the remote's screen. I know that the Harmony 6xx remotes support this (with up to 2 weeks of listings stored at a time), and that the 880 does not.

Does anyone know whether the new 720 supports this? And what about the H/K TC30? I've not been able to find this information elsewhere, so I'm hopeful someone here can help.

FYI, if you're wondering why I don't just use our cable/satellite's program guide, the answer is simple--we don't subscribe to either. So having a feature like this for our OTA viewing would be very helpful.

Thanks for your help!

--Bill

bfdtv

08-02-06, 01:14 AM

G.M.

08-03-06, 10:40 AM

Could someone post a few high-res screenshots of the 720? Logitech still hasn't posted high-res pics of the 720 to their press site.

If anyone has a 720 and a 880, please take a shot of them side-by-side.

Have a look at this thread; it has pics of them all!

http://www.remotecentral.com/cgi-bin/mboard/rc-harmony/thread.cgi?4251

-GeorgeM

bfdtv

08-03-06, 11:13 AM

Better yet, Logitech posted high-resolution pictures of the 720 to their web site last night:

http://assets.logitech.com/logitechpress/index.cfm?template=node&node=1575

Ladd

08-04-06, 12:35 PM

Click to read: CNET Reviews the Harmony 720 (http://reviews.cnet.com/Logitech_Harmony_720/4505-7900_7-31929414-2.html?tag=nav)

Review Conclusion:

"Nitpicks aside, the 720's sleeker design and slighter better color screen left us preferring it to the older Harmony 880, and the $200 list price seems right in line with what you're getting, if not something of a bargain. There's always room for improvement, and we're sure Logitech is already plotting new design tweaks to upcoming models, but the 720 certainly is a fine remote that's another step forward for the Harmony brand."

Ladd

08-04-06, 12:36 PM

Better yet, Logitech posted high-resolution pictures of the 720 to their web site last night:

http://assets.logitech.com/logitechpress/index.cfm?template=node&node=1575

I guess the 720 must now officially exist in the U.S. :)

oops -- spoke too soon. The 720 doesn't appear on the U.S. Logitech site in their listing of Harmony models.

bfdtv

08-04-06, 12:49 PM

oops -- spoke too soon. The 720 doesn't appear on the U.S. Logitech site in their listing of Harmony models.
Harmony has said they aren't promoting the 720 on their main page because distribution is limited to Costco, Target, Sears, etc.

soupdujour

08-06-06, 06:43 PM

To anybody who has used one yet, does this remote have a pretty bright IR emitter or does it have to be pointed directly at the components?

Ladd

08-07-06, 09:14 AM

I rarely point my 720 remote directly at my equipment; usually more ceiling oriented. YMMV.

iJag

08-08-06, 05:43 AM

I've written up a full review of the 720 on my site: here (http://www.ekibitz.com/Reviews/Logitech_Harmony_720_Universal_Remote_Control.php).

I've had it for about 2 months now, and I'm just in awe over how awesome it is. I also had the "letters rub off" issue, but I didn't find it to be that big of a deal. My previous remote didn't even have any letters, just the symbols on the buttons themselves, so it wasn't an issue for me.

I have a Panasonic receiver, and the remote works great with it, but the IR input on the component itself is actually slanted downwards towards the floor (WHY!?!) so I have to actually point the remote at it pretty accurately or else use the "Devices -> Sound -> On" procedure (The "Help" works just as well, but the Receiver is the last thing it asks about, so there's a lot of "Yes" clicking that makes it easier to just turn it on direct).

Overall, the remote has been great and I love it. It's certainly one of the greatest things I've bought for the living room since the TV. :p

P.S: I hope the URL above isn't considered spam, I just don't think posting the whole review here would be the best/easiest course of action. I bought the remote after reading about it in this very thread quite a while ago, and wanted to post up my thoughts on it back here now that I have one. :)

Ladd

08-08-06, 11:41 AM

Re: text rubbing off

I received a replacement remote over a month ago and the text is holding up just fine this time.

Speculation:
As I was one of the first folks in the U.S. to get one of these, perhaps there were issues of some sort with the early batches.

syphon00

08-09-06, 09:59 AM

so nobody know if this remote is MCE compatible?

Ladd

08-09-06, 10:40 AM

Any Harmony remote can control any device if that device can be controlled via IR.

Harmony makes a remote (the 680) that they say is designed for Media Center PCs; it's button layout may or may not strike your fancy.

A very large percentage of the differences between Harmony remotes is simply the number of buttons and their arrangement (screen size or type, and shape of remote make up the rest of the differences).

I purchased a 720 as my needs were for a remote control that had a button layout that was conducive to DVR usage (i.e. the transport controls were located where they were easy to use where my hand naturally holds the remote) and I have found the 720 to be very good for that function.

syphon00

08-09-06, 11:41 AM

thanks Ladd
so you would say aside from design layout, the 720 would be able to interact with a MCE
compatible IR interface on a HTPC?

Ladd

08-09-06, 12:42 PM

so you would say aside from design layout, the 720 would be able to interact with a MCE
compatible IR interface on a HTPC?I can't imagine why any Harmony would not control an MCE if it has IR input.

Additionally, since "Media Center PC" is listed in the online Harmony database as a device that can be added to a remote's programming, I would think you are on pretty safe ground.

You can go to the Harmony database and poke around yourself, if you wish, even before you make a purchase. Click HERE (http://members.harmonyremote.com/EasyZapper/New/Main.asp?WebProcessAction=Start&ClassId=HarmonyProcess%2EProcLogin&RelativePath=ProcLogin%2F&ReturnUrl=%2FEasyZapper%2FUserHome%2Easp&AccountType=Normal&Error=&UserName=&Password=&BrowserType=Mozilla%2F5%2E0%20%28Macintosh%3B%20U%3B%20PPC%2 0Mac%20OS%20X%20Mach%2DO%3B%20en%2DUS%3B%20rv%3A1%2E7%2E13%2 9%20Gecko%2F20060414)

syphon00

08-09-06, 01:40 PM

thanks again man

markyoungsmagic

09-06-06, 11:50 PM

I'd stay away from the Harman Kardon TC30 (very similar to the Harmony 720) I got one with my AVR745 and it crapped out in less than 2 months (and didn't work well when it WAS working).

gogators93

09-07-06, 01:09 AM

I bought the 720 yesterday from Costco and had to return it because the Activities button was dead. I have it setup now and the tilt sensor did not work. I did some searches and found that removing the battery sometimes helps. I removed the battery and the tilt did work after that but only for about an hour. Is this a common problem with these remotes? I hate to take another one back. Does anyone know a definite fix?

bfdtv

09-07-06, 01:13 AM

To fix the tilt problem...

Disable tilt functionality in the Harmony software. The re-enable it.

That should fix it for good. Sometimes you have to do this again every 8-12 weeks.

gogators93

09-07-06, 01:19 AM

To fix the tilt problem...

Disable tilt functionality in the Harmony software. The re-enable it.

That should fix it for good. Sometimes you have to do this again every 8-12 weeks.

I actually tried that first and it did not help. I removed the battery for 10 minutes and that fixed it for about an hour. I just removed the batter again for about 10 seconds and put it back it and it works fine again. Now if I can just get to the user manual to figure out how to change the items for the PVR on the activity button to put other controls there. When I try to open the manual, it just opens a window that sits there forever. I'm sure it will all come together in the end. I think I'm going to enjoy it once I get it set up completely.

Harden

09-08-06, 02:00 PM

gogators93

09-08-06, 08:55 PM

czzer

09-08-06, 11:25 PM

I'm having a few problems. Let's say I program "Watch my DVR". If I need to turn off the DVR, I am forced to hit "Devices", then "DVR" and find the off key.

Problem is if I then want to change the TV volume, I have to hit "Activities", "Watch my DVR" and then hit the volume key.

Is there a way to control the TV volume while in the DVR menu? Thanks.

So you are watching your DVR, then you no longer want to watch your DVR, but want to just watch TV instead?

Don't turn the DVR off using device mode. This is going against the way Harmony's are designed to be used, and will confuse Smart State.

Instead, you should have a "Watch TV" activity set up, which only has the TV device in it.
When you are finished with the DVR, select "Watch TV" and it will turn the DVR off, leave the TV on and give you control of the TV.

Basically, you should set up as many activities as required to cover all the various viewing/listening situations you have, then let the remote look after all the power and input switching duties.

HPW

09-13-06, 04:06 PM

Has anyone had success implementing a Harmony 720 with either a Moxi DVR or Denon AVR-2807? Any pros/cons?

bvader

09-13-06, 07:22 PM

Has anyone had success implementing a Harmony 720 with either a Moxi DVR or Denon AVR-2807? Any pros/cons?
Welll....how bout a realll sorta answer... have Programmed with my Dennon AVR 2105.. works great... and will be programming for a friend a Motorola DVR and now that I am used to the 720... I don't expect any problems... there are a few "tricks" (like a few extra steps, if you want to reorder / add extra soft button etc) but my combo of Panel, Denon AVR and DVR works great with the 720....

A bit of a con for all harmony remotes is setting up a simple macro like changing surround parameters with one touch of the button (e.g. +/- dynamic coompression etc) can't really be done..you kinda have to do work arounds...but doesn;t really bother me... I just have the ability to go into the setting via the soft buttons and make changes or flip over to that "Device" and make the changes...

