Don't see as many threads on this remote as the other harmonies, so I thought I'd share my thoughts on my first day with the Harmony 890.

I was leaning towards buying one of the cheaper Harmony remotes (particularly the 670) and then buying a cheap RS IR extender, but then I saw the notable discounts on the 880 and 890 Amazon had. I was all but ready to buy the 880 + IR extender since I only currently have one component (my receiver) out of view, but ultimately decided to go 890 for native RF support since in the future I may have more and more components out of normal remote view. Plus the nearly half price from Amazon made the decision easier.

Anyway, it arrived yesterday. I had heard repeatedly in the forum that the web site was a much more preferable way of configuring/updating the remote, but I didn't really find that to be the case. One of the first things I wanted was to rename one of my activities, but I couldn't figure out how to do it on the web site. Doing it with the regular software was trivially easy. I also didn't like the look and feel of the website. It seemed less polished than the normal software. Anyway, I have found configuring the devices and actvities to be pretty intuitive. I was tickled that when adding the devices, three of the example model #'s after entering the manufacturer were my exact model!

One thing that I am irritated with is the need to plug in the extender for an update any time you update anything on the remote. This is tedious since often I am not changing anything that should involve the extender. It's made worse by the fact that the power supply for the extender can not be removed from it, so you have to unplug it every time you do an update.

I found setting up activities to be quite easy over all. For the most part, the remote sets up the buttons by default very well. The only things I had to change for watching cable was mapping the replay button (rewind 7 seconds) and the fact that the MENU button was mapped to MENU for my SA 8300HD, which is just a duplicate of the GUIDE button instead of the correct function (SETTINGS).

One gripe I have is with the remote itself. It just feels very cheaply made. Several buttons seem to be very "loose" and can be moved around in their positions. I also would have liked a more tactile feel to the buttons rather than the simple click. The buttons are very close to each other with little space seperating them, making it a bit harder to navigate the remote by "feel". It feels very fragile as a whole. I am terrified of dropping it. I am not in love with the layout of the buttons. The volume and channel up/down buttons are very skinny and I would really like them in a more central location rather than on the edges on the remote. I also don't like the numeric keypad being at the absolute bottom of the remote as it makes them a bit harder to access. A little bit of space between the bottom of the remote and the numeric pad (ala the SA 8300HD's remote) would have been welcome. A lot of these issues will lessen once I learn the layout better, but the physical properties of the remote are a bit of a disappointment.

As far as how well the remote works, I love it. The RF functions work perfectly with my receiver which is off to the side. Plus, its IR range is much, much better than that of my regular remotes. We have an ottoman which really blocked a lot of my components that sit low on my tv stand from receiving signals, but with the harmony it has proven to be no problem. Also, it does a great job of controlling them from my dining table without having to point to a precise location. I am very impressed and pleasantly surprised by how well it sends the IR signals. After a few failed first attempts at performing activities, the remote assistant seemed to figure out the issues itself and now all my activities are now working perfectly (with further testing needed). It really has allowed me to put all my other remotes in a drawer and control everything at one time with one remote, which of course is the goal.

I really don't think this is very user friendly for the non-tech savvy. There is almost no documentation included with the remote. I haven't seen an electronic user guide yet either, though I am sure there is one. If my parents had bought this, I know they wouldn't have figured it out.

So far, my experience is largely positive. It seems to perform all the functions I bought it for. I know there are reliability problems reported, so I will be watching out for them.

For those wondering my devices are:

Panasonic TH-50PX60U plasma
Pioneer 1015-TX receiver
Sony SLV-N750 VCR
Samsung 850 DVD player
Scientific Atlanta 8300HD cable box
And, while not being controlled by the harmony, I have a Nintendo Wii and PS2 connected and added activities for switching to playing them.
I'll be connecting one or more CD players to the receiver soon as well.

Anyway, I hope this is helpful for anyone considering this remote!

Glad you are enjoying...I'm going between this and the 1000...

question for you, re: the panny plasma, i have a 9uk series...did you have to program macros for the aspect ratios?

thanks

Glad you are enjoying...I'm going between this and the 1000...

question for you, re: the panny plasma, i have a 9uk series...did you have to program macros for the aspect ratios?

thanks

No. When I added the "Watch CABLE" activity, one of the soft keys (by the screen) was set to aspect and toggles between the tv's (not the cable box's) various stretch and zoom modes. Since the TV has more options than the box, I found this to be preferable, but I really doubt I'll use the function much anyway. Not sure if this button is on by default for the other activities. Now if you want to automatically switch aspects for different activities, you'd probably have to configure it somehow. From what I hear this shouldn't be too difficult.

perfect...thanks!

Just wanted to amend that I was looking at the web site today, and renaming an Acivity IS quite easy on the site. I am not sure what my problem was yesterday. Either I was having a brainfart, or the site was not behaving correctly (probably the former). I do still prefer the look of the regular software.

Another question for anyone else with one:

I'm a Mac household...one thing keeping me away from the 1000 is apparently, though it says it's mac compatiable, it isn't...so, hows the 890 with a mac?

Thanks.

I really want one of these to control my projector's equipment rack, but this thread isn't the first time I've heard complaints about the remote's build quality. Someone had a button fall off I believe.

For peace of mind I could get it at Costco, but it's $100 more than Amazon!

Also, does the remote work with X10 devices?

