So, for all of you Universal Remote lovers out there, how is everyone enjoying the MX-980 so far???

I have had success with this remote and while it does appear to have a few flaws/bugs, I do feel that it retains a lot of the functionality and ease of use of the MX-900 while incorporating a colorful LCD display closer to that of an MX-3000.

Some things that I have discovered to keep in mind/look out for:

1. Download the MX-980 expansion pack and favorite channel icons before you start. Lots of useful templates and icons here!

2. Follow the steps in the PROGRAM tab in order! If you do not add pages to devices, the IR codes do not all download from the IR database (No pages, no soft buttons, hence nowhere to put the codes).

3. You will be the most successful with this remote if you have had success with both the MX-900 and MX3000 remotes in the past as it is a blend of both remotes. If you are solid in a MX-900 only I suggest practice at the office before you hit a job site.

Questions/concerns that I have posted on universals forum and am yet to get answers on:

Question 1:
I have a fully functional remote and I want to add a new device to the first page of watch. Three buttons are Wide and combined while I have a left and right oriented button at the top for a total of 5 devices on page. I want to make one existing button left(currently wide and combined) without changing any macros, ect and put in a new right button and device.
Is this possible without deleting and re-creating the existing device as this is the only solution I have come up with so far?

Question #2
Importing and Exporting existing files/data into the MX-980.

I have tried the solution posted previously in the forum (On Universal Remote Forum) of opening a new file and clicking file and inport before beginning the remote programming. The problem that I have is with the Favorites section of the device. The device that I want to import is a DirecTV code set. In this code set, I have already built the favorite channels macros for directv as a test at the office. While the IR data and page layout are imported, the changes that I make to the favorites macros are not.

Please Help

Hopefully I have been of some help to some of you and any help that you can send my way is much appreciated!
Thanks,
Chad

Ok guys,
Got some help from people on Universal Remote on my first question.

Basically, you choose the wide button that you want to change and right click on it. Where the editor says combine button, you uncheck it. You then go to the image gallery, select the appropriate button (left or right) and drag it into the editor. Once you do that, you can head to create and name devices, add a new device, and go on from there. If anyone has any info on my second question, let me know.
Thanks

1. Download the MX-980 expansion pack and favorite channel icons before you start. Lots of useful templates and icons here!

Chad

How did you get access to the expansion pack. As a DIYer (non-professional) that purchased a MX-980 I do not have access to URC's site to download this file. I read on another forum that it is 297MB (ouch!) so sending it via email is impossible. Should I work with my original supplier (in this case Magnolia--who provided access to the MX-980 Editor) to get a copy?

I've had the MX-980 for a week now. I love it.

For importing old data, I've used the universal browser. I like the drag and drop aspect to that, choose what you want to import.


I'm still in the state where I still have to use my MX-800 because the MX-980 isn't complete yet (Too Busy).

I frown when I have to pick up the MX-800 when this is staring at me.

http://www.eddieramirez.net/images/MX-980/MX-980.png

Eddie

Yes, the expansion pack is almost 300MB zipped and does take some time to download even at a high connection speed. I would definitely go to your dealer. They should be able to rip it to a usb drive for you to take home and unzip!

Somebody please tell us how to get the expansion pack.

Somebody please tell us how to get the expansion pack.

From your dealer.

There is so little talk about the 980 here and remote central I'm frankly surprised, and a little nervous. does the lack of buzz indicate it's got some flaw keeping people away? it seems like a great device on paper. i'm waiting for my dealer to get them in stock.

how are you guys enjoying yours?

i know i can do toggle codes (bit variables) and branching logic. can you create macro functions such as the one below which would turn off all source components if no zones are powered on? (pardon the pseudocode)

zone2off() {
zone2status = 0;
<turn zone2off>
if( zone1status = 0 AND zone3status = 0 AND ... ) {
<call macro turnAllSourcesOff()>
}

(ed. i think i can as "macro nesting" is allowed)

what other data structures are available? what other variables types are available?
can I do something like "cableBoxStatus = cableBoxStatus + 1"? (ed. i think no)

are the blu-ray & hd-dvd logos available?

are the blu-ray & hd-dvd logos available?

The HD-DVD logos are discontinued.;):D

The HD-DVD logos are discontinued.;):D

people still own hd-dvd players even if toshiba stop the production of them. anyways there's no big deal.
I just bought a logitech harmony 890 and I hate it (shape, keys location and limitations) I still can return it.
I'm am now looking toward the MX-980 and the MRF-260. I'm just not sure if is a good choice.
I would have some macros involving X-10 lighting and appliance eg: watch a hd-dvd > turn the tv on switch imputs > turn the receiver on switch imputs > turn the hd-dvd on open the drawer > turns all lights off.
is the 980 a good pick for me?

thanks
Gui.

There is so little talk about the 980 here and remote central I'm frankly surprised, and a little nervous. does the lack of buzz indicate it's got some flaw keeping people away? it seems like a great device on paper. i'm waiting for my dealer to get them in stock.

how are you guys enjoying yours?

i know i can do toggle codes (bit variables) and branching logic. can you create macro functions such as the one below which would turn off all source components if no zones are powered on? (pardon the pseudocode)

zone2off() {
zone2status = 0;
<turn zone2off>
if( zone1status = 0 AND zone3status = 0 AND ... ) {
<call macro turnAllSourcesOff()>
}

(ed. i think i can as "macro nesting" is allowed)

what other data structures are available? what other variables types are available?
can I do something like "cableBoxStatus = cableBoxStatus + 1"? (ed. i think no)

One reason you may not be seeing a lot of information in this forum is that URC has decided that the MX980 cannot be sold thru their Authorized Online Dealers, and that they are not providing software to the general public via their website. Another reason may be that dealers still have availability to the MX950 for a few more months, and many dealers haven't switched over as they have MX950 programs in place and haven't begun building new MX980 programs. What you'll hear about the MX980 is, other than the $100 MSRP decrease, the graphics are awesome, the programming is similar to the MX950, and the variable programming is more intuitive.

this sub forum in general is dominated by Harmony users. us URC fans get no love around here :).

later.