Hows that for probably a completely useless answer ;)

HPW

09-14-06, 01:24 PM

bvader - not completely useless at all... thanks for the input.

DirtHerder

09-17-06, 08:42 PM

I just got a 720, and have a quick question.

I am running the software setup and it is giving me a choice of different remotes... but the 720 isn't listed.

Any idea what I should do?

Thanks in advance.

Ladd

09-19-06, 10:51 AM

I just got a 720, and have a quick question.

I am running the software setup and it is giving me a choice of different remotes... but the 720 isn't listed.

Any idea what I should do?Select the 880.

DirtHerder

09-19-06, 10:58 AM

Select the 880.

cool thanks

ludeboy12

09-20-06, 03:13 PM

ok so i skimmed through the 880 thread but i cant find where it talks about how to go about setting up the favorite channel icons and what not.

can someone plz point me in the right direction.

thanks

SnellKrell

09-20-06, 03:51 PM

When you set up Activities for your 880, there is a selection to program favorite channels.

On the remote, you push the "Media" button and this brings up the screens that contain your already programmed favorite channels.

Hope this helps.

tneal

09-22-06, 12:33 PM

I just picked this remote up at the local Walmart and it was on clearance. It doesn't look like this Walmart will be carrying them anymore. It's a good deal. Haven't try it out yet, though.

dabl

09-22-06, 03:02 PM

I just picked this remote up at the local Walmart and it was on clearance. It doesn't look like this Walmart will be carrying them anymore. It's a good deal. Haven't try it out yet, though.

What city and state are you in and how much was it?

My local Wal-Mart has the 520 (but not the 550) and definitely not the the 720 or 880....

tvl76

09-22-06, 04:09 PM

tneal

09-22-06, 09:41 PM

What city and state are you in and how much was it?

My local Wal-Mart has the 520 (but not the 550) and definitely not the the 720 or 880....

The Walmart is in Naperville, IL. I paid $159 for it. Dropped from I think $198. I believe I got the last one they had.

kpblade

09-23-06, 12:58 AM

The Wal-Mart in Brea, CA had the 720 marked doen to $127.94.

DirtHerder

09-23-06, 06:47 PM

joesc1

09-24-06, 06:55 PM

The Wal-Mart in Brea, CA had the 720 marked doen to $127.94.

You got a good deal. I just went to my Wal-mart and they had it for $159. I told them that in SoCal they had it for 127, and they said it's not what their showing.

joesc1

09-24-06, 06:58 PM

I ended up returning my 720 to Costco.

The tilt sensor appears to have been defective, as the unit's lighting would never turn off. Also the slideshow would never advance beyond the first image.

I gave Logitech a fair shot at resolving the issue, but lacking any kind of a response, decided to return it.

Interesting thing was, when I went to return it, the man behind the counter commented on how he was receiving many returns of the Logitech - Harmony 720.

I wonder if the quality control on these things is just not all that good.

- DH

I don't think it's a quality thing. I think it just might be too complicated. I spent 5 hours trying to set mine up, and I'm a tech guy. The software setup is nice, but it doesn't set up the system right initially. There's a lot of tweaking needed to get it to work right.

DirtHerder

09-24-06, 08:08 PM

Hrm, well for me it was certainly a quality thing, as I was able to get the actual functionality of the thing to work perfectly... just a shame about the auto shut off and slide show not working (I'm pretty picky about my stuff so if I pay money for something, I expect every aspect of it to function as promised)..

But I'm a gadget head and fairly technical, so I can see how the setup (beyond the simple multiple choice answer the question basic setup) could intimidate some.

- DH

PS: The guy working the Costco returns dept, didn't say that he was getting a lot of returns because people were having a hard time configuring them. He said he was getting a lot of returns because of defects like the one in the unit I returned.

shaneotool

09-24-06, 10:48 PM

kpblade

09-25-06, 01:24 AM

How the heck do you get OTA locals set up as favorites??

I have it set to send "00401" to my Dish 622, which is 4-01 my local NBC HD, but instead it sends "401" Which is some oddball channel I dont get.

Anyone else have this problem? It will not send zeros if the are the first number in the channel.

I know when I was looking at how to program my Pioneer's remote for cable stations, they talked about using the "." (dot/period) to select sub-stations. ie 4-01 is sent as "4.01" This might be the issue with the Dish TV box/remote.

bvader

09-25-06, 02:04 PM

Questions:

1. What appears in the LCD screen after an activity button is pressed?

2. What does the separate "Activities" button, top center, do ?

3. What happens when the "Devices" button is pressed ? Do the activity buttons become component selections?

4. Are any of the other buttons available for custom macros? (other than the activities buttons)

5. I assume the power button on the upper left of the remote, is to turn everything OFF.

Thanks
Terry
1. It depends on what you want. It is completely programable. Typically it will have a mix of the most important functions that don't map directly to a "hard" button on the remote. For instance on my watch DVR mode, I have the DVR A,B,C, List and LIve button along with a view Panel related like Aspect etc..

2 & 3. The Activities and Device button toggle between the Activitiy and Device mode. Activity... controls all devices for that activity but typically does not have every command available for each device... Device mode is like changing to that device's individual remote.

4. You can map any hard or lcd button to whatever you like. Harmony remotes do NOT support macros (i.e. one click will not send multiple commands), there are some tricks so get some of the desired behavior using activities. That is an advanced topic.

5. Yes if you are in the activity mode.

bvader

09-25-06, 02:15 PM

How the heck do you get OTA locals set up as favorites??

I have it set to send "00401" to my Dish 622, which is 4-01 my local NBC HD, but instead it sends "401" Which is some oddball channel I dont get.

Anyone else have this problem? It will not send zeros if the are the first number in the channel.
Under the advanced setup on the DVR Device you can select if you want leading zeros for channel selection....unfortunately looks like it only goes up to 4 digits...etc...401 would be entered as 0401...or maybe the numbers only will work ... take a look...

shaneotool

09-25-06, 10:05 PM

Under the advanced setup on the DVR Device you can select if you want leading zeros for channel selection....unfortunately looks like it only goes up to 4 digits...etc...401 would be entered as 0401...or maybe the numbers only will work ... take a look...

Well I thought this would work for sure - I made the change but it still shows on the screen as 4 being the first number entered. Guess I'll call customer service tomorrow. Seems like a pretty big oversight if it will not work. thanks for the help though.

Macanudo

09-27-06, 12:33 AM

joesc1

09-27-06, 07:01 PM

I purchased a 720 remote in Walmart a couple of days ago (clearance for $100).

Today I downloaded favorite channel icons and noticed that it displays 8 icons but it only has 6 buttons. My configuration recognized the remote as a 720.

I cannot find anywhere how to change the display so only 6 channels display per screen. Any help?

UPDATE:
9/27/06 1:00PM central time
Just talk to Logitech and been informed the problem is a bug. Wait 1-2 weeks, a fix should come out.
macanudo

Wow, I've got to go back to Walmart - and see if they've lowered the price even more. I got it for $159 on Sat. Wonder how I can get that deal. Was it in a clearance section or something?

I'm also noticing the problem others have mention of the letters under the buttons on the remote wearing off. Only been using it a couple of days and the words Replay and Skip are almost worn off. :(

HiHoStevo

09-28-06, 04:45 PM

I checked with about 5 local wal-marts....... only one had the 720 in stock and it was $159 (even though they only had one).

Congrats to those who got a "clearance" deal!

remoteshoppe

09-29-06, 04:01 PM

decent review posted at http://reviews.digitaltrends.com/review4015.html

immiakita

09-29-06, 11:43 PM

Local wal-mart has them on clearance for $90. There were 4 in the clearance basket. I have the 628, but picked up the 720 for that price.

sg99

10-01-06, 12:30 PM

Hi everybody:

I have the following equipment:

Projector: Panasonic AE900
Receiver: JVC 702B
DVD: Oppo
Satellite: Dish DVR.

Does anybody know if all of these will work with the Harmony 720. I saw the Harmony 720 on the Costco website, but after reading the posts here maybe I should check out the local Wal Mart first.

Thanks.

maximum360

10-01-06, 12:33 PM

Local wal-mart has them on clearance for $90. There were 4 in the clearance basket. I have the 628, but picked up the 720 for that price.

Where are you located?

immiakita

10-01-06, 11:42 PM

Where are you located?

Sorry about that. Vacaville CA (San Francisco Bay area).

Dragon Reborn

10-02-06, 08:59 PM

I just returned my Harmony 880 because I didn't like the button lag when controlling my Scientific Atlantic 8300HD PVR. It became very annoying (e.g. while trying to fast forward through commercials) because there would be a ~1 second delay between pressing the play button and having it execute the command.

Does the 720 have this type of lag too?

JohnnytheSkin

10-02-06, 09:08 PM

Also curious if this remote works with the Oppo 970HD and the Onkyo HT-S990THX.

Thanks!

immiakita

10-02-06, 09:38 PM

Also curious if this remote works with the Oppo 970HD and the Onkyo HT-S990THX.

Thanks!

I do not have lag when I FF or Rew on the D*tv DVR. The remote 720 works with the Onkyo 540 receiver. I am pleased with the remote to this point, especially with the Wal-Mart clearance price.

bvader

10-02-06, 10:29 PM

Also curious if this remote works with the Oppo 970HD and the Onkyo HT-S990THX.