I'm using it with a PowerMac G4...works great. Less glitchy through the website than with the local software it seems, but I usually end up using the software.

Removing the IR reciever is a HUGE pain though. Thankfully, I think I'm finally done programming it.

@Soybean

I don't think it's X10 ready out of the box (although it IS Z-Wave ready) I would think you could program it from an X10 remote though...the learning capabilities are good.

Also, I'm not as down on the construction as pwr is. It is light...which i don't think is a bad thing, but I guess it does give it a fragile feeling. I've dropped it a couple times though on a wood floor (from around 2-3') and it's no worse for the wear...not even a scratch. Not something you want to leave around kids though, but that probably goes w/o saying.

I agree w/ pwrmetal about the # buttons though, it's unfortunate they're that far down...it's awkward to change channels..., but out of all the functions I use these the least anyway.

Panasonic TH-42PH9UK
Kenwood VR7070
Oppo 970
SA 8300HD

Well, here at the end of day 2, my honeymoon is over. Today I added a CD Jukebox as a 2nd RF device. Everything worked just fine. Went out tonight and came home and decided to watch some tv. Turned everything on and things were fine (remote turned on my receiver (via RF) with no issues). After a while decided it was bedtime and hit the off button. Everything turned off except the receiver. All of a sudden none of my RF devices (receiver or CD Jukebox) can be controlled. I changed nothing. It was working when I turned things on, and then just stopped. I have tried all the various troubleshooting suggestions and done several updates (my last ditch effort tonight is removing the CD Jukebox device). I'm giving up after this, but anticipate a long, painful, irritating call with Logitech support in the morning. I am quite bummed.

Well, sadly I have been upgraded to the dreaded "waiting for a call from tier 2 support" status. At least my initial waste of time call took less than 30 minutes. I am pretty sure that this will result in them shipping me a new extender and possibly a new remote. Looking at the devices, it's clear to me the remote thinks it's sending RF signals and that the RF extender just isn't receiving them even though they can connect to each other fine. I am guessing either the RF entender is broken or the remote's RF transmission capabilities are borked. I would definitely have to say "buyer beware" at this point since the RF functionality failed barely 24 hours after I got it. Guess I'll have to do some remote "pointing" for the forseeable future....

I'm having a tough time choosing between the same two options you were looking at:
a.) Harmony 880 + IR repeater for $X
b.) Harmony 890 for $(X + 43)

I don't know which way to go on this. I like the flexibility of RF in that you needn't point it at a sensor, and the potential to control lighting when I get around to installing control modules. On the other hand, I can save $43, plus reviews for the 880 seem more solid than the 890. The fact that yours just died is a warning sign too.

Yes, essntially what I have right now IS an 880 until I get my issue resolved. I am thinking of finding a store with a generous return policy and picking up another extender today to see if that is the issue.

I am pleased to report I got the extender working again. I tried removing the extender from my list of remotes and then adding it back. After the update, this forced my remote to resync with it at startup (as opposed to me doing it through the system menu). I have no idea if this "auto" resync is better than the manual connect function, but it started working again afterwards. I also discovered due to my forgetting to plug in the emitter, that the RF extender blasts IR quite well. I had it sitting on my sub woofer sort of towards the side of my stero cabinet, and the receiver got commands beautifully. So I will probably be able to go without any emitters connected, which is nice. I am updating now with my CD Jukebox back in the mix (also as an RF device) so if all is well after this, I will return to being happy (with some worry) with my remote again.

EDIT: to update both (RF extender controlled) devices are working well again (knock on wood)!

Well, I went ahead and pulled the trigger at Amazon for the 890. Gotta have the RF flexibility! Hope it works well for me.

Definitely experiment with the RF extender without the emitters. I actually have mine sitting on the cabinet to the side (towards the rear) of my receiver. The receiver gets commands and the CDJukebox which is on a shelf below the receiver gets commands without any of the IR emitters hooked up. Nice.

Note for Pablo16 - I had the 1000... Returned it and bought an 890. The 1000 is beautiful - great eye candy. It looked great sitting on its stand. However, using a touch screen to control things like DVRs just doesn't feel "right" to me. I think this is something anyone trying to make this decision needs to consider. There is just something about the tactile feel of pressing a "real" button. It IS possible to program the few hard buttons on the 1000. But I much prefer having dedicated REC, FWD, REW, PLAY, etc. buttons on my remote.

Also, VERY IMPORTANT, note that the 1000 does NOT include the RF Wireless Extender. So if you want to use components in a cabinet you'll have to buy the RF extender in addition to the 1000. The 890 DOES include the RF extender.

Hope this helps!

PWRMETAL: Can you tell me what button on the Harmony functions as the "last channel recall" button for your Panny? On the Panny remote, it is called "R-TUNE", located just to the left of the number 0 on the number pad.
Thanks

"PREV" on the right side of the remote above the Channel up/down button.

"PREV" on the right side of the remote above the Channel up/down button.

:o I'll have to go to Staples and get one of those "THAT WAS EASY" buttons! :D

Next, I have to find out what the MEDIA button does - although its not an issue right now. Maybe by the time I need it I'll have it figured out by then! I assume its for the MEDIA CENTER on computer, although I'm not sure why it would need its own button on the remote itself. Its a real pain paying all this money for a remote that doesn't come with instructions/manual! :(

Thanks for your help.

Next, I have to find out what the MEDIA button does

This one I had to look up on the user manual. (If you log into the logitech remote web page (same user id and password you use to log into the software) and look at the top of the page you'll see a link for the User Manual.)