This is a Harmony forum unofficially. People here hate dealers.

The MX980 is a nice remote.

This is a Harmony forum unofficially. People here hate dealers.

The MX980 is a nice remote.

Does the MX-980 come with a cradle or does it just plug in like the MX-810?

It has a pretty nice cradle.

I do have to charge mine every two or three days though.

Is that the norm?

Three days off the cradle with normal use is probably about right. Mine goes back in the cradle every night, so it's not an issue, even if I forget one night.

Three days off the cradle with normal use is probably about right. Mine goes back in the cradle every night, so it's not an issue, even if I forget one night.

Yeah, I've come to accept it.

I'm just used to my MX-800 who's battery could last a month. Plus I'd always have freshly recharged spares, so downtime was about a minute.

Does the Screen eat up that much juice or is the battery underpowered.

So does anyone know how to import codes (not learn them) into the 980? I've just added a C-1024 to an old LS 25 and the C-1024 instructions say download the Pronto codes, which I have. I'm not sure how to get them in the 980 though!

Bud

A word of warning if you are planning to use the mx980 with AT&T Uverse. After many wasted hours of programming it would not work properly with my AT&T Uverse box (Motorola 1216 I believe). It wasn't reliable in that you would have to push the buttons on the remote repeatedly to get a response. I am now using a mx950 and it controls the Uverse box with no problems whatsoever.

So does anyone know how to import codes (not learn them) into the 980? I've just added a C-1024 to an old LS 25 and the C-1024 instructions say download the Pronto codes, which I have. I'm not sure how to get them in the 980 though!

Bud

If you have the commands in a Pronto CCF file or in Pronto hex (begins with 0000), you can use the Universal Browser to get the commands into the MX-980, by dragging them in individually.

Mike, great. I do have them, I'll give it a try. Thanks.

Bud

Does anyone have the MX-980 Favorite Channel download from the URC Control Room? I have been impatiently waiting for my Authorized Dealer to send me this download on a CD from PA. They tell me that the file is too large to send via e-mail. I can understand the expansion pack but, not the favorite channel download.

Thanks for the help.

Does anyone have the MX-980 Favorite Channel download from the URC Control Room? I have been impatiently waiting for my Authorized Dealer to send me this download on a CD from PA. They tell me that the file is too large to send via e-mail. I can understand the expansion pack but, not the favorite channel download.

Thanks for the help.

The size of that file is 25.77MB which would be too large to send via e-mail. FYI, the expansion pack is 297.15MB.

Scott

Thanks for the info Scott.

I was not aware the Favorite Channel file was that large.

I apologize for my bad assumptions.

Chris

The size of that file is 25.77MB which would be too large to send via e-mail. FYI, the expansion pack is 297.15MB.

Scott
Anyone know where to download them? Only from URC, I guess?

Just sold my first mx980 and did all the programming. Great product and i am excited to continue working with them. I use to sell mx900's but these are significantly nicer in my opinion simply based on the GUI. I am anxious to connect one up with an msc400 and see how powerful of a tool it can be.

This is a Harmony forum unofficially.

Yep. And I wish someone could tell me why. Given the enthusiasm for the harmony, I tried an 880. Man are these thing cheaply made and crap! Makes me think that Harmony users only control very simple "family room" systems, and don't even understand the things that can be done with a good remote.

Just sold my first mx980 and did all the programming. Great product and i am excited to continue working with them. I use to sell mx900's but these are significantly nicer in my opinion simply based on the GUI. I am anxious to connect one up with an msc400 and see how powerful of a tool it can be.

What do you really expect to get out of it? I love the msc-400 and use them with mx-900 and tx-1000 remotes. I think the bang for the buck far outways having a remote with viables in it. The only thing that I miss is changing lables on button from with-in the remote's program. Of course there are inellegant work arounds to this. My view all started becuase the cost of a tx-1000 and a msc-400 is so close to that of a mx-3000 and it is so much more usable. Also the logic programing on the msc-400 is MUCH better than that in the remote. Infact I would say in the last 1.5 years, every job I have done has had an msc-400, and only one had a remote with variables (mx-950 and mx-3000)

So I have probed through about every MX-980 Post and could not find an answer for my questions.

Starting with the basics....I was a long time Harmony 880 user and just got fed up with it after having constant problems with them (On 7th one and its dieing), So I did some research and bought myself a MX-980. I have the updateable software, the expansion pack and the favorites add-on pack.

Here are my two questions:

1 - I programmed a macro to turn on my TV, Receiver and FiOs Cable box...I press the test button and all goes well! I then download it to the remote, hit the button and only the tv turns on. I see the IR activity light flash but only the tv comes on, so I rearrange the turn on sequence add some delay between on cues and still only the tv comes on! Keep in mind that no matter what it always works from the test button on the software.

2 - So lets say that I have pressed Watch, then FiOs Cable, the macros fire and I watch FiOs Cable for awhile, the wife then asks to Watch a DVD. Can or How do I program in the macro to turn off the cable box but keep the TV and Receiver on and switch inputs on the receiver. But lets say I now want to go back to FiOs Cable, so it fires DVD off, FiOs Cable box on, leaves the TV and Receiver on, and switchs receiver inputs. So on and So on....I'm looking for something similar to the way the activities work on the 880.

Do I need a MSC-400?

3 - How do I extend the amount of time a code is fired? (Simulate a press instead of a tap) I have increased the amount of repeats but still no luck

Please remember I am a nube to the URC stuff so take it easy on me! :-)

What is the battery life of the MX-980 supposed to be like?