Thanks!
I use with Oppo 971... no problems...I think the 970 (not positive but pretty sure) the 970 uses the same code... no reason not to...

yep same....
http://oppodigital.com/dv970hd/dv970hd_faq.html#A4

Quisp

10-03-06, 09:53 PM

Local wal-mart has them on clearance for $90. There were 4 in the clearance basket. I have the 628, but picked up the 720 for that price.

Missed this one...lol...The 720's are gone....

Staszek

10-03-06, 11:17 PM

I bought this remote recently and I love it.

I bought mine on ebay so while I didnt get it as low as the $100 clearance I did get it below the $159.

Anyway I setup the basics for now because I will be changing my Home Theater Reciver and my Direct TV receiver within the next two months so didnt want to go crazy with the secondary programming.

I havent setup my favorites yet but will do that soon and add the icons.

The only thing I dont like is so far I dont think you can change the icons for the activites.

Hope that changes soon because I dont like the standard Icons.

Other then that I like this much better then my old Sony RM3000

joesc1

10-06-06, 09:35 PM

Local wal-mart has them on clearance for $90. There were 4 in the clearance basket. I have the 628, but picked up the 720 for that price.

You sure this was the 720? Just came back from a business trip and went to a wal-mart there. They had the 520 reduced to $90, and the 720 for $159. Which jived with my purchase experience.

canyonblue737

10-07-06, 02:55 AM

I called some Walmarts and all were out but one. That Walmart said they had the *720* for $98 so I went and wouldn't ya know... they were **520's**

Anyone know what the deal is with the 720? Walmart is clearing them out already but their online site still has them, as does Costco. Target's website says they will have them in 2-5 weeks. No one else even says they exist including Logitechs website, and they have been around since June!

Is this being recalled or something or is the 720 just in a slow rollout?

td911

10-07-06, 11:47 PM

Saw them today, for the first time, in my local Costco (Yonkers, NY). $169

Was going to pick one up, but the lines are so damn looooooooooooong.

Will try again early tomorrow.

gadgtman

10-08-06, 04:24 PM

I updated my 720 yesterday for the first time in a couple months and the tilt sensor stopped working. After removing the battery it worked. I updated again and it didn't work.

After talking to Level 2 support, the tech told me that just within the last week a bug was found with this latest software (7.0.2) that causes the tilt sensor to not work and that the temporary fix is to remove/replace the battery. The only thing that gets messed up is the time on the display, but everything else works. She wasn't sure when it would be fixed.

Just figured I'd pass that along to save frustration.

jmj12

10-08-06, 04:33 PM

Saw them today, for the first time, in my local Costco (Yonkers, NY). $169

Was going to pick one up, but the lines are so damn looooooooooooong.

Will try again early tomorrow.

If anyone is interested in this remote in the Chicago area I picked one up at the Costco in Naperville for 169.00 today.

Jim

Mixdoctor

10-09-06, 04:01 AM

Question for you 720 owners. I used to own a 550 but the volume and channel buttons had a click to them every time they were pressed. Do the channel and volume buttons on the 720 have that same click too ?

gadgtman

10-09-06, 07:35 AM

rocko1290

10-09-06, 12:31 PM

Is the Harmony 720 newer than the Harmony 880?

SnellKrell

10-09-06, 01:00 PM

Yes!

rocko1290

10-09-06, 01:15 PM

Yes!Why is the 880 so much more advertised and talked about then?

SnellKrell

10-09-06, 01:17 PM

The 720 is in limited distribution - Walmart, Costco and soon at Target.

It's not even listed on the Logitech/Harmony Web site.

Go figure!

rocko1290

10-09-06, 01:23 PM

The 720 is in limited distribution - Walmart, Costco and soon at Target.

It's not even listed on the Logitech/Harmony Web site.

Go figure!But if I bought the 720 (I plan to) I would still get full access to the Harmony database, right?

Do you know if the 720 will work with Windows Media Center or Windows Vista Media Center?

Also why is the 880 more expensive?

gadgtman

10-09-06, 03:21 PM

The 720 is in limited distribution - Walmart, Costco and soon at Target.

It's not even listed on the Logitech/Harmony Web site.

Go figure!
I had the 880 and got rid of it - the 720 really is a better remote. The bottons aren't all mashed together and it sits much nicer in the hand. You don't have to reach way down like you do on the 880 to hit the lower buttons. Battery lasts between 5-7 days.

Yes, you get access to the exact same database and support, and they are really good (as long as you get to Level 2).

It really is bizarre that the 720 isn't listed on the Logitech website, but who cares, it's a fantastic remote.

gadgtman

10-09-06, 03:23 PM

Also why is the 880 more expensive?
Because it looks cooler and has two more Activity buttons ;)

rocko1290

10-09-06, 04:07 PM

Does anyone know if the 720 will work with Windows Media Center or Windows Vista Media Center?

ronbo1011

10-09-06, 04:10 PM

Does anyone know if the 720 will work with Windows Media Center or Windows Vista Media Center?
Yes it should work .No reason why it shouldn't

lancer1991

10-10-06, 12:41 PM

Local wal-mart has them on clearance for $90. There were 4 in the clearance basket. I have the 628, but picked up the 720 for that price.

I've been to 3 in my area, SC, and they all only had the 520. No signs whatsoever of the 720 in the regular area, nor the clearance area.

immiakita

10-10-06, 02:07 PM

You sure this was the 720? Just came back from a business trip and went to a wal-mart there. They had the 520 reduced to $90, and the 720 for $159. Which jived with my purchase experience.

Yes, it was the 720. I use it every day. The 520 was $60. These were in a shopping basket in front of the store. I double checked my receipt, it was actually $98, instead of the $90 I originally stated.

immiakita

10-10-06, 02:08 PM

lancer1991

10-10-06, 03:51 PM

Wal-Mart manager told me they were no longer going to carry the harmony remote in the B&M store.

That would explain why it only shows Web Only on the website.

good4soup

10-11-06, 01:33 AM

Yes, it was the 720. I use it every day. The 520 was $60. These were in a shopping basket in front of the store. I double checked my receipt, it was actually $98, instead of the $90 I originally stated.

Bought the 720 at the Walmart in The Colony Texas tonight. It was clearanced for $80, reduced down from about $200. It was the only one they had. They also had a bunch of the 520s as well for $98. It was an easy decision.

720GTI

10-11-06, 10:15 AM

I just got this remote last nite. It seems to be working well, except:

1) To get the tilt sensor to work, I have to either jerk the remote very quickly or rotate it so it is vertical (i.e. perpendicular to the floor). Is there any way to adjust the sensitivity so that it the remote lights up without moving it so much?

2) When customizing my favorite channels (& logos) using the computer, it shows 4 pages of 6 channels for a total of 24 favorite channels. However, when I actually use my remote, and I scroll thru the pages of favorites, it shows the 4 pages, but a 5th page shows up, with no channels on it (since I couldn't set it up initially). How can I set up those 6 channels?

gadgtman

10-11-06, 11:43 AM

I just got this remote last nite. It seems to be working well, except:

1) To get the tilt sensor to work, I have to either jerk the remote very quickly or rotate it so it is vertical (i.e. perpendicular to the floor). Is there any way to adjust the sensitivity so that it the remote lights up without moving it so much?

The tilt sensor does not require much movement at all. Try removing/replacing the battery to see if that helps...there is a known bug with the 7.0.2 software that causes the tilt sensor not to work after an update, maybe that's the issue. If that doesn't help, you may have a defective remote.

lancer1991

10-11-06, 01:40 PM

Bought the 720 at the Walmart in The Colony Texas tonight. It was clearanced for $80, reduced down from about $200. It was the only one they had. They also had a bunch of the 520s as well for $98. It was an easy decision.

Was it a Super Walmart or Standard? Did you find it back with the other remotes?

I've gone to a couple different ones and have found whole clearance isles for everything in the store and no luck, I found clearance items in the remote isle with no luck, and I've found a whole electronics clearance section in another with no luck.

Obviously, by my own accord, its hard to say from store to store, as the 3 I visited were all different among themselves.

Can anyone tell me how well the signal strength is? I have a remote that came with my Marantz receiver that is universal, but you must aim it directly at the device and it won't go through anything so if something is in the way you have to hold it over your head. I also have all my components split up on either side of the TV, so I'd like to just aim at the TV and have it all work.

NorthJersey

10-11-06, 02:39 PM

agreed. I've been looking at all the local Walmart's around me in Northern NJ, in both the bargain bins as well as the remote control isles. All I've found is the crappy 520's. Anyone find a 720 in a NJ Walmart ?

maximum360

10-11-06, 02:59 PM

good4soup

10-11-06, 03:06 PM

Was it a Super Walmart or Standard? Did you find it back with the other remotes?

I've gone to a couple different ones and have found whole clearance isles for everything in the store and no luck, I found clearance items in the remote isle with no luck, and I've found a whole electronics clearance section in another with no luck.

Obviously, by my own accord, its hard to say from store to store, as the 3 I visted were all different among themselves.