For the media key it says:

In the WATCH TV activity, press this button to view your Favorite Channels on the display.

I received an 890 as a gift at Christmas. It's been a great addition to the household, but I have a configuration problem I'm wondering about. I have a Comcast DVR running into a Mits 65732. Last weekend I added a cablecard so that I can run the PIP (or side-by-side). The channel controls are running the DVR when I'm in TV watching mode. I can only control the channels on the TV (cablecard) by selecting the device "TV". Even then, the numbers only work if I'm not in PIP mode. In PIP, only the channel up/down keys change the cablecard channel. Does anyone have a similar setup? If so, any ideas on a better configuration? No problems at all controlling the other components.

I have an 890 and I love it. It controls our Panasonic Plasma, Yamaha Receiver, Panasonic DVD Player, and Directv HD DVR. Because all of the components are in a large closet (except for the Plasma).

dcochran, I don't have a set up like yours, but I would suggest you go into that activity (in the software) and manually map some unused buttons to control the tv's channel up-down buttons (or map some screen buttons to do it). The #'s are going to be tricky. I think you'll have to choose one or the other for the numeric buttons for default use in the activity and then switch to the non default device to control the other.

dcochran, I don't have a set up like yours, but I would suggest you go into that activity (in the software) and manually map some unused buttons to control the tv's channel up-down buttons (or map some screen buttons to do it). The #'s are going to be tricky. I think you'll have to choose one or the other for the numeric buttons for default use in the activity and then switch to the non default device to control the other.

Thanks. That's how it's set up now and may be the best option given the lack of something like a shift key to redeploy the numbers. I haven't figured out why the cablecard numbers don't work in PIP mode, but that may be a display-specific issue.

I purchased the 890 several months ago and have been very happy with it. However, I agree there are several things that would greatly improve it.

First, having to disconnect the IR blaster and take it to my computer every time I update my remote is a pain and even trivial updates that should only concern the remote require both to be updated.

Second, the all silver remote is fancy looking but definitely impedes on functionality. I would prefer a black remote with rubberized buttons that have key functions in bright colors. All Symbols should be enlarged so when the family comes for a visit reading glasses aren't required to use the remote. Key buttons such as channel up and down and volume up and down should be tripled in size. Rubberize the bottom of the remote so when I try to slide down to the lower button it doesn't shoot out of my hand like a wet bar of soap (no comments from you Bubba).

Third, the softkey screen should give the option of large text with no screen image. Once again, the parents won't be scrambling for their reading glasses.

That covers my main gripes. It does a great job of controlling my equipment (Sony 50" SXRD, Yamaha Receiver, Sony DVD Player, Xbox 360 w/ HD-DVD Player and DLO Deluxe IPod dock). There is the occasional glitch where it doesn't turn something off but I usually find it catches the problem the first with the help button.

Also, a little tip I learned in getting the IR tips to stick to my equipment is to use a hot glue gun. You can also use it to tack down the wires and make them less noticable.

Definitely experiment with the RF extender without the emitters. I actually have mine sitting on the cabinet to the side (towards the rear) of my receiver. The receiver gets commands and the CDJukebox which is on a shelf below the receiver gets commands without any of the IR emitters hooked up. Nice.

I have a cabinet in which my equipment is located. It consists of Directv HD H20 receiver, Toshiba HD DVD and a Denon 2307 AVR.

I haven't done anything yet in the way of setting up my 890. The cabinet is enclosed and is about 2 feet by 4 feet inside dimension. The Satellite Receiver will be on one side of the cabinet interior and the AVR and HD DVD on the other. There is no inside partition between the two sides.

1. Do you think the blaster of the extender might do the job?
2. How sensitive is the placement of the extender?

Thanks,


Bill

1. Do you think the blaster of the extender might do the job?
2. How sensitive is the placement of the extender?


I haven't really experimented much with placement. My cabinet holding the CD player is not enclosed. I have only had the extender in the position I detailed above (beside and towards the rear of the receiver which sits on the top shelf) and on my sub woofer which sits to the side of the cabinet. Things worked fine in either position. You can experiment around yourself and see what works for you. Thankfully moving the RF extender around and plugging/unplugging emitters doesn't require an update, unless you want to assign emitter points to specific pieces of hardware (to be controlled - which I never bothered with when I was still using them).

Another question for anyone else with one:

I'm a Mac household...one thing keeping me away from the 1000 is apparently, though it says it's mac compatiable, it isn't...so, hows the 890 with a mac?

Thanks.

Huh? The 1000 isn't mac compatible?! That's the first I've heard of this. Why? It doesn't use the online database? I mean, I also have an intel MBP, so I can do the windows way also. Just surprised really.

omg this is the most painful experience. the remote will not update no matter how much I try. Ive removed the battery, used the website instead of the local program, rebooted the machine a few times, still no go. maybe I got a defective remote?? unbelievable. rant over.

Another question for anyone else with one:

I'm a Mac household...one thing keeping me away from the 1000 is apparently, though it says it's mac compatiable, it isn't...so, hows the 890 with a mac?

Thanks.

I'm running the 890 on a pre-Intel Mac without any problems. Software loaded without a hitch and all updates have worked fine.

Huh? The 1000 isn't mac compatible?! That's the first I've heard of this.

the 1000 is Mac compatible. the person who said it isn't doesn't know what he's talking about.