I picked one up yesterday, and on a full charge it seems to get about 15 minutes of use. Clearly this is defective. But after looking around it seems that the battery life isn't great on a good unit. So basically I'm trying to decide whether to exchange it for another MX-980, or just get something different.

^^ i had the same 15 minute battery life with the 980 i originally purchased. i called URC and they told me to ship everything back to them including the original box (if you have it) and they shipped me new everything.

i found this thread due to the battery life question. mine needs a re-charge every couple of days. i just wanted to make sure this was normal, apparently it is :( . jeez, the batteries in my 850 last about 3 months. is it the backlight consuming the batteries? is there a way to turn off the backlight and dedicate a button on the remote to turn "ON" the backlight?

1 last vent, why didn't URC use AAA on this model? i use re-chargables on the 850 and always had spares around so down time was less than 1 minute.

vent mode off for now.... :)

Why aren't you guys just keeping the remote on the charging cradle when not in use...?

that's what i'll have to start doing, it's just my previous MX850 had me spoiled with it's battery life.

Why aren't you guys just keeping the remote on the charging cradle when not in use...?

That's a prety stupid requirement. That comment isn't to you, it's to whoever at URC though that remotes can "live" in a cradle.

I don't really want to have the charging cradle right next to my primary sittng positions. And I don't want to have to remember to walk over to the cradle to "hang up" the remote when I'm stumbling off to bed at night.

What does the "Sleep Timer" do?

For the most part I've got the rest of the editor figured out. I've spent several hours configuring for my setup, and have it working using the Harmony metaphor of separating Activities from Devices, so that once an activity is started the remote knows what devices should be on/off, and it's simple to then have a "Fix Setup" button that can reconfigure, kinda like "Help" on the Harmony's. I was worried about pulling this off until I discoverred in the Preferences that you can allow the special hard buttons (Listen, Watch, On, Off) to be assigned to.

But anyhow, what does "Sleep Timer" do? Seems like something potentially useful.

jay

What does the "Sleep Timer" do?

For the most part I've got the rest of the editor figured out. I've spent several hours configuring for my setup, and have it working using the Harmony metaphor of separating Activities from Devices, so that once an activity is started the remote knows what devices should be on/off, and it's simple to then have a "Fix Setup" button that can reconfigure, kinda like "Help" on the Harmony's. I was worried about pulling this off until I discoverred in the Preferences that you can allow the special hard buttons (Listen, Watch, On, Off) to be assigned to.

But anyhow, what does "Sleep Timer" do? Seems like something potentially useful.

jay

It sets a sleep timer. lol

Seriously, it brings up a special (non-configurable) window where you can select a time to shut down the system (or do whatever you want).....then after that lapse of time it fires your macro of choice. Kinda neat, but I ended up deleting it from my file because I didn't use it very much. Playing around with it is the best way to figure out how it works.

BTW, I'm interested in your "Help" screens. Mind sharing your config file?

That's a prety stupid requirement. That comment isn't to you, it's to whoever at URC though that remotes can "live" in a cradle.

I don't really want to have the charging cradle right next to my primary sittng positions. And I don't want to have to remember to walk over to the cradle to "hang up" the remote when I'm stumbling off to bed at night.

That's the price you pay for a graphics remote like the 980.

BTW, I know the "stumbling off to bed" situation. That's why I don't worry about it and always throw it on the charging base the next morning or whenever I get a chance.

It sets a sleep timer. lol

Seriously, it brings up a special (non-configurable) window where you can select a time to shut down the system (or do whatever you want).....then after that lapse of time it fires your macro of choice. Kinda neat, but I ended up deleting it from my file because I didn't use it very much. Playing around with it is the best way to figure out how it works.

BTW, I'm interested in your "Help" screens. Mind sharing your config file?

Hah! Indeed it is a sleep timer :-)

The user interface in the editor for the sleep timer is particularly bad--I never noticed that when I clicked the button it stayed selected. They should have instead made a command appear along with the rest of the steps in the macro.

And you are right, a simple experiment cleared that up.

I'll look to post the file soon. I may have implied too much witht he "Help", though. I've got discrete codes for all devices, so I don't need to emulate a Harmony's "Is the TV on?", "Is the AVR on?" ... q&a. Thus it's easy to re-fire the On/Off codes for each device depending on what the current activity wants. So there's one button for refiring all the power commands, and another button to re-enter the current activity which will re-send all the commands to configure the inputs.

I sure wish that the .RCF files were text-based, though, as much of what I have done is replicate the same things repeatedly for each device. If the RCF files were text based then I could have more easily written a perl script to create the RCF for me :-)

So I solved the battery problems. I took the remote that was sucking batteries in 15 minutes back to the dealer, and he happily swapped it out. I thought that would be the end of it. Nope.

When I got home with the new remote I plugged in the battery and stuck it in the cradle. It immediately lit the blue light showing fully charged. After a few hours in the cradle, I took the remote out, and it immediately died as if no power. Back in the cradle the blue LED came on and the remote rebooted. Take it out, same thing.

Just as if the battery was not plugged in at all.

That was the last unit my dealer had. So I went to Fry's and bought a new NP-60 battery, and everything now works great. Tomorrow I'm gonna call URC about getting that defective battery replaced.

Sounds like URC has issues with batteries. Not impressive. Which is a shame, because otherwise this remote totally rocks.

keep us posted with the battery life of your aftermarket battery.

thanks.

Sounds like URC has issues with batteries. Not impressive. Which is a shame, because otherwise this remote totally rocks.

Well, in URC's defence. They don't manufacturer batteries.

Yes they should be double checking the quality control of their supplier though.

keep us posted with the battery life of your aftermarket battery.

thanks.