Can anyone tell me how well the siganal strength is? I have a remote that came with my Marantz receiver that is universal, but you must aim it directly at the device and it won't go through anything so if something is in the way you have to hold it over your head. I also have all my components split up on either side of the TV, so I'd like to just aim at the TV and have it all work.

It was a Super Center Walmart. I found the remote on the endcap facing the HTIB units right next to the 1 hour photo area. The 520s were in a different area where all the other remotes are displayed.

I got very lucky since I just happened to go into the store to kill some time. I asked the guy in the elect dept if they had anymore, but this was the only one. I wanted one for the upstairs too. :cool:

rjcarr316

10-11-06, 03:50 PM

I'm looking to get a harmony and have my eye on 3 remotes:

Harmony 550
Harmony 720
H/K TC-30 (not a harmony but I think made by same OEM)

Here are the compenents I'll be driving:

Sharp LC-37D90U
Sony Upscaling DVD
Sony STR-V333ES
XBOX (original)

So pretty basic stuff. I'm liking the look of the 550 over the 720, but I also dig the 550 color screen. The H/K seems to be a perfect mix of the two (550 looks with 720 color screen) but I haven't heard as much about it.

So ... hoping to get some input. I can get the 720 tonight from costco, but I don't mind waiting a few days for the H/K (comparably priced) or the 520 (quite a bit cheaper). Thanks!

SnellKrell

10-11-06, 04:20 PM

Go with the 720 - it has Logitech/Harmony support teams - The H K does not.

The 550 is fine, but it has batteries that have to be replaced and is not in
the same league as the 720.

rjcarr316

10-11-06, 04:36 PM

SnellKrell

10-11-06, 04:42 PM

I have no idea about warranties - you should check out the difference with the two different parties.

As for support team, depending on your set-up and what you want/and how to be controlled, there can be tricky programming that is best handled or smoothed out by Harmony. I and friends have found their help extremely valuable. I would never think
of going with a different supplier.

720GTI

10-11-06, 10:42 PM

I tried the battery removal "solution"-it only worked the first time I "shook" the remote. After that, it went back to the way it was before. Disabling the tilt sensor and re-enabling it doesn't solve anything either.

I have software version 5.3.2 and firmware version 4.2. I thought the problem witht the til sensor was only for software version 7+. Should I wait for a software update or what?

rocko1290

10-11-06, 11:27 PM

Can the Harmony be programmed like a sleep timer so it will turn off all your components for you after you specify an amount of time?

magillagorilla

10-12-06, 01:24 AM

picked up the 720 today from Costco today to replace my 3 yr old (and failing) 659. Not nuts about button placement and, more importantly, the ability to find the up and down keys by feel. I think I prefer the feel of the larger, more distinct buttons on the 659 type series. 670 looks like it would be perfect except for the fact that it is not rechargeable.

compcons

10-12-06, 11:55 AM

The Walmart in Algonquin, IL has them on clearance for $125.

I bought one and set it up last night. Seems to be a very good remote. I need to cahnge a TV input and then pass it off for wife-approval.

EH

720GTI

10-12-06, 12:12 PM

I looked in the Chicago area but just would up buying it on Ebay for 139+shipping.

How is the tilt sensor working for you?

This is what I'll try tonite(got it off the 880 forums) :
- plug in USB
- remove battery
- turn off the tilt sensor
- update the remote without the battery in.
- turn on tilt sensor
- update remote again
- unplug from USB
- insert battery
- cross your fingers

gadgtman

10-12-06, 12:56 PM

Gary Press: What do you mean by support teams? I guess I'd call myself a fairly advanced user, so I don't need any help setting it up ... surely they have the same warranty?

I just prefer the look of the 550 / TC-30 over the 720 (not digging the square direction pad). So besides support availability, is there anything else I should know about the TC-30?
Believe me, at some point you will be calling support and you want to be dealing with Logitech, not whoever supports the HK.

One thing to note on the 520 - the screen is very dim, tough to read in any light.

gadgtman

10-12-06, 12:57 PM

rjcarr316

10-12-06, 01:01 PM

gadgtman

10-12-06, 01:09 PM

gadgtman: I went against all your better judgement and got the H/K. I know, I know ... I'm sorry, and I deserve any bad luck that should come my way, I just really liked the look of the H/K better, and even C|Net said if they had to choose, they'd probably choose the H/K.

I appreicate and respect the input, but had to make my own decision. We'll see how it turns out.
I almost bought the HK too because it looks better than the 720, no argument there. What made me choose the 720 is my past experience with Logitech Harmony support - they're great. That was the deal breaker for me.

Good luck and let us know how it works out. More importantly, let us know any experience you have with whoever you end up speaking with if/when you call their support line.

Angel L.

10-12-06, 11:52 PM

Guys can the 720 control simple home depot dimmer (lutron)?
Can it do multi zones (bedroom,family room)?

czzer

10-13-06, 02:53 AM

Guys can the 720 control simple home depot dimmer (lutron)?
Can it do multi zones (bedroom,family room)?

If the dimmer is IR, then yes.

It can do multi-zone, but can be a bit awkward if you want to control both zones at the same time. You basically set up 2 sets of activities(eg "Watch TV family" and "Watch TV bedroom" etc) but you can't have both activities running at the same time. You therefore have to be aware of what state the remote and both zones are in so you can keep everything in synch.

Angel L.

10-13-06, 10:08 AM

Thanks czzer.

It looks like a winner for the price and features.
How deos it feel in your hands?

iGrooveLA

10-14-06, 06:53 PM

does the 720 work pretty well w/tivo? i have sd tivo.

GScharoff

10-15-06, 07:01 PM

maximum360

10-15-06, 07:19 PM

gadgtman

10-15-06, 08:36 PM

Just picked up the 720 at Costco and love it...I have 5 remotes stacked on my shelf hopefully going to collect dust...I have had to go back to them once in a while when I realize I need to customize a bit..but the one thing I can't figure out...is there a way to change the order that the custom button labels appear on the LCD display...there are some I use most often and want them on page 1 but they of course appear on page 2...any ideas??

Thanks

Gary
You can customize anything in the display as part of an activity. You CAN'T change whatever appears when you select a particular device.

Select Customize from your Activity, then select Change the behavior of buttons link, then scroll to the bottom portion where it says Custom Button Label. Whatever piece of equipment that's associated with your Activity will be there and you can select whatever you want to appear in the display. The first 6 that you list will appear on page 1, etc.

GScharoff

10-15-06, 08:47 PM

Was the price at Costco the same as their website? If not, can you PM me the price.

I wasn't able to find it at any local Walmarts and Target only had it for MSRP.

The in store price is $10 less than online...cause the online price includes shipping..but not all Costcos carry it...I have 3 within 15 miles of where I live and of course the closest one which I went to first does not carry it... paid $169.99 + tax

GScharoff

10-15-06, 08:54 PM

Thanks I saw that but I have 8 "custom" button labels and I want to be able to select which appear on page 1 I thought it was alphabetical but I changed some to see if I could get them to appear as the first 6 that did not work I tried moving them around in the list and that did not work...unless I need to delete all of them an start all over again???

czzer

10-16-06, 01:20 AM

You can customize anything in the display as part of an activity. You CAN'T change whatever appears when you select a particular device.

You can in fact change the commands displayed in DEVICE mode. Just select Device -> More options -> Customize device commands. (This is using the web interface.)
You can delete/move/add commands as required.

GScharoff: You can change the order LCD commands are displayed as you have found, with the(rather annoying) proviso that commands for a particular device are always grouped together. ie all TV commands in one group, DVD player commands in another group etc.
You can get around this by learning the commands you want listed first to the device that is grouped first. ie If you want DVD player commands listed first, but TV commands are listed first on the LCD, learn the required DVD player commands to your TV device.

Mattardo

10-16-06, 11:18 PM

I purchased my 720 at Walmart today in Sarasota Florida for $8o on clearance. Their normal price sticker said $194. I had bad experience with the earlier one (probably the 520) so I was unsure, but willing to give it a try. The setup is annoyingly vague. Trying to set up Xbox function gets a Media Center PC input prompt, etc. Talked to level 1 tech who was...tolerable, but I had to keep saying "Hello, are you there?" So after hours..it was semi-ready. BUT the middle button to the left of the screen did not work. I was irate. Calling up Support number to inquire about replacement (no wal-marts in area have any more..) got me "Sorry, warranty department is closed after 5..blah blah" so I called Tech and eventually talked to level 2 tech support. He helped me fix some problems that I saw as hopeless and was killing the useablility of the remote. So I will see if my replacement order goes through. The transport keys are annoyingly same-sized and similar. Loading my previous software from the website, I noticed my rating was POOR on the old remote. I have not changed it, yet. I have used many remotes. Setting up macros on those were alot easier and quicker than plugging this into my pc and clicking NEXT 200 times. And don't bother calling wal-marts for info..half the clerks have no idea what a Harmony is and will not check. After several "no, we ain't got no harmonies" I called the Walmart I purchased this one from (because I KNOW there were 3 520s on the shelf) and they swore they had none. Ha! If you wanna save $120 then go ahead and spend the $10 in gas to check.