Just got a Harmony 890 for my living room to control my Sony 60" XBR2, Denon AV receiver, Motorola HD DVR, and DVD player. It's fantastic! My 7-year-old can now control everything. Even my wife can use it :p !

Here's a question I have: I like this remote so much, I would like to have a second one for controlling my basement home theater (Sanyo Z5, another Denon AV receiver, Motorola HD DVR). Can I use two Harmony RF remotes in the same house? When I program a remote and an RF Wireless extender, are they smart enough to only with with each other, or if I have a second set, will both Denon receivers and Motorola DVRs receive the same commands at the same time?

Can anyone comment on the RF range of the 890? I currently use a URC 9910 IR/RF remote instead of keypads for my system's remote zones. The advertised distance is "up to a 100ft" when in reality it's more like 25ft. When I'm out on the deck it's hit or miss as to whether it'll work. Quite frustrating when only half of your macro gets executed thus leaving the system in a screwed up state. Does the 890 do any better?

I tried removing the extender from my list of remotes and then adding it back. After the update, this forced my remote to resync with it at startup (as opposed to me doing it through the system menu).

Does this mean that you used the "RF network tools" menu on the remote and chose "remove RF extender"? I had exactly the same experience as you - got the remote all set up, it was working beautifully, but then the extender crashed at some point while changing activities from "watch tv" to "watch dvd"

I figured I need to reboot or resync the extender/remote, but have been unable to do so. I am supposed to be getting a call from Tier 2 support in the next 24 hours...

:rolleyes:

Does this mean that you used the "RF network tools" menu on the remote and chose "remove RF extender"? I had exactly the same experience as you - got the remote all set up, it was working beautifully, but then the extender crashed at some point while changing activities from "watch tv" to "watch dvd"


No, using the remote menu to resync didn't work at all. What I did was go into the software (on the PC) and removed the extender as one of my "remote control devices". Then I added it back, and updated. That took care of my problem and I haven't had one since. I hope this helps.

I understand this remote is controlled by activities. But can you include your lights in these options? For example when you hit play DVD your lights will dim?

The folks at Logitech suggested satlogo; I found it much easier to grab logos from Wikipedia! The logos were almost always the right size and even most of my local affiliate stations had logos on wikipedia. Hope that helps other frustrated Harmony users.

No, using the remote menu to resync didn't work at all. What I did was go into the software (on the PC) and removed the extender as one of my "remote control devices". Then I added it back, and updated. That took care of my problem and I haven't had one since. I hope this helps.

Have tried this 3 times on my own. Finally got fed up and called level 2 support. Spent 45 min on hold, 35 minutes on with a tech guy. Still could not pair the remote and the extender. He thinks it's a bug and asked me to call back tomorrow before 5pm. I'm giving these guys one more hour of my time and then I'm returning the remote to Ultimate Electronics. This has been the most frustrating, appalling, and stupid waste of time ever. Would rather pound sand.

:mad: :mad: :mad: :mad: :mad:

applehead, i had basically the same scenario an eventually harmony decided I have a defective unit and is shipping me another one.... we will see if this does it. good luck,chris

wagsgt,

Yes, you can manage lighting control with the H890. I use the H890 to control an IR543 X10 remote which, in turn, controls 4 X10 Lamp Modules that control table lamps around my media room. As a matter of fact, when I hit my BIG SCREEN MOVIE activity button, X-10 Universal Modules signal my screen controllers to open the trapdoor to my drop down screen and lower the screen; X10 Lamp Modules dim the lights; an X10 activated 110VAC outlet turns on the power to my ceiling mounted front projector that is plugged into it; turns on the projector; selects "My Movies" in my Media Center HTPC menu (where my ripped movies are stored; turns on my AVR and selects the correct input and audio type (e.g. DTS); and selects the correct input on my DVI switch which feeds the projector. When I'm finished watching the movie, I hit the 'off' button on the H890 remote and it undoes all the above and inserts 100 seconds of delay in the turn-off of the power outlet that powers my projector so that it can cool itself down before turning itself off. I am able to do all of this with 100% RF commands since Logitech has worked out bugs that plagued the remote until recently. I have another 8 activities that perform equally well.

Logitech also claims to be able to control Z-wave devices that might also solve your lighting challenge.

wagsgt,

Yes, you can manage lighting control with the H890. I use the H890 to control an IR543 X10 remote which, in turn, controls 4 X10 Lamp Modules that control table lamps around my media room. As a matter of fact, when I hit my BIG SCREEN MOVIE activity button, X-10 Universal Modules signal my screen controllers to open the trapdoor to my drop down screen and lower the screen; X10 Lamp Modules dim the lights; an X10 activated 110VAC outlet turns on the power to my ceiling mounted front projector that is plugged into it; turns on the projector; selects "My Movies" in my Media Center HTPC menu (where my ripped movies are stored; turns on my AVR and selects the correct input and audio type (e.g. DTS); and selects the correct input on my DVI switch which feeds the projector. When I'm finished watching the movie, I hit the 'off' button on the H890 remote and it undoes all the above and inserts 100 seconds of delay in the turn-off of the power outlet that powers my projector so that it can cool itself down before turning itself off. I am able to do all of this with 100% RF commands since Logitech has worked out bugs that plagued the remote until recently. I have another 8 activities that perform equally well.

Logitech also claims to be able to control Z-wave devices that might also solve your lighting challenge.