I'll have to get back to you on this in a couple days. Right now I'm still having too much fun constantly tweaking the programming on the remote, which seems to use a lot of juice.

However, when the remote is just sitting idle it seems to be fine.

By the way, I called URC about the dead battery and they're sending me a new one. That had to have been one of the easiest and most pleasant product support calls that I've made in many years.

I'll have to get back to you on this in a couple days. Right now I'm still having too much fun constantly tweaking the programming on the remote, which seems to use a lot of juice.

However, when the remote is just sitting idle it seems to be fine.

That's another problem IMO, when the remote is plugged to our PCs it should charge it, I actually set the brightness at the lowest when I'm tweaking it because the LED stays ON when plugged with the USB cable.

My battery last 3 days, but I'm still putting it back on is craddle every night. Even if the icon says it's still fully charged. (when it starts getting low it goes fast)

Hello. I just received my 980 and i'm trying to tweak it. The problem is that when I hook it up to my computer and try to download the changes, I get an error message: "Not Exist RCManager.exe." Any thoughts as to what I should do?

keep us posted with the battery life of your aftermarket battery.


I resisted the temptation to reprogram the remote, and left it off the cradle for a couple days. At the end of the second day the 10% warning was going off. Note that I'm on vacation this week and the remote has been getting lots of use while I'm watching TV and movies.

The battery is one I picked up at Fry's. The name on it is "Digipower", and it's made in China, so I assume this to be a no-name poor quality-control Chinese company. The package claims 1050mAh, whereas the batter from URC says 1100mAh.

I ususally will buy Energizer brand replacement batteries from Batteries.com. The replacement they have for the NP-60 is this:

http://www.batteries.com/productprofile.asp?appid=374017

But it is only 850mah.

The package claims 1050mAh, whereas the batter from URC says 1100mAh.

My URC battery is rated only 1000 mAh, I don't get great battery life but I charge mine every day so I have not had a problem.

I know there were a lot of problems with batteries in the recent past for all sorts of consummer electronics, I don't really blame URC if they just got a bad batch of batteries from China, I do hope it is not a problem of to low of a spec battery for the power draw of the remote.

I don't really blame URC if they just got a bad batch of batteries from China

Oh I certainly blame them. They not only supplied the battery, they even put their own name on the battery. At that point it is most definitely the URC reputation on the line. Plus, the remote is one of URC design and needs completely unreasonable amounts of power.

Don't get me wrong, this is easily the best remote I have ever used and I do not regret buying it. But the power consumption is both a design and QA failure.

Oh I certainly blame them. They not only supplied the battery, they even put their own name on the battery. At that point it is most definitely the URC reputation on the line. Plus, the remote is one of URC design and needs completely unreasonable amounts of power.

Don't get me wrong, this is easily the best remote I have ever used and I do not regret buying it. But the power consumption is both a design and QA failure.


I would only blame URC if they spec'd a too low amperage battery, at this point I am not sure if it is not just a bad batch of batteries.

I have a Digital SLR that can take twice as many pictures on one battery as it can on an identicle second battery, it is obvious to me that the second battery is underperforming and therefore is bad.

If URC replaces bad batteries they are taking responsibility for the problem, now if they end up redisigning the remote so it can take a larger capacity battery I would admit it was a flawed original design.

I really like this remote and it has worked well enough for me so far, but I always recharge when I am not using it.

Oh I certainly blame them. They not only supplied the battery, they even put their own name on the battery. At that point it is most definitely the URC reputation on the line. Plus, the remote is one of URC design and needs completely unreasonable amounts of power.

Don't get me wrong, this is easily the best remote I have ever used and I do not regret buying it. But the power consumption is both a design and QA failure.

I just don't understand the problem. I use the remote and put it on the charger when I get a chance...it usually lasts a couple days if I don't remember to put it on the charger. Unless a person uses the remote 24/7 I just don't get this rant.

Hello. I just received my 980 and i'm trying to tweak it. The problem is that when I hook it up to my computer and try to download the changes, I get an error message: "Not Exist RCManager.exe." Any thoughts as to what I should do?

Are you running XP or Vista? If you're on XP, check the version of ActiveSync you have. Some have had problems with newer versions of Active Sync. Use the older version 3.7.1. With Vista, Windows Mobile Device Manager must be installed.

Hi Folks, I've been eagerly reading this thread in anticipation of the arrival of my MX-980. I did find a website that sells a 1400mah battery...it's made in Japan, not China, so I don't think its a cheap knockoff. I am wondering if this might help?

http://www.bluenook.com/product_detail-pid-1958.asp

1400mah vs 1000mah is a significant difference, or at least I would think it would be?

Chris

i'll roll the dice and buy the wasabi battery as posted by Cfoote. please note the battery is made in china, click on the bigger pictures on the bottom of the link. it says "Premium cells from Japan" on the front and rear pictures says "Made in China" LOL! gotta love chinese marketing.

anybody having issues with their RF box? the RF box with the antenna is receiving my inputs but its not out putting to the tiny IR transmitters. it works very sporadically.
sometime it sends a delayed rapid burst of IR signals after i have been feverishly pushing remote buttons.

i am positive it's receiving the signal because the LED on the antenna box flashes based on my remote button input.

thoughts?

i'll roll the dice and buy the wasabi battery as posted by Cfoote. please note the battery is made in china, click on the bigger pictures on the bottom of the link. it says "Premium cells from Japan" on the front and rear pictures says "Made in China" LOL! gotta love chinese marketing.