Mattardo

10-17-06, 07:23 PM

Hmm. Don't spend the $10 in gas. Don't even accept the remote as a gift. If you do, you should treat the giver as if they had just offered to sell you crack and then pimp your daughter out to pay for it. I had almost a full day with it and that was enough. Now, for those of you who like the Harmony Remotes then this remote will be good for you (except for the non-working button). For all others who are used to the array of options given by OneForAll and the URC Automators, you should look elsewhere. Yes, a $17 Oneforall outperforms this remote. Last night when I went to bed, I turned off all my equipment manually. The Harmony "smart" remote was unaware of this and in the morning would not turn on my television, because it had determined that my television was already on. My satellite (which goes into power off after several hours), well, THAT was on too according to my new "smart" remote. After cursing, I hit the help button, and the "smart" remote proceeded to ask me 10 questions before it decided that No, it could not do what I wanted it to. Ah yes, we are in a world of discrete codes for power, but the Harmony will hear nothing of it. It prefers to guess whether it's on or not. That's fine, if I have my equipment under lock and key and NEVER touch it physically. I suppose I could please the Harmony by inseting a disk into my DVD player and then powering it down before using the remote to power it on, but I guess I feel that's silly. It would think the Dvd players off when I put the disk in, and then turn it off while trying to turn it on. Ah, that's what discrete codes are for. My level 1 tech flatout told me that it was impossible. The level 2 tech helped me, but the discrete codes for on were at the end of the command sequence. Oops, the change inputs for the tv are near the beginning. Oh well, after an hour of adding more commands, I now have an unwieldy command that takes 10 seconds to perform. And can they put the discretes at the end, or God forbid, use THEM instead of guessing? Nope. The software for this is atrocious. I gave them a chance with this new model, hoping for improvement, but I was wrong. I liked the screen and the tilt sensor. And the recharging ability. But seriously, when the techs tell you "this is a syncing remote, and why would you EVER want to touch your equipment? Macros? Ha! Macros...", and there are $20 remotes that do that, what's the point? I'm very sad. Forgive me if I'm venting, but I spent many hours getting this to NOT work. If you like the way Harmony Remotes work, buy it. If you're used to remotes doing what you tell it to do no matter how silly the request, then don't buy it. Mine went back today. I cancelled the warranty service, who called me AFTER i had called them and cancelled it.

Mattardo

10-17-06, 07:25 PM

Correction: I typed wrong. They CAN put the discretes at the end. I meant to say They cannot put them at the beginning. I don't want to be accused of lying. Heh.

Ladd

10-17-06, 08:09 PM

Last night when I went to bed, I turned off all my equipment manually.Well, there is your problem. You didn't use the tool properly. If you had used the remote to turn off all your devices, there would not have been an issue.

It is certainly your choice if you wish to use the tool properly or not, but if your lifestyle requires the freedom to turn off your devices manually in addition to simply pushing a single button on your remote, then you are correct that any Harmony remote is not the remote for you.

Complaining about the tool not working properly is like saying that you purchased Phillips-head screws and you are pissed that your standard slot-type screw driver doesn't work and damn those people for inventing a tool that doesn't meet your needs.

But I can see how simply offering an analysis of how the remote doesn't work for you (which might possibly be a point of interest for other folks who may be considering a Harmony purchase) might have been less satisfying than a rant.

Mattardo

10-17-06, 09:41 PM

Yes, I probably shouldn't rant and rave, you are correct. It's just very disheartening to become excited about something, spend time acquring it, setting it up only to find that it is less feature-laden than lesser-priced remotes. I like remotes. My girlfriend swears I have a "remote fetish" and she always catches me eyeing them whenever we are out and about. I have owned many remotes from many different manufacturers, so I feel I am a tad qualified to coment on them. Maybe not rant on them, but that's just my love of new technology being spited. As you say, if I expect a "tool" costing $200 to perform worthy of it's price, and this particular "tool" is a Harmony remote, then I am expecting too much of it. The good part of all this is that when I told Harmony I was returning their remote, they asked me why and listened. They then asked me for suggestions to forward to their engineering department. Will this accomplish anything? I do not know. If they can add simple features that lesser-priced remotes offer, then I will use their product. Granted, the price I paid was not the full $200, but it didn't even perform to the discounted price. And again, I wonder what they expect someone to do if they need to insert a cd or a dvd. Powering on the player manually and inserting the disc runs contrary to "using the tool the right way". That is one of the simplest and most basic functions of an entertainment center, yet it baffles this remote. Does that make me insane to complain about that? Nope. If enough people do it, it brings about change and improves the product eventually. Surely improvement is good? Of course, if everyone has your mentality and says "you are using the tool improperly", well then it will never improve. Of course I'm using it improperly: I want to use it as a $200 remote that simplifies my home theater. Good lord.

gadgtman

10-17-06, 09:46 PM

Well, there is your problem. You didn't use the tool properly. If you had used the remote to turn off all your devices, there would not have been an issue.

It is certainly your choice if you wish to use the tool properly or not, but if your lifestyle requires the freedom to turn off your devices manually in addition to simply pushing a single button on your remote, then you are correct that any Harmony remote is not the remote for you.

Complaining about the tool not working properly is like saying that you purchased Phillips-head screws and you are pissed that your standard slot-type screw driver doesn't work and damn those people for inventing a tool that doesn't meet your needs.

But I can see how simply offering an analysis of how the remote doesn't work for you (which might possibly be a point of interest for other folks who may be considering a Harmony purchase) might have been less satisfying than a rant.
Agreed - sounds like he has no idea how to use the 720 nor understands the concept of activity based remotes. I just re-programmed my 720 to add some codes to the display and it took me all of 10 minutes. That's because I understand how to use the tool as designed.

I've had lots of simple remotes and the 720 blows away any of those URC's. My kids (7, 9, 11) all know to push the off button to turn everything off. They have yet to say "Daddy, what's wrong with the remote?"

Mattardo

10-17-06, 09:57 PM

I understand perfectly the concept...NOW. It's primarily for children and older folks who can't asssign macros without the help of a web page. It takes me all of 30 seconds to program most other remotes to do extra functions. My girlfriend (who is not 7 or 9) told me this morning "this was a lot easier when I didn't have to hit a Help button 10 times". I understand you're obviously Harmony fans. Great. But don't tell me I don't understand it. It's perfectly understood what it is after having used it for a day. It thinks it knows whether your devices are on. Well, with discrete power codes, it doesn't have to "think". I have tried it, am not pleased with it and voiced my opinion. Nothing wrong with that.

Ladd

10-17-06, 10:33 PM

I wonder what they expect someone to do if they need to insert a cd or a dvd. Powering on the player manually and inserting the disc runs contrary to "using the tool the right way".I now see one reason why you are frustrated -- it appears that something in your setup is not working properly.

For my Activity "Watch DVD", the Harmony changes the TV to the appropriate input to receive the DVD video signal, switches the AV receiver to the appropriate input to play the 5.1 audio from the DVD player, powers up the DVD player and opens the tray so that all I have to do is drop the disc in.

I can then either close the tray manually or via an LCD button on the remote or by simply pushing "play" on the remote.

We would need more input from you as to what is or isn't happening (and when) for your "Watch DVD" activity to try and determine why this functionality isn't working for you.

czzer

10-17-06, 10:56 PM

The Harmony will use discretes if they are available. If they are not available, it will attempt to keep track of power and input states. No other "lesser priced remote" will do this. If you don't have discretes for your devices and you manually power things on or off, it will fool ANY macro using remote. The Harmony is one of the cleverest remotes available for the price, but even so, it can't read your mind! To say it is less feature laden than cheaper remotes is just plain wrong.

rocko1290

10-17-06, 11:41 PM

Can the Harmony remote be programmed so that it will turn off the desired components after a certain amount of time?

For example, can you program it to turn off all your "play a game" components after 120 minutes?

iGrooveLA

10-18-06, 02:32 AM

sorry guys...new to universal remotes...but what "discrete codes"? i hear this a lot but i don't know what it means! my 720 from costco should be coming any day now.

czzer

10-18-06, 04:02 AM

sorry guys...new to universal remotes...but what "discrete codes"? i hear this a lot but i don't know what it means! my 720 from costco should be coming any day now.

A discete code is an IR command that performs one specific function, and only that function.

The most common discretes required are for Power and input selection.
eg most standard remotes will have one button which turns the device both ON and OFF(ie it toggles the power), where ideally for a macro you would want a command for ON, and a different command for OFF.

A lot of devices have discretes available even if they are not on the factory remote. The Harmony will use discretes if they exist, but if they don't exist it uses "Smart State" to keep track of power and input states of your devices, so it won't turn off a device that's meant to be on by issuing a "Power toggle" command. They are the only universal remotes that can do this(apart from some other expensive options that use "variables", however variables are much more difficult to program with).