Dan, Thanks for the info! I plan on using a Grafik Eye to control the lighting in my room, so it seems that will be able to perform the the same functions as your system. Corret? Minus the power outlets.

Wagsgt,

I am not familiar with the Grafik Eye product line: but, I checked the setup info on the H890 programming web site and the Grafik Eye brand is not listed as a supported device. So, you MAY be able to use the H890 to control the Grafik Eye but you would have to teach it the correct commands using the remote that works with the Grafik Eye products. I suggest you contact the Harmony tech support folk to determine if your chosen product can be programmed into the Harmony H890. They may do it for you; if not maybe they can give you advice on whether it can be done or not. Sorry I can't be more help.

Can anyone tell me if the 890 will work with the DirecTV HD HR20 native RF mode?

Can anyone tell me if the 890 will work with the DirecTV HD HR20 native RF mode?

It seems I tried this in the process of setting it up and it didn't fly. It works fine tho in an enclosed cabinet with just the blaster and no IR wires.

I did have to reset the DirecTv box to IR, of course.

Everything went perfectly in setting the 890 up. I just followed the directions and everything worked like magic. A rare occurance for me. :rolleyes:

Bill

I had the harmony 880 and had a little bit of problems with the IR and the DirecTV HD HR-20. That's why I returned it, and now I want to pick up the 890 because I found that my HR-20 has RF built-in.

We'll see how it works. I just bought the remote from Amazon, it should be here in a couple of days. I will let you know the results.

I got an 890 a few days ago. I also have had a 659 for a couple years that I love.

Different story with the 890. I got some basic stuff set up on it, but now as I try to tweak and customize it I'm constantly getting the error "Unable to display content". Tech support, even level 2, couldn't do anything. They just said it's a problem with their software/database and that they are working on it. What a joke. I can't even complete the setup of the remote due to the screwed up database software. The remote is pretty useless if I can't program it!

After googling this problem I see that there have been numerous reports of it off and on dating back several months. They need to hire some compentent programming geniuses or something. It is totally unacceptable to have those problems. Those problems are fatal flaws. The product REQUIRES that the software work in order to be able to function.

I've gone from 100% loving Harmony remotes to 95 % hating them.

I had the harmony 880 and had a little bit of problems with the IR and the DirecTV HD HR-20. That's why I returned it, and now I want to pick up the 890 because I found that my HR-20 has RF built-in.

We'll see how it works. I just bought the remote from Amazon, it should be here in a couple of days. I will let you know the results.


The DirectTV boxes seem to work on a stronger frequency then the Speakercraft IR repeating systems we use. We called Speakercraft about the issues we were having and they suggested we put a piece of scotch tape between the sat box and the emitter to somewhat decrease the strength of the signal being sent. That seems to work without a problem now. I suggest trying that if you have this problem, it may not be just a Speakercraft issue. I believe the model we were having a problem with when we called was the HR-20 too.

As for the Harmony issues, I absolutely hate harmony now. As a dealer who installed them on a regular basis, it was pretty simple, until the software was updated. Now it is nothing but problems. Last week, just to make a couple quick changes on a customers remote, I had a problem downloading to the remote. I had to call the Harmony Dealer Tech line and wait for almost 45 minutes for a rep to pick up, to do a quick change in the account to allow it to download. I also installed a 890 this past Friday, the first one I have installed. I found the process of setting up the RF to be a pain, as the software I was using had no mention of RF anywhere, I had to stumble around to find what was needed to make it work. Once that was done, I was incredibly annoyed to find out that I had to unplug the RF base to update it. :rolleyes: . We were there from 8 in the morning installing this system, it was now going on 7pm and I had to dismantle part of the system to get to the power to unplug the damn RF base? NOT HAPPY. It then of course takes about 5-10 minutes to update each (the remote and the base). OF course when I went through the remote and realized there was no DVR button on it, I had to do another update. I informed the higher ups that I am no longer touching ANY harmony products. If they want to sell them, they can go program them, I will only be touching URC from now on.

I ordered a Harmony 890, but I might just return it after I get it from all that I am reading.

If you perfer to install URC remotes, what one would you recommend for a home theater?

Satelite HR-20
DVD Sony
Receiver Sony ST-800
Tivo Series 2
CD Sony
Projector Optoma

I want something that will be easy for my wife to use.

I ordered a Harmony 890, but I might just return it after I get it from all that I am reading.

If you perfer to install URC remotes, what one would you recommend for a home theater?

Satelite HR-20
DVD Sony
Receiver Sony ST-800
Tivo Series 2
CD Sony
Projector Optoma

I want something that will be easy for my wife to use.

Well it depends on if you want IR or RF, if you want just IR learning or if you want to program on the computer. Personally, I really like the MX-700 (IR) and the MX-850 (IR and RF). You would have to get the RF modular, the MRF300 with it to use the rf functions. They are both similar in style, really just different colors and the center select button is a lot easier to press on the 850. They are also both computer programmable and once you learn the software, they are very easy to program.

Harmony 890 Battery Charge Problem

I have been using my Harmony 890 since November 2006. I am now getting a message on the LCD screen that the battery is low and to reset it on the cradle. Well, I do that and it seems to be connected well. I cleaned the contacts. The message persists and the unit does not work.

Anyone have an idea on what need to be done to get the 890 functioning again?