Let us know how you make out! Geez, those Chinese sure are smart :D I didn't even see the sticker. Well, let's hope it works, that would be great if it did...

the wasabi battery is ordered along with a $19 charger so i can have it charged and ready when needed. i should have both battery and charger next week. i will use it and post results.

the factory battery is lasting 2-3 days with little to moderate usage. we only watch tv in the evening so honestly, 2-3 days is pathetic if you ask me.

anybody have a clue about my 350RF issues?

the factory battery is lasting 2-3 days with little to moderate usage. we only watch tv in the evening so honestly, 2-3 days is pathetic if you ask me.

The battery lasting as little as 1 day wouldn't be an issue, if you used the supplied charging/storage cradle. I'm sorry, but I can't wrap my head around why this is such an issue for you...?

read my original post at the top of this page to understand. my MX850 will last 2-3 months on rechargable AAA's. why can't the MX980 last a week or so??

But why does it matter when you have a cradle that constantly keeps it at a full charge...?

Is there some reason you don't want to use the cradle...?

If there was, maybe I could understand your gripe. As it is, it just seems like your complaining only because you can, and not for a reason centered around something that effects how the remote functions, and therefore effects your use.

I don't mean to start something with you. I'm just honestly confused why a battery life of a couple of days matters when it should be fully charged everytime you pick it up?

read my original post at the top of this page to understand. my MX850 will last 2-3 months on rechargable AAA's. why can't the MX980 last a week or so??

So does my MX-900. My 880 and 810 last a week or so.

But the 980 is very different. Those graphics use a lot of power. In the case of my 900, I can pick it up, change the volume and set it back down and the only power used it to sent the IR code.

With the 980, as soon as I pick it up, the sensor kicks on the graphics display, and keeps it on even if I just change the volume. The it keeps it lit for several seconds after I set it down. That is a lot more power used.

x

Hello. I just received my 980 and i'm trying to tweak it. The problem is that when I hook it up to my computer and try to download the changes, I get an error message: "Not Exist RCManager.exe." Any thoughts as to what I should do?

Varify you installed the driver properly too. I was having this issue with the first 880 i did. I couldnt get it to download to the remote for the life of me. Went to the device manager checked USB when remote was plugged in, clicked update driver....driver located in mx980 file but couldnt tell you the exact name

i'll bet that you're one of those people that keep your cordless phone on the charger base all the time. :)

i'm not continuing to complain about the battery life, you brought it up again and i explained why i was concerned in my original post. i found this thread because i was concerned about battery life, everyone told me it's normal so i will deal with it. then someone posted about an after market alternative and i decide to buy it to see if it's worth the $20. no biggie, i will post my review of the after market battery once i receive it and try it out in the 980.

i am more concerned with my RF issues, so hopefully, someone else is having issues with their RF350 and can explain why my antenna box is receiving the signal from the remote but not transmitting the signal to the IR outputs.
But why does it matter when you have a cradle that constantly keeps it at a full charge...?

Is there some reason you don't want to use the cradle...?

If there was, maybe I could understand your gripe. As it is, it just seems like your complaining only because you can, and not for a reason centered around something that effects how the remote functions, and therefore effects your use.

I don't mean to start something with you. I'm just honestly confused why a battery life of a couple of days matters when it should be fully charged everytime you pick it up?

i'll bet that you're one of those people that keep your cordless phone on the charger base all the time. :)

Yep... lol. That's me... :) ...and also a strick rule, because it provides the added bonus of also being able to find the damn phone.

i am more concerned with my RF issues, so hopefully, someone else is having issues with their RF350 and can explain why my antenna box is receiving the signal from the remote but not transmitting the signal to the IR outputs.

Sorry... I have the MRF-260, and have had no problems. Although my MSC uses the 250 (as does the 350)...again no problems that I could detail.

Now you did say:
i am positive it's receiving the signal because the LED on the antenna box flashes based on my remote button input.

I pulled this from the 350's online page:

The MRF-350 receives Narrow Band RF (radio frequency) signals via the RFX-250 RF Sensor (antenna module). The RFX-250 displays RF interference via a bright red LED which flickers when interference is present. Simply relocate the RFX-250 out of the interference area to resolve the problem.

Is it possible that it's simply your antenna location, that's causing your problems..?

a buddy helped me figure out my RF issue. i had the channel on the remote different from the channel on the box. i had changed the channel due to interference and forgot to change the software.

With the 980, as soon as I pick it up, the sensor kicks on the graphics display, and keeps it on even if I just change the volume. The it keeps it lit for several seconds after I set it down. That is a lot more power used.

You do realize that the the backlight/button stuff is adjustable along with brightness, don't you? I'm not at home right now, but I believe I have both buttons and backlight set to 20 seconds, and I have the brightness set a few ticks lower than the factory setting. This way I don't burn out my eyes in a dark room, plus it probably uses less battery power.

You do realize that the the backlight/button stuff is adjustable along with brightness, don't you? I'm not at home right now, but I believe I have both buttons and backlight set to 20 seconds, and I have the brightness set a few ticks lower than the factory setting.

I think mine is set to 20 seconds as well and the brightness is definitely lower as default is way to bright.

Help....Help... Can someone please help me!!! I have a mx980 but no software. I got the remote from ebay (new) with no software. Please someone help me...

Have you tried contacting URC and asking them for the software?

No. is it true the only deal with dealers as far as give out the software?

return it if you can

yes only dealers can provide the SW

return it if you can

yes only dealers can provide the SW

That is not true. I got the software from URC directly after asking.

That is not true. I got the software from URC directly after asking.

For the 980...?

...and what were your circumstances...? Did your authorized dealer go belly up after your purchase...? Because I can tell you that's not suppost to happen.

My authorized dealer is alive and kicking. I called up URC and asked if I could get a copy of the programming software for the 980. I sent them a copy of my receipt and they sent me the information to get the software.

For the 980...?

...and what were your circumstances...? Did your authorized dealer go belly up after your purchase...? Because I can tell you that's not suppost to happen.