Mattardo

10-18-06, 07:27 AM

Alright, yes, the Harmony will use discrete codes, but let me be more clear: according to 4 different techs, the discretes will NOT be used in the beginning of the command sequence. It will try to guess and THEN use discretes at the end of the command sequence. This is the effect it had on me. If you think about this, it will make sense. 1)Go through wizard and add activity, choose inputs on tv and av receiver and what device to turn on. 2)Add discrete power on for tv at the end of each Start Activity. Sounds good, right? Even if I manually turned off my tv, it should turn it on. But one more step is needed: 3)Add Input select on tv AFTER the discrete power on. But this makes no sense, because I already used the wizard to add the tv inputs initially. So the command sequence is now something akin to a)make sure tv is on, b)make sure tv is set to right input, 3)make sure av receiver is on, 4)make sure AV Receiver is set to correct input, 5)make sure Switcher is on, 6)make sure Switcher is set to correct input, 7)turn on device, 8)send discrete POWER ON code to tv, 9)send INPUT select to Tv. That's 9 steps totalling to about 10 seconds of pointing the remote. THIS is where discretes and their placement come in. Instead of a)make sure tv is on - it should send the discrete power on for tv. No guessing. b)make sure tv is on right input - good. So far I've eliminated the last 2 steps. c)make sure receiver is on and d)is on correct input - could be reduced to the Input Select discrete code being sent, for a savings of 1 step. The same applies for (5) and (6), one discrete code can do it. and (7) make sure device is on...again a discrete code. (8) and (9) are not needed, as it should already have taken care of that. If this remote used discrete codes LIKE IT SHOULD (I know several people above keep saying, Yes they use discretes...but they don't use them properly), then this 9 step 10 process would be a mere 5 step process taking a few seconds. So that's it: the placement of commands that can be manually added are not able to be chosen. It's at the end of the command sequence or nowhere. I've tried to make this as clear as possible. Options should be available.

Mattardo

10-18-06, 07:34 AM

Ladd, thanks for the reply. " We would need more input from you as to what is or isn't happening (and when) for your "Watch DVD" activity to try and determine why this functionality isn't working for you" . My dvd activity works fine as long as I don't walk up to it and put a dvd in. I have to keep the same dvd in forever, because if I walk up and insert a dvd, then the Harmony still thinks my Dvd player is off. Right? Then I select Watch Dvd and it applies the power toggle command to the player, which it thinks is off. Now the player has turned off (thanks to the power toggle command), and the Harmony thinks it's on. Then I must use Help. All this, because I inserted a dvd. Now, if the Harmony sent a Power On discrete when I selected Watch Dvd, it wouldn't matter if it was on or off: it would turn on. Discrete commands integrated into the primary part of the command sequence would make this remote be even "smarter".

Mattardo

10-18-06, 07:35 AM

Rocko, no the Harmony will not do the Sleep function that a $20 Onforeall or Radio Shack remote will do.

Mattardo

10-18-06, 07:37 AM

CZZER, that's the glory of discretes. The remote doesn't have to keep track of power states, it's not needed. I can program all my current remotes to "keep track of power states" using discretes. What does the Harmony do anyways with it's info? It applies toggle power commands. That's akin to a computer knowing how to print a document on a printer and then using a pencil on paper that might or might ot be there. Just use the damn printer, it'll work.

czzer

10-18-06, 08:59 AM

Sorry Mattardo, you've got it all wrong.

When you set up a device, you can tell it to use discretes(if available), OR toggles. If you set it up with discretes, it will use discretes just like any other universal remote.

It sounds like you added extra steps to the activity start sequence to send discretes after everything else is set up. This is absolutely not required. All you had to do was go to "Power options" for the device in question, then select "This device has a command for ON, and a seperate command for OFF". You then select the appropriate commands for ON and OFF, and the remote will use them whenever you select an activity.

The sequence when starting an activity is to send all power commands first(assuming those commands are setup in the "Adjust power settings"), whether they are discretes or toggles. Next, Power On Delays are invoked, followed by setting of inputs(once again, using discretes if available and setup, or toggles if discretes aren't setup). After this is done, the extra activity start commands are sent(this is where it sounds like you put your discretes, instead of the correct Power or Input setups).

I understand you might have been misinformed by tech support(which is unusual...they are usually very good), but the fact is the remote WILL use discretes if available just like any other universal remote...WITHOUT any extra steps. It is possible they didn't understand exactly what you were trying to do.

As for "CZZER, that's the glory of discretes. The remote doesn't have to keep track of power states, it's not needed. I can program all my current remotes to "keep track of power states" using discretes. What does the Harmony do anyways with it's info? It applies toggle power commands."

I know all about the glory of discretes. I use them wherever possible. However, some of my devices(like many on the market) don't have discretes available. In this case, the glory of Smart State means the remote keeps track of power and input states, which most certainly IS needed. You might be able to program a regular universal to do something similar, but it will be a hell of a lot harder than with a Harmony, if not impossible. And once again, it does not apply toggle commands if discretes have been setup properly.

This isn't meant to be a dig at you Mattardo...I understand you were lead astray by tech support(which is a shame...I think you would have been impressed if you had persisited). I'm just trying to clear things up for other potential purchasers...this remote is a lot smarter than a $20 OFA(apart from the sleep timer :))

Ladd

10-18-06, 10:07 AM

My dvd activity works fine as long as I don't walk up to it and put a dvd in. I have to keep the same dvd in forever, because if I walk up and insert a dvd, then the Harmony still thinks my Dvd player is off. Right? Then I select Watch Dvd and it applies the power toggle command to the player, which it thinks is off.Yes, I can see how this order of events would be an issue for the Harmony if your DVD player did not have discreet ON/OFF codes.

However, is pressing the "Watch DVD" activity button BEFORE you put the DVD in the tray that much of an issue?

I realize that we all have our "hot button" issues and I grant you the right to have this one be one of yours, but in return you'll have to allow that the "solution" will appear to be easy to many other folks.

Kinda like picking one's battles with one's lovely bride. One learns early on that always putting the toilet seat down just isn't that hard to do and doing so comes with the reward of an overall improvement of the quality of life. :)

Mattardo

10-18-06, 12:29 PM

You both make valid points. But according to tech support (2 out of 4 understood me), the applying of a discrete code at the beginning of the sequence (by telling the setup wizard that it uses 2 separate power buttons) is overriden by the Smart Aspect of the command sequence. I was told that even if the device has a discrete code, the remote will NOT send it as part of the inital sequence: because it thinks it's on or off, so the application of the discrete is unecesarry. That is exactly what they told me. The techs are the ones who added the discrete codes (which were already programmed in from the wizard, by the way) AT THE END of the sequence. They knew what I wanted. But they chose to do it that way, because according to them, the remote does NOT use discretes at the beginning. It guesses. I spent HOURS on the phone with them determining this, and these were level 2 techs. The last tech was so condescending, he would whine at me "Matt, Matt. This remote is activity-based and just doesn't work that way." Okay, I get it. It can't do it, and I think you're mistaken in thinking that simply because a setup wizard asks me about the power buttons, that it will use them when switching activities. Try it, if you own something that has a discrete code (which is virtually anything nowadays that isn't Fisher Price based), and it is applied in the Wizard, try powering on your devices with the remote, turn them off manually and then use the remote to switch among them. It will not work correctly. I know, because I went through it for hours. The smart state overrides the wizard settings, because the wizard settings have no impact on it.

Mattardo

10-18-06, 12:43 PM

And yes, there are cheaper remotes that work better than this remote. A Oneforall remote is much more effective than a Harmony. I can set up a Oneforall remote to "keep track of power states" with discrete codes in less time than it takes to navigate a Wizard which makes me repeat steps. There have been at least one or two posters on this forum that have commented on the horrible design of the setup software. It takes me less than 5 minutes to apply macros for 7 devices. That's fast compared to the Harmony. The Home Automator URC remotes are another example. They take even less time than a Oneforall, but they cost more. I can set them up to "keep track of power states" and it takes less time, and no help button is needed. They are not perfect , but the only thing that separates this Harmony 720 from them is : the Harmony has an attractive color screen with nice button labels :) , the tilt function to enable lighting works extremely well :) , it has a recharging station :) , and the transport buttons are annoyingly similar sized and small :mad: . See, I'm not all jeers for it. Those 3 things attracted me. I figured it would ALSO mimic the great reliablity of those remotes. It does not. Look, I'm not out to make people angry. Yeh, I was a little incensed at first, and spoke out of anger, but there remains at the core a product that doesn't live up to it's price, unless you're older and can't program macros or your'e a small child. My girlfriend, who knows NOTHING of technology, understands the HELP button , but refused to use it out of the principle. She then went and got the URC remote and used it. She hit one button and everything worked. And yes, I put the toilet seat down for her, but she didn't cost $200 and wasn't hyped as being a great remote. Do I even have to bring up the broken button or the rubbed off letters people are experiencing? Or the tilt sensor having to be "reset"? It sounds like me with certain things. I want them to work. I want them to be awesome. They are not. So I make excuses for the product and jump through hoops and keep telling myself "It's worth it..it cost a lot of money..it must be worth it..." It took me a day to get over this. I will say it again: if you ALREADY have a Harmony and like it, then buy it. If you don't currently own a Harmony and are used to remotes working well, then don't buy it.

Automatonjohn

10-18-06, 01:54 PM

Just got the last 720 at the local Walmart (had to pay $159, unfortunately), set it up in a matter of minutes, and I'm completely thrilled with it. I've had zero issues so far. This is the first "fancy" universal remote I've used (I had been using the Denon 3805 remote until now) and I've found everything to be extremely user friendly and intuitive. I just finished setting up favorite channels complete with icons. When my wife sees this she is going to be impressed to say the least...

I do however have one question: Is there a way to get it to automatically bring up the favorite channels when I enter the "watch T.V." activity?