Thanks

Trying to control my HTPC with my 895 (same as 890). Have the RF extender plugged into USB. Is this all I need to control my XP PC or do I need additional hardware?

Have downloaded Girder and will try it out tomorrow but wonder if I need an USB-IRT instead of the standard Logitech RF-extender module for this.

Anyone?

Can anyone tell me if the 890 will work with the DirecTV HD HR20 native RF mode?
I don't understand this but I hooked up my 890 to run my HR20. I thought it was not responding very well. I have it in my basement about 50' away. I then read about the HR20 remote doing RF. I changed it over and it works great. Is this working with my Harmony extender or is it working by itself? Whatever the case is I like it much better than the harmony remote.

Harmony 890 Battery Charge Problem

I have been using my Harmony 890 since November 2006. I am now getting a message on the LCD screen that the battery is low and to reset it on the cradle. Well, I do that and it seems to be connected well. I cleaned the contacts. The message persists and the unit does not work.

Anyone have an idea on what need to be done to get the 890 functioning again?

Thanks

I am having exactly the same issue, and am waiting for a call from Level 2 tech support. Will post when the issue is resolved (wishful thinking!).

I don't understand this but I hooked up my 890 to run my HR20. I thought it was not responding very well. I have it in my basement about 50' away. I then read about the HR20 remote doing RF. I changed it over and it works great. Is this working with my Harmony extender or is it working by itself? Whatever the case is I like it much better than the harmony remote.

NO, the HD DVR HR-20 has RF built in and so does the remote. I actually switched to RF because I was having so many problems with the Niles IR repeater and the HR-20. Then someone on AVSFORUM.com told me that the IR repeaters are VERY strong and therefore the HR-20 will reject or ignore most of the IR commands. I moved the blaster off of the sensor and now I have it connected to the shelf in front of the HR20 pointing straight up. I works like a champ. It has been a week, never a missed command and is always quick to respond.

I now have a MX-3000 remote using only IR with the Niles repeater and it works everytime.

NO, the HD DVR HR-20 has RF built in and so does the remote. I actually switched to RF because I was having so many problems with the Niles IR repeater and the HR-20. Then someone on AVSFORUM.com told me that the IR repeaters are VERY strong and therefore the HR-20 will reject or ignore most of the IR commands. I moved the blaster off of the sensor and now I have it connected to the shelf in front of the HR20 pointing straight up. I works like a champ. It has been a week, never a missed command and is always quick to respond.

I now have a MX-3000 remote using only IR with the Niles repeater and it works everytime.

The HR20 does have problems with ir repeaters like you said. We have had issues with the speakercraft repeating systems. We have found that if we put a small strip of scotch tape between the emitter and the sattelite box, that it "tones down" the signal enough that it works flawlessly.

I am having exactly the same issue, and am waiting for a call from Level 2 tech support. Will post when the issue is resolved (wishful thinking!).

Same problem - recently developed. Place on charge cradle after low battery warning and the LCD screen goes through three screens ("Harmony Testing"; Missing License", and "Battery ADC Not Calibrated") and then locks up - totally nonfunctional - and even fails connectivity check from Logitech website so I can't reload the firmware. Tech support seems stumped - and level 2 support doesn't work on weekends.

I have a second unit that continues to work flawlessly - just like this one did prior to the crash and burn.

Anyone with any updates or fixes yet - short of returning unit for replacement?
When it works, I really like the product.

That's depressing to hear. I love my 890 so far, but who knows when the time bomb will go off. It's only been a week, but so far no issues with the wireless extender.

I also came in AFTER Logitech removed the ability to assign macros to a button, so I've never experienced that glorious level of customization. I'm joining the write-in effort to get them to restore it.

Harmony 890 Battery Charge Problem

I have been using my Harmony 890 since November 2006. I am now getting a message on the LCD screen that the battery is low and to reset it on the cradle. Well, I do that and it seems to be connected well. I cleaned the contacts. The message persists and the unit does not work.

Anyone have an idea on what need to be done to get the 890 functioning again?

Thanks

OK, so we have finally resolved our non-charging 890. Spoke to someone in Level 2 support. He said the battery was malfuntioning, and they would send out a replacement. I was very sceptical, but sure enough it resolved the problem, and it is working and charging just fine now.

Hope that helps!

Trying to control my HTPC with my 895 (same as 890). Have the RF extender plugged into USB. Is this all I need to control my XP PC or do I need additional hardware?

Have downloaded Girder and will try it out tomorrow but wonder if I need an USB-IRT instead of the standard Logitech RF-extender module for this.

Anyone?
It sounds like you think the computer might be controlled by the RF extender back through the USB connection. This is not the case as far as I know. People use the USB-IRT to control a PC like you mention.

Just wanted to amend that I was looking at the web site today, and renaming an Acivity IS quite easy on the site. I am not sure what my problem was yesterday. Either I was having a brainfart, or the site was not behaving correctly (probably the former). I do still prefer the look of the regular software.
Does Logitech support the "regular" software anymore? Only the Web based software came with my newly purchased 890. Their Web site doesn't have it for download either. The remote's working great and doing exactly what I need, but I'm a gear-head and I'd like to try it.

Does Logitech support the "regular" software anymore? Only the Web based software came with my newly purchased 890. Their Web site doesn't have it for download either. The remote's working great and doing exactly what I need, but I'm a gear-head and I'd like to try it.