There aren't supposed to be remotes on ebay at lower than most dealer's cost, but there are. I know we disagree about some of URC's policies, but at some point you may just have to acknowledge that they are written in pencil.;)

My authorized dealer is alive and kicking. I called up URC and asked if I could get a copy of the programming software for the 980. I sent them a copy of my receipt and they sent me the information to get the software.

hmm... that's the whole story? They didn't ask about your dealer at all...?

There aren't supposed to be remotes on ebay at lower than most dealer's cost, but there are.

why not...? I could sell my 980 for under dealer cost...what's the big deal?

Different topic, for a different thread.

i received the Wasabi Power battery this week. i will post battery life when it's time to re-charge.

i received the Wasabi Power battery this week. i will post battery life when it's time to re-charge.

Thanks, I am very interested to see if it's any better. Here's hoping so!

Chris

Wasabi battery update.

lasted from Saturday @ 7:00am until Tuesday @ 3:00pm before needing a re-charge. basically 3 plus days. just slightly better than the OEM that last 2-3 days.

Wasabi battery update.

lasted from Saturday @ 7:00am until Tuesday @ 3:00pm before needing a re-charge. basically 3 plus days. just slightly better than the OEM that last 2-3 days.

That's not bad....The factory battery is a 1100mah whereas the Wasabi is 1400mah...that equates to a 21% increase in battery life, which it sounds like you got. Not a bad investment for 20 bucks.

Chris

The tilt sensor is generally the biggest drain on the 980 in my experience. The remote will turn on from the slightest movements, even when laying on the table someone walking by can trip the sensor. Turn the tilt sensor off, brightness down and the backlight on time to 10 seconds. I know 10 is kinda short, but 20 seconds is a long time for the lcd to stay on after just a volume change.

This is a Harmony forum unofficially. People here hate dealers.

The MX980 is a nice remote.

Hey, I'm a dealer...

We all have to make a living ya know!!!!:D

The tilt sensor is generally the biggest drain on the 980 in my experience. The remote will turn on from the slightest movements, even when laying on the table someone walking by can trip the sensor. Turn the tilt sensor off, brightness down and the backlight on time to 10 seconds. I know 10 is kinda short, but 20 seconds is a long time for the lcd to stay on after just a volume change.

thanks for the tip hoggy.

I have 2 of these remotes. I love them, I had a 2 systems installed by Tweeters 4 months ago, right after the install Tweeters goes belly up. I call URC told them I needed the software, and they sent me a copy of the MX-980 editor.

I'm an owner not an installer, I played around with it, but I will have a proffesional do the programming when needed. At least I was able to upload my current program in the editor.

So now I want to add a lutron switch.

1) Can I take my program and lutron model number to an installer and have them add the device at the leisure and I can download it later?

2) What would the average price you would expect to pay for this?

Thanks for your help

I purchased a basic Lutron dimmer which can be controlled by a remote and learned the codes from the supplied Lutron remote onto the MX-980. The dimmer cost about $35-$40.

Resurrecting this thread to see if anyone else has the same problem I just found with the newest firmware that the program downloaded to my remote.

Basically, I had a couple of date and time displays on various pages, that I had in custom font sizes (and bold), now under the new firmware the remote will only display them in a tiny, non-bold font (even though they still display correctly in the MX-980 editor software.

I tried wiping the remote completely and starting over, same result. Tried deleting the time/date displays in the software and re-adding them to the program, no luck. Just can't get the time and date displays to be bigger than about 2-point font on the remote. Very frustrating since it worked fine before it updated my firmware.

Hello all - I too was "lucky" enough to have gotten one of these through Tweeter right before they imploded. Ever since I've had it, the battery life has topped out at about 20 minutes before the yellow box comes up warning me to recharge the remote. I put it on the cradle every night, but then, when I go to use the system first thing in the morning, I get about 10 minutes of use before the battery goes yellow, about 20 before it is dead. I'm only using it to watch cable tv and rarely do anything for the 20 minutes other than adjust volume or change channels a few times. I contacted Universal about 2 months ago on their website, called them about 6 weeks ago, but never heard back from them, and doubt that I will. Has anyone gotten a replacement battery from them or do I need to go to the third party batteries mentioned above?

Thanks

Hello all - I too was "lucky" enough to have gotten one of these through Tweeter right before they imploded. Ever since I've had it, the battery life has topped out at about 20 minutes before the yellow box comes up warning me to recharge the remote. I put it on the cradle every night, but then, when I go to use the system first thing in the morning, I get about 10 minutes of use before the battery goes yellow, about 20 before it is dead. I'm only using it to watch cable tv and rarely do anything for the 20 minutes other than adjust volume or change channels a few times. I contacted Universal about 2 months ago on their website, called them about 6 weeks ago, but never heard back from them, and doubt that I will. Has anyone gotten a replacement battery from them or do I need to go to the third party batteries mentioned above?

Thanks
When I got mine, brand new a few months ago, it was similar to your situation. My remote's battery might have even been worse than yours. I bought it from a local audio video boutique. They also did the programming and other installs for me. I had no problem with them swapping out the battery for me. They are a Universal dealer. You might have to search for a dealer in your area.

After the battery replacement it now lasts a very long time. Long enough where as I don’t even bother to check the status. Most nights I remember to put it back in the cradle but it’s really not a concern.

You definitely need to swap out the battery. I never dealt with the company direct but I’d pursue calling them or working with a local dealer. Maybe others here dealt with them and can offer more advice.
Good luck.

I have been eyeballing this remote for a little while now.
The battery life issue is not what scares me... it is the seemingly lack of support/updates your are given once you buy it.
My dealer in Toledo Ohio told me that if I bought the remote, they would basically not allow me to have future software updates to the remote. So basically when I buy the remote, that is the update I am stuck with.

the software for the mx980 is updateable within the software, so if you get the software you are set

I My dealer in Toledo Ohio told me that if I bought the remote, they would basically not allow me to have future software updates to the remote.