Thanks in advance.

czzer

10-18-06, 08:06 PM

Okay, I get it. It can't do it, and I think you're mistaken in thinking that simply because a setup wizard asks me about the power buttons, that it will use them when switching activities. Try it, if you own something that has a discrete code (which is virtually anything nowadays that isn't Fisher Price based), and it is applied in the Wizard, try powering on your devices with the remote, turn them off manually and then use the remote to switch among them. It will not work correctly. I know, because I went through it for hours. The smart state overrides the wizard settings, because the wizard settings have no impact on it.

We'll have to agree to disagree on this. In my case, the remote most definately does re-send discretes even when switching activities involving a device that it thinks is already on.

I have tried a URC MX-850, and I absolutely hated it. Programming was a pain, and there was no way to get it to work with my displays. I have 2 displays(CRT and projector) and neither of them have discretes for input or power. There was no way I could find to get an MX850 to work as an activity based remote with a display that doesn't have discretes for inputs. I then bought a Harmony and had it working perfectly with it in about 5 minutes.

Mattardo

10-18-06, 08:33 PM

Okay, I'll take your word that your remote sends discretes when switching (though not for your tv and projector, I assume). Mine does not. Well, DID not, as it is now Walmart's property once again. I can see how not having discretes would hamper a URC from working for you. In the rare case that my URCs do not have an inbuilt discrete code, I simply add the discrete to a remote that takes direct input advanced codes and then learn it. I have all my discretes, so it's not an issue. So we will agree to disagree. Gee, if I had known there were so many Harmony fanatics out there, I would have SOLD one of you my remote instead of returning it. Heh.

gadgtman

10-18-06, 09:12 PM

We'll have to agree to disagree on this. In my case, the remote most definately does re-send discretes even when switching activities involving a device that it thinks is already on.

I have tried a URC MX-850, and I absolutely hated it. Programming was a pain, and there was no way to get it to work with my displays. I have 2 displays(CRT and projector) and neither of them have discretes for input or power. There was no way I could find to get an MX850 to work as an activity based remote with a display that doesn't have discretes for inputs. I then bought a Harmony and had it working perfectly with it in about 5 minutes.
I'm with you...my 720 sends discreet codes flawlessly every time. I push an activity button, everything fires up properly. My 720 display is set up with discreet codes for things like changing between 16:9 and 4:3, antenna/HDMI/component, all my DVR functions (OnDemand, Swap, MyDVR, etc.). ...works EVERY time. When it's time for bed, the off button does it's thing; when it's time to watch, the remote knows the state of all my components and turns them on. No guessing as long as the remote is used properly.

Programming is ridiculously easy (a little time consuming waiting for the Web to do its thing, but who cares).

Automatonjohn

10-19-06, 10:15 AM

Mattardo

10-19-06, 11:07 AM

Try taking the battery out and then waiting 10 minutes. Then reinsert the battery. Then try choosing another setup code for the 360 and making an activity. This should take 20 minutes. Then make sure the 360 is in a state that the remote can recognize. Then hit the help button 20 times until you're satisfied. Oh, I forgot, spend 5 minutes updating the changes to your remote. Then call tech support. After 30 minutes with level 1, you should be transferred to level 2 with a wait of 15 minutes, sometimes more. Then wait for them to change options in your setup. Then rehook your remote back up and update it again. 5 minutes. It's helpful to find something to do while waiting (I play half a sonata and it's usually ready). Then test. Don't forget to go back to your computer and tell the wizard you're satisfied. Mostly.

Mattardo

10-19-06, 11:09 AM

I'm sorry, I'm kidding. Okay, I'm done grousing. Lol.

czzer

10-19-06, 07:19 PM

I am having issues with the Xbox360 and the 720. Especially turning it off. It rarely works on the first try, and even when I enter 'Help' mode it takes multiple attempts to turn off. I have also had problems controlling the 360 in 'Device' mode. I have tried experimenting with the delays. Any thoughts?

You could try re-learning the power commands in RAW mode.

Or, try increasing the number of repeats(under Troubleshooting - This device doesn't respond to some commands)

PDACPA

10-24-06, 03:22 PM

I was looking to pick up two Harmony remotes (880 and 720). The Wal-mart and Target and Staples in Tampa only have the 550. No 720's.

So the guy in Sarasota who got the 720 for $80 got lucky!

maximum360

10-24-06, 03:28 PM

I was looking to pick up two Harmony remotes (880 and 720). The Wal-mart and Target and Staples in Tampa only have the 550. No 720's.

So the guy in Sarasota who got the 720 for $80 got lucky!

Pretty much. The two negatives so far are the clicky buttons and that the paint is already going faint on text below one of the buttons. Not such an issue but a nitpick, the Activities button can be almost blinding if you're watching something in the dark.

Does the clicking ever get any better (as in do the buttons lossen up somewhat and get rid of the annoying clicking sound somewhat).

I got mine from Costco so I still have the option to exchange and get a refund.

Mattardo

10-24-06, 05:34 PM

PDACPA, I didn't get lucky. I had to spend extra gas money to return it. If I had known you wanted it, I would have sold it to you for $80 plus shipping. :D

dominus_l

10-24-06, 08:32 PM

iGrooveLA

10-25-06, 03:51 AM

Mattardo

10-25-06, 07:46 AM

gadgtman

10-25-06, 08:53 AM

it is a little clicky...i wonder if the 880 or 890 are clicky as well...anybody know? more expensive tho...

i've noticed that sometimes mine misfires quite frequently...if i can say that...that is i select watch TV (ota) and it puts it on the wrong video input and i have to keep correcting it...it asks if the TV is on and if the tv is set to tuner but doesn't ask about the input (it stops on input 8 for me whch is PC on a sony 46V25L1 is that normal? i thought that once you correct it, it's corrected but frequently it doen't select the correct video input.
I had a very similar problem and after talking to Logitech support, they told me to adjust the Power On Delay for my TV (it was too short). I lengthened that by 5 seconds, now it works flawlessly every time.

What is your Power On Delay set to?

EDIT: The best advice I can give you is to realize that Mattardo doesn't like these remotes and tends to post incorret information about them. When all else fails, call Logitech support....and if the Level 1 techs can't help, ask for Level 2 - they're great.

gadgtman

10-25-06, 08:55 AM

That's what this remote does. It IS normal. It guesses the state of your devices and is frequently wrong. The help button is a Harmony Owner's best friend. If the remote performed flawlessly (and for the price, it should) there would be no need for a help button to fix it. No other remotes that I have used, have a dedicated help button; they don't need one. But some people don't mind it. I'm happy with URC>
Mattardo - you are wrong. His problem most likely had to do with the Power On Delay. I'm sure after he talks to support he'll get it fixed, just like I did.

These remotes work - as long as you understand the concept and set them up properly. Stop the BS - PLEASE!

Mattardo

10-25-06, 09:42 AM

I'm not posting BS. If it was BS, there wouldn't be a HELP button, now would there? Reread my post.

gadgtman

10-25-06, 10:14 AM

I'm not posting BS. If it was BS, there wouldn't be a HELP button, now would there? Reread my post.
I'm not disputing the value of the Help button - it's a great feature of the Harmony remote.

My issue with your posts is that you say the Harmony guesses wrong frequently, and that's just not true with a properly tuned Harmony. When correctly set up, you pretty much never have to use the Help button. Me, my wife and 3 kids have been using the 720 for almost 4 months and it has worked exactly as designed every time - we've never had to use the Help button and that's no exageration. That's because I worked at all the settings - not just imputs, but delays and everything else. It's all a matter of setting up the remote properly.

In the spirit of not getting nasty, you're posts are very misleading when it comes to Harmony remotes.

Mattardo

10-25-06, 11:59 AM

gadgtman

10-25-06, 12:21 PM

I don't think my posts are THAT misleading. You say that you had to "fine-tune" it and you had to "work at it". Granted, if you have hours to get every delay exactly right, then that's how you got it to work. It's not very smart if you have to sweat over it. There's a reason these remotes aren't considered "high-end", though their prices seem to point at "high-end". If this was a $30 remote, I wouldn't complain. Not one bit. But when there's similarily priced and cheaper remotes that perform much better without hours of setup and help buttons, that's when I have to give my honest opinion. I like Logitech. I have many of their products, which is why every couple reiterations of this remote, I try the new models in hopes they have improved. IT's not perfect, yet. Sorry. I tell it like I see it. One only needs to read the whole topic to see that : broken buttons, rubbed off print, cumbersome software, difficulty in setting it up, bad tech support, etc. I'm not the only one who listed these complaints! Is it any wonder why it's being offloaded in stores so cheap? I know you like it, but be realistic: it could be much better.
I never said I spent hours - in fact, I've put maybe a total of 3 or 4 hours into this thing, and that's only because I periodically add funtionality or change things as I desire. No different than any other remote like this. Your URC won't work corretly if you don't set it up right.

My issue - again - is that you falsely claim that the Harmony guesses wrong too often. That is blatantly not true if configured properly and I hope others reading will understand that.

One other point that proves your bias - you're way off base about the bad support claim. Read any review online and that's one of Harmony's biggest strengths. I've called them maybe 3 times and EVERY time, they've been right on the money with how to diagnose and assist.

Good luck with the URC, please try to provide factual data in the future.

SnellKrell

10-25-06, 12:30 PM

I, too, have nothing but high regard and appreciation for the products and the support people at Harmony. The support team has been extremely professional and patient.