The software that came with the remote is still web based. (You have to login to the online database to use it.) The front end is just different on the software that came with it as opposed to logging into the Harmony web site and using the web browser interface. That's the distinction I was making.

The software that came with the remote is still web based. (You have to login to the online database to use it.) The front end is just different on the software that came with it as opposed to logging into the Harmony web site and using the web browser interface. That's the distinction I was making.
IC. Thanks!

I've had my 890 for only a couple of days and have played with it some, have a question.

After selecting activity "play pvr" to power up my components, the options on the 8 programmable buttons are different than if I push "device" and then "pvr" (I was able to customize those buttons to see exactly what I want on the first "page")

I'd like for my customized 8 buttons to pop up right after I select "play pvr" instead of having to push device then pvr to bring up this screen, anyone know how to do this?

I've had my 890 for only a couple of days and have played with it some, have a question.

After selecting activity "play pvr" to power up my components, the options on the 8 programmable buttons are different than if I push "device" and then "pvr" (I was able to customize those buttons to see exactly what I want on the first "page")

I'd like for my customized 8 buttons to pop up right after I select "play pvr" instead of having to push device then pvr to bring up this screen, anyone know how to do this?

If you are pressing device then you are not using the remote properly. That will control ONLY that device. So your volume will not work while in the device mode for instance. If you do not have any of the desired buttons in your lcd customizable buttons, then you will want to further customize your remote. The software should have automatically put some options on those buttons to begin with. Login to your account and under the activities section, click on the (I believe) customize button. I am not 100% sure what it says on this button because I don't really use Harmony's anymore so I forget. Anyway, you are looking for the edit buttons option. From there you can add whatever functions pretty much that you want there. If I am a little off or you need more help, I am sure someone else will chime in. If they don't I will log into an account and take a peak to help guide you. I just don't have the software on this computer. I would have to grab my work laptop and boot it up to take a peak.

Ah, thank you. I've got the hang of that now.

Newbie questions:
After reading this thread and checking the harmony it still isn't clear to me if the 890 will do RF and IR without the Z wave component.

My situation is this:
I have a Panny 9UK 65" on the front wall with the components in a rear cabinet currently using a niles IR extender which works pretty well for the most part. I would like to add X10 dimmer switches (rear of room) as well. My understanding is that X10 is RF so I am trying to find a remote that will allow me to do IR and RF to control both TV/components and lights.

Thanks

Newbie questions:
My situation is this:
I have a Panny 9UK 65" on the front wall with the components in a rear cabinet currently using a niles IR extender which works pretty well for the most part. I would like to add X10 dimmer switches (rear of room) as well. My understanding is that X10 is RF so I am trying to find a remote that will allow me to do IR and RF to control both TV/components and lights.

Thanks
As far as I know... not gonna happen directly. But I've been wrong before. This is probably too complicated for your application, but since I'm going to be using CQC anyway:

A USB IR adapter will be used to trigger a CQC event in response to the remote. CQC will then control Instean (or X10) dimmers through their PC based controller.

Can I use multiple RF extenders with one remote? I saw the reverse question earlier but haven't been able to verify this one. Thanks.

Can I use multiple RF extenders with one remote? I saw the reverse question earlier but haven't been able to verify this one. Thanks.

You should check with Logitech to be sure, but I *think* the 890 can handle up to 2 RF extenders.

I just got my system installed at new house, working on setting up activities for my 890...there is a device setting for a PS3 but I thought the PS3 remote was bluetooth?

I just got my system installed at new house, working on setting up activities for my 890...there is a device setting for a PS3 but I thought the PS3 remote was bluetooth?

Correct. The activity will set your tv, receiver, etc. to pay attention to the PS3, but the remote itself will not turn on/off or control the PS3 in any way without some sort of remote adapter for the PS3.

How is it that every wire coming out of the IR extender can have 2 bugs? can you use these 2 for different devices?

How is it that every wire coming out of the IR extender can have 2 bugs? can you use these 2 for different devices?

Yep, you can use the two emitters on the end of each wire on different devices.

Correct. The activity will set your tv, receiver, etc. to pay attention to the PS3, but the remote itself will not turn on/off or control the PS3 in any way without some sort of remote adapter for the PS3.

If anyone has found any kind of adapter to use with the PS3, I'm all ears! It's a real pain to be able to replace all of your remotes except one!

If anyone has found any kind of adapter to use with the PS3, I'm all ears! It's a real pain to be able to replace all of your remotes except one!

I don't think there is any PS3 IR adapter at this point. I think some people have a kludgey workaround with a PS3 to PS2 controller adapter and plugging in the PS2's IR adapter into that, but I think it only gives limited functionality. You should check in the PS3 forum. I don't have a PS3 yet, so I am not sure that what I describe is the actual workaround. I am sure everyone is hoping for a true PS3 IR remote adapter in the future.

EDIT: I looked for you. Kludge instructions here. (http://www.remotecentral.com/articles/ps3-ir-remote2.htm)

I was wondering: are the emitters pass-through? In other words, if I want to use a device's original remote, would I need to remove the sticked-on emitter so the device can "see" the IR signal (from the original remote)?

I was wondering: are the emitters pass-through? In other words, if I want to use a device's original remote, would I need to remove the sticked-on emitter so the device can "see" the IR signal (from the original remote)?

I currently have the H890 and I have had no problem controlling any devices (with the original remotes) that I have placed an IR emitter on.