Find a new dealer.

Find a new dealer.

I have...
But now that I have decided what remote is most intriguing me, I need to find out if I am actually capable of programming it!
Does anyone know if I can get access to the software to see how involved it is?

Thanks…

What do you really expect to get out of it? I love the msc-400 and use them with mx-900 and tx-1000 remotes. I think the bang for the buck far outways having a remote with viables in it. The only thing that I miss is changing lables on button from with-in the remote's program. Of course there are inellegant work arounds to this. My view all started becuase the cost of a tx-1000 and a msc-400 is so close to that of a mx-3000 and it is so much more usable. Also the logic programing on the msc-400 is MUCH better than that in the remote. Infact I would say in the last 1.5 years, every job I have done has had an msc-400, and only one had a remote with variables (mx-950 and mx-3000)

I programmed several macros with my msc-400 and made the remotes just simple event triggers. Programming the msc-400 and using the features such as rs-232, relay, input sensors is pretty simple. I wish the software supported more than just boolean variables, for example it would be great to read data from rs-232.

Hello all. New Guy here looking to get the best remote possible for what I am doing. I am new to the RF remotes but not new to Home Theaters. I just finished my living room/theater this week and I mounted all the components in the closet so I am in need of a killer remote. I have the Sony ES6400, HD CableBox and PS3 Bluray player.

Is this remote overkill for my simple needs? I also have Lutron lighting and love the fact i can control this from my MX 980?

So what will I need? The Base station obviously and the remote but I heard that I will need something else for the BT controlled PS3? Any help would be greatly appriciated. I can get base and remote for a slamming deal thats why I want to know if this is the best set up for me? Thanks in advance.

P.S. Holy back from the dead thread Batman!! LMAO!

Is this remote overkill for my simple needs?
This remote is certainly going to be able support your needs. One thing I would ask is are you planning to have it professionally programmed? If not, I would warn you that it is non-trivial to program this remote. It can definitely be done by a hobbyist but you should know what you are getting in to.

So what will I need? The Base station obviously and the remote but I heard that I will need something else for the BT controlled PS3?
To control your PS3 you will need some type of IR receiver for it. You can get a cheap IR to USB adapter but that will not allow you to turn it on and off.

I would recommend an IR to Bluetooth adapter like the Schmartz PS3IR or the Audio Authority BlueBeam. These will cost you a little more but provide much better control.

I biggest problem I have with the programming (other than having to tinker with it a weekend to get a feel for the software) is the lack of an undo feature. So save a LOT.

The remote is definitely worth the money and time investment to get it set up right, and it's fun to build your program over the life of your system, I'm always adding little features and macros to make life simpler, and I spent a lot of time playing around with paint shop making custom Xbox button graphics, Kuro backgrounds, etc. so that the "special" buttons various remotes feature actually show up that way on the soft screen.

Finally got it to the point where I can literally do anything I need in the entire theater with the one remote, there are no functions missing.

First of all thanks for the detailed responses. Second how do you program this remote anyway? I am computer savvy and I think I can do it with a little help. There isn't any preset codes to "punch in"?

I can get the unit & base for $425.00.

First of all thanks for the detailed responses. Second how do you program this remote anyway? I am computer savvy and I think I can do it with a little help. There isn't any preset codes to "punch in"?


All the programming is done in the software. The software can only be obtained through a dealer so make sure whoever you are buying the remote from will provide you the software.

You can look up your equipment in the database and add all your devices. That part is fairly straight forward. The trickier part is designing the LCD screens and setting up any advanced programming. It really depends how complicated you want to make it. Just setting it up to replace your OEM remotes is not that difficult.

ok COOL THANKS AGAIN gUYS. i THINK i AM GOING TO GET IT BUT i HAVE TO ASK THE gUY FOR THE SOFTWARE HUH?

That's the catch...
He may not include the software for that amount as he may want to do the programming for you.

It's up to the dealer, they don't have to give it to you.
Who are you buying from?

I bought my MX-980 and an MSC-400 from ebay. URC provided me with the SW once I faxed them proof of purchase and the serial of the devices.

/Anders

yeah but was that MX-980 editor or CCP?

MX-980 editor...

I'm hoping to get mine from a dealer that will include CCP.
Not that editor's bad...

If only programming the 980 the editor is fine.

With an MSC400/MX980 combo, the editors are a major PITA. I'm glad I got hold of the CCP.

I'm not sure I can recommend vendors here, but if anyone wants to know where I got mine for a good price (from an awesome guy and seller) and all the software (CCP) + expansion packs (graphics packs essentially), feel free to send me a PM. It's a legitimate business as well, not some "buddy".

Is that really the only reason one might want to get CCP?

With an MSC400/MX980 combo, the editors are a major PITA. I'm glad I got hold of the CCP.

Is that really the only reason one might want to get CCP?

The CCP is the software that is still being actively developed and updated.

good point, thanks.

The CCP is the software that is still being actively developed and updated.

...all the software (CCP) + expansion packs (graphics packs essentially), feel free to send me a PM. It's a legitimate business as well, not some "buddy".I was going to PM you but I figured I’d ask my question here in case it interested anyone else or others could chime in with answers too.

How difficult is the programming?
I have one MX-980i and one MX-900i. I purchased them form a local audio video boutique and they did the original programming. They said that this is the only way to do it. The company insists that the dealers handle it.

I had TWC at the time and have since switched over to FIOS. I haven’t had a chance to call my dealer and discuss the reprogramming. Is that a big deal? Can I just bring them in or is this something that will require a house visit?

I would love to be able to do all of the tweaking myself in my home. Perhaps I would have been better off with a “lesser” brand that is more user friendly regarding programming.