I have an 880; I also set up an 880, 720, 550 and a 520 for friends and relatives - it was easy and when some special help was needed, Harmony's support team were there!

Couldn't be more pleased!

iGrooveLA

10-25-06, 12:51 PM

SnellKrell

10-25-06, 12:57 PM

I really don't understand what is meant by "clicky"?

I haven't dealt with the 890.

Mattardo

10-25-06, 01:30 PM

When you use the arrow keys around the select button, they click when you press them: for the visually impaired. Is that unbiased enough for everyone? Or am I offending our blind members? The response, therefore, is slower when navigating, due to the click nature.

gadgtman

10-25-06, 01:31 PM

gadgtman

10-25-06, 01:33 PM

:rolleyes: When you use the arrow keys around the select button, they click when you press them: for the visually impaired. Is that unbiased enough for everyone? Or am I offending our blind members? The response, therefore, is slower when navigating, due to the click nature.
Slower when navigating? Hmmmmm....nope.....I won't take the bait.

maximum360

10-25-06, 01:40 PM

are the buttons "clicky" on the 880/890?

Hmmmm...

I think there are clicky on the 880 to some degree as well but it isn't as noticeable as on the 720. I'll try to compare them both when I get him tonight. I agree that it does take slightly longer to navigate using the direction pad though. That's my take anyway.

Mattardo

10-25-06, 01:49 PM

Thank you, Max. Gadgetman immediately assumes that everything I say is a lie. But being a Harmony agent, he would. :D I kid, I kid.

gadgtman

10-25-06, 02:55 PM

Thank you, Max. Gadgetman immediately assumes that everything I say is a lie. But being a Harmony agent, he would. :D I kid, I kid.
Sticking to my previous post, I won't take the bait.

Ouindo

10-25-06, 09:10 PM

Thank you, Max. Gadgetman immediately assumes that everything I say is a lie. But being a Harmony agent, he would. :D I kid, I kid.

Dude, I've had this remote for several months and have experienced excellent performance. It did take a while to set up. but, once done, properly, it has no flaws. I didn't even know that it had a "help" button because I have never needed it. BTW, this unit controls 5 systems...absolutely no issues! :D

051473

10-25-06, 09:14 PM

Just picked up a 720 from Costco. It is still in the box. I have read where a couple people have complained about the printed text under buttons rubbing off quickly. Like dominus_1, my 720 has no printing under any buttons. Maybe too many complaints about it rubbing off so Logitech stopped the printing all together.

Anyway, cant wait to set it up and eliminate the 3 remotes I now have.

gadgtman

10-25-06, 09:22 PM

Dude, I've had this remote for several months and have experienced excellent performance. It did take a while to set up. but, once done, properly, it has no flaws. I didn't even know that it had a "help" button because I have never needed it. BTW, this unit controls 5 systems...absolutely no issues! :D
Agreed - the remote is great when set up right. That other guy has issues, it's pointless to have a dialogue with him.

Mattardo

10-25-06, 09:43 PM

Yes and after every person says "my remote works great" , it's always followed by "when I spent the time to set it up" or "after 3-4 hours of setup". Sheesh. It's pointless because you're not objective. I listed things I like about the remote, and also things I don't like. You only speak of the things you do like. "Didn't know there was a help button?" Ok, I think nobody believes THAT. Even you, Gadgetman Prophet of Harmony. No comment on the rubbed off button text? Or is that me "not understanding how it works" and "not setting it up right?" Can that text be fixed with proper setup? lol . How about my broken button? Ah well, it IS pointless, you are right. I'm not interested in changing anyone's minds who already own it, I suppose. Ignorance is bliss. :p

SnellKrell

10-25-06, 09:46 PM

You must be filled with bliss!

Enough of this!

Please!

Mattardo

10-25-06, 09:57 PM

If I remember correctly, you're the only person who has said "please". Therefore, I will stop. Thanks.

gadgtman

10-26-06, 07:41 AM

You must be filled with bliss!

Enough of this!

Please!
I tried that once....but he kept coming back :rolleyes:

Let's hope he keeps his promise....

Mattardo

10-26-06, 03:10 PM

My ears are burning. Someone's talking about me.... Well, while I'm here I might as well state my feelings on the Harmony remote 720. I think it's awesome! :D

CoastGuardZ

10-27-06, 12:05 AM

Hi all,

Recently purchased the 720, happy so far. $145... not too bad though certainly not the deal that many have gotten, but I'm also highly impatient and live in the middle of nowhere so I take what I can when I can.

Holy crap has this thing simplified my interface with my gear. Makes the wife happy too, BONUS! :D It is also quite the looker too. The rectangular shape and black and silver scheme were big plus's when making my decision.

My only issue is the lag or speed of the transmit. Really this only bothers me when controlling my reciever, Yamaha HTR-5450. The reviever can react much faster than the remote will command it and even this is really only an issue (so far) with the volume. The 720 just falt out sends the command too long. We'll say the 720 send the command for 300ms where the Receiver reacts in 100ms incriments, therefore one tap of volume + is like 3 volume +'s worth of input making it nearly impossible to get the right amount of volume.

Is there anyway to change this in the remote? Heck you can change damn near everything else.

Thanks

czzer

10-27-06, 03:23 AM

Mattardo

10-27-06, 06:04 AM

:D Remember, a Harmony will work GREAT if properly set up! Don't get discouraged, just keep trying! You'll get it eventually. Your Official Harmony Tip of The DAY!

CoastGuardZ

10-27-06, 07:05 AM

CZZER-

Thanks for the info... I will try the web-based setup tonight. It sounds like this is what I am looking for.

Retardo... ermm... Mattardo... whatever-

As an outsider looking in - and now as a new member, I have just one question -
Why do you bother to keep posting in this thread? You're last 20 some odd responses were typically negative, sarcastic, non-helpful and seem to only serve the purpose of rasing your number of posts. I read this entire thread to help my purchasing decision. Personally, I chose to ignore your ramblings because after the first one I could see you represented the minority of Harmony owners.

Thanks-

gadgtman

10-27-06, 09:50 AM

Retardo... ermm... Mattardo... whatever-

:D

iGrooveLA

10-27-06, 12:57 PM

guys i'm having reliability issues w/the 720...i like it but it keeps getting the inputs wrong...i think that's the major problem...for example, i watching cable and i hit watch TV (just regular OTA) and it stops on input 8 which is PC...i go to help and it asks me the questions, etc., corrects it but it doesn't seem to stick! am i doing something wrong? is there an adjustment i need to do? someone mentioned adjusting the power delay or something but the tv is usually already on and i'm watching an activity and when i switch to something else, that's where the snag happens....oh, i programmed it via the web and i'm on a mac and my tv is the sony 46v25l1 (or v2500). any help is apprecaited.

thanks.

gadgtman

10-27-06, 01:43 PM

051473

10-27-06, 02:15 PM

I programed my 720 this morning and everything works great. Only took about 10 minutes. (DISH VIP-622, Sony TV, Onkyo AVR and DVD/CD) I am sure over the next few days there will be some tweeks.

Two questions, when I push the right arrow button under the LCD or any of the three buttons on the right side of the LCD the screen distorts. Is this common? Second, the little rubber cover for the USB port will not stay closed. Has anyone had similar issues?

iGrooveLA

10-27-06, 02:17 PM

Are you sending discrete codes, or is your 720 programmed to cycle through the sources to get to the right input?

it's cycling through the inputs...at first i thought it was because i was having the TV skip the inputs that i wasn't using and that's why the 720 wasn't getting it right...so i went ahead and put back all the inputs 1-8 but it's still getting it wrong.

if i send discrete codes will it eliminate that problem? how do i send dicrete codes? i don't even know what that is! :D here is my set up:

Sony 46V25L1 (aka v2500) LCD TV
Motorola HD Receiver/PVR
Sony Tivo unit
Oppo 971H
Soundmatters FullstageHD
Gamecube

Thanks!

gadgtman

10-27-06, 02:37 PM

it's cycling through the inputs...at first i thought it was because i was having the TV skip the inputs that i wasn't using and that's why the 720 wasn't getting it right...so i went ahead and put back all the inputs 1-8 but it's still getting it wrong.

if i send discrete codes will it eliminate that problem? how do i send dicrete codes? i don't even know what that is! :D here is my set up:

Sony 46V25L1 (aka v2500) LCD TV
Motorola HD Receiver/PVR
Sony Tivo unit
Oppo 971H
Soundmatters FullstageHD
Gamecube

Thanks!
You definitely want to send discrete codes if your TV allows you to do it - that way it doesn't cycle to the correct input, which can often get mucked up.

All you need to do is change your TV settings. The best way to see what discrete codes are available for your TV is to hit the device button (on the 720), then select TV, then scroll through all of the pages. Anything that shows on these screens is considered a discrete code as far as the Harmony is concerened.

Next, login (or use the software), go to Devices and click More Options under TV. Select Adjust Inputs...I'm guessing you have "flip through the inputs until I get to the right one....: selected, right? Choose the next one that says "I go directly to the input that I want", then follow the rest of the steps and select only the inputs you need.

Your associated Activities should now go directly to the correct input rather than cycling through them.

Call support if you get stuck....but that should work.