I also came in AFTER Logitech removed the ability to assign macros to a button, so I've never experienced that glorious level of customization. I'm joining the write-in effort to get them to restore it.

I too am joining it asking them to restore it. I have a 659 that I used for years with my old system that was great and the customizable macros were awesome. :) Setting up my 890 this weekend I was for sure disappointed to see that I could not seemingly doing anything that didn't seem too "basic".

ie, I wanted to tell the remote to switch my picture presets on my Mitsu TV after completing an activity change. Can't figure out how to do that now that macros are gone! :mad: Any thoughts or am I looking at just pressing that picture button myself?

I was wondering: are the emitters pass-through? In other words, if I want to use a device's original remote, would I need to remove the sticked-on emitter so the device can "see" the IR signal (from the original remote)?

Yes the emitters allow IR to pass through them, so no you don't have to remove them. You also don't have to exactly center the stick on emitter on top of the IR receiver on your target device, as the emitters are strong enough.

A little clarification please on the RF Wireless extender and IR emitters...

My components are all located out of site behind a wall in a seperate room. Basically, I need the RF Extender in line-of-sight of the 890 with the IR emitters running to the components, correct?

But how strong is the 890's transmission and RF extender's reception? In an ideal world, I'd like the RF extender as "out-of-site" as possible, such as behind the TV (wall mounted 52" Samsung) where there are no actual "walls" seperating the 890 and the RFextender. i.e. will the signal work "around" objects?

A little clarification please on the RF Wireless extender and IR emitters...

My components are all located out of site behind a wall in a seperate room. Basically, I need the RF Extender in line-of-sight of the 890 with the IR emitters running to the components, correct?

But how strong is the 890's transmission and RF extender's reception? In an ideal world, I'd like the RF extender as "out-of-site" as possible, such as behind the TV (wall mounted 52" Samsung) where there are no actual "walls" seperating the 890 and the RFextender. i.e. will the signal work "around" objects?
It'll go through walls, even. Many use it to control components in a seperate equipment room. This is what I'll do as soon as the new house is done. They say 100' range.

It'll go through walls, even. Many use it to control components in a seperate equipment room. This is what I'll do as soon as the new house is done. They say 100' range.

Hmmm...so I'll only need to place the RF extender near my components in that room? Do I even need the IR emitters if this is the case?

Hmmm...so I'll only need to place the RF extender near my components in that room? Do I even need the IR emitters if this is the case?
The emitter in the extender seems to be quite powerful. I don't use any of the wired emitters. I have two stacks of equipment and the extender is about 3 feet away. If your equipment room is crowded enough that you can't get that distance you may need the emitters. Just try it out. You may be surprised.

so does the extender have to "plug" into a component to control it? What do you do if it doesn't have an IR input jack?

so does the extender have to "plug" into a component to control it? What do you do if it doesn't have an IR input jack?
The extender has its own IR emitter built in. If you have the room to face the extender toward the components you want to control it works great. There's a coverage "cone" so the larger the area your components span the further away you'll have to place the extender. If you don't have room for the extender's "cone", that's what the individual emitters are for.

The extender has its own IR emitter built in. If you have the room to face the extender toward the components you want to control it works great. There's a coverage "cone" so the larger the area your components span the further away you'll have to place the extender. If you don't have room for the extender's "cone", that's what the individual emitters are for.

that makes sense, thanks erkq!

Question: do you think the 890 is the remote I need, read below:

I have decided that instead of worrying about lost remotes what I need to do is get one remote to control everything. My other problem is that I got a new rack for all of my AV equipment and I can not control everything in the rack from every seat in the theater. I thus need a RF remote. Of course the same last problem is that I am a pilot and I am currently gone and my wife and visiting parents sometimes are not able to get everything set up correctly and I often get a call while out of state for directions as to how to do things. I have the following components.

Onkyo TX-SR674S 7.1 Channel Up-Converting A/V Receiver (Silver) (this selects my HDMI input and controls the sound)
Sony 40Gb PS3 (this I know is RF, and will be a problem, we use this to watch DVD’s and BD movies, and I use it for games)
Samsung DTBH260F HDTV Terrestrial Receiver (this is used to watch TV very infrequently, mostly just watch the Steelers!)
Channel Master 9521A Remote Control Antenna Rotor (this controls the direction of the antenna and is controlled by a small IR remote. Some channels require me to change the direction to get continued signal.)
Panasonic PT-AE3000 projector

My question is what remote should I use? I can put little emitters on the rack door (screen mesh) or directly on the components, but I can not put an IR emitter in front of them all to hit them all at the same time. I know the PS3 will be a problem and I could live with two remotes if I have to. Also is there a way to program the remote to change the direction of the antenna when ever I change the channel (I get about 15 different channels)? In the future I would like to expand and have a remote that could control lights and maybe even open the curtain in front of the projector screen. Also in the future I want to add a HTPC and a 15Tb media server. Can you guys recommend a reasonable remote, I just blew a big chunk on the projector so money is really a problem right now, but I maybe can get this for Christmas?

I have a problem....
when i close an activity, watch tv, with panasonic tv, dvdo edge and sat, the dvdo edge doesn't go off...it continue to be on. why? what do i miss?

I have a problem....
when i close an activity, watch tv, with panasonic tv, dvdo edge and sat, the dvdo edge doesn't go off...it continue to be on. why? what do i miss?

:D This thread has had almost no activity in two years. Go to the official 880 thread and post your question - you will get a response there.