I do love them. However, the MX-980i battery is useless. I’m on my second one and it’s time for a new one.

TIA

How difficult is the programming?
It depends which remote and what you are trying to do. The MX-900 is quite a bit easier than the MX-980. The real challenge in either case is not that is hard to do but that it is not always obvious what to do. There is not a lot of information so learning how to make the changes requires both patience and some skill. I, personally, have not found it that hard. That being said, I have tried to walk others through it and they have never been able to figure it out.


I have one MX-980i and one MX-900i. I purchased them form a local audio video boutique and they did the original programming. They said that this is the only way to do it. The company insists that the dealers handle it.
That is not true with URC. They allow the dealers to decide if they will distribute the software and allow their end-users to program their own remotes.


I had TWC at the time and have since switched over to FIOS. I haven’t had a chance to call my dealer and discuss the reprogramming. Is that a big deal? Can I just bring them in or is this something that will require a house visit?
It is up to your dealer and their policies. It certainly does not require a house visit but they may insist on it to make sure that it is tested properly.

I would love to be able to do all of the tweaking myself in my home. Perhaps I would have been better off with a “lesser” brand that is more user friendly regarding programming.
It is certainly simpler to program something like a Harmony. It all depends on whether you need the more advanced features or the additional control.

However, the MX-980i battery is useless. I’m on my second one and it’s time for a new one.

TIA

If you're getting URC replacement batteries, don't bother with them. The MX-980 uses a standard camera battery, a Fuji NP60. You can get an Ultralast NP60 (do a search) for about $15 shipped. They have a 2 year warranty and I've been using one for at least that long in an MX-950.

OMG they mark-up replacement batteries? Sorry but that's sad....

**update**
I repent, I guess it could be worse, a least they don't lock us into proprietary batteries.

If you're getting URC replacement batteries, don't bother with them. The MX-980 uses a standard camera battery, a Fuji NP60. You can get an Ultralast NP60 (do a search) for about $15 shipped. They have a 2 year warranty and I've been using one for at least that long in an MX-950.

I have done a lot programming over the years (APL, Basic, Fortran, C++) and used other canned programs and I find the software to be below average at best. Nothing really seems intuitive. I have always gotten it to do what I want it to do but they should spend the money and reprogram it. As someone mentioned before, how can you not have an undo button. I also find the "upload" and "download" directions opposite from how I would have assigned them.

As someone mentioned before, how can you not have an undo button. I also find the "upload" and "download" directions opposite from how I would have assigned them.

I believe that both of these issues have been resolved with the CCP.

What is CCP? I am running the software that my dealer gave me with the remote.

They might have given you editor...
CCP comes standard with 880 up now, so long as dealer decides to give it to you, their choice.
CCP is their premier editor going forward.

What is CCP? I am running the software that my dealer gave me with the remote.

CCP is short for Complete Control Program. Is has basically replaced the mx-editors for the most recent few remotes. The mx-editors still work as well and appear to still be getting database updates. For a single remote/room solution the CCP does not provide a lot of additional functionality over the mx-editor. It does, however, present it in a slightly different way.

Thanks. I'll ask my dealer for it and see what it is like.

Does it change the format of the file or can one go back and forth between software packages?

Does it change the format of the file or can one go back and forth between software packages?

Its a new format.

You know have one file per house instead of one file per remote. It is actually nice if you have multiple devices.

I have the live update software, but I am having trouble getting the remote to control Windows 7 Media Center. None of the option in the osftware seem to work, not even the Vista Media Center option.

Has anyone run into this issue yet? Do you have a solution?

.

If you're getting URC replacement batteries, don't bother with them. The MX-980 uses a standard camera battery, a Fuji NP60. You can get an Ultralast NP60 (do a search) for about $15 shipped. They have a 2 year warranty and I've been using one for at least that long in an MX-950.Thanks, I did that right after you posted this and it is working beautifully. :)

I think the one mistake I made before was that I always kept the remote in the charging cradle causing an erratic charging routine. Maybe these batteries have a memory (?) and need to be run down before recharging for maximum life. (?) The only time it was out was during a few hours at time while utilizing my system.

Currently I’ve used the remote for two days without putting it back in the charging cradle.

Another thing to note, my OEM battery was a 1000m/Ah while this new one is a 1200.
I couldn’t find a 1000 version only 750 or 1200.

Thanks again, I’m still going to contact my dealer, since this is now my third battery in less than a year, however, I have high hopes for this new one.:cool:

I have the live update software, but I am having trouble getting the remote to control Windows 7 Media Center. None of the option in the osftware seem to work, not even the Vista Media Center option.

Has anyone run into this issue yet? Do you have a solution?

What IR reciever are you using? There are a couple of them(VRC-1100) floating around that are packaged with the Vista MCE remote that do not work with the standard IR commands. I had to manually record each ir code from the source remote to get them to work with the IR reciever.

I am using the MX-980 editor and I have 2 questions:

1 - I replaced my Panasonic BD-50 with an Oppo BDP-83. Is there any way to quickly replace the programmed Pana pages on the MX-980 with the Oppo codes?

2 - How do I update the database with all the preprogrammed codes? The BDP-83 isn't in there but I am sure the codes are now available.

2 - How do I update the database with all the preprogrammed codes? The BDP-83 isn't in there but I am sure the codes are now available.
Under the communications menu there should be a "live update" option. If you are on Vista or Windows 7 you may need to run the editor as administrator to be able to update.

Your Oppo is code 341 under DVD

Thanks, I did that right after you posted this and it is working beautifully. :)

I think the one mistake I made before was that I always kept the remote in the charging cradle causing an erratic charging routine. Maybe these batteries have a memory (?) and need to be run down before recharging for maximum life. (?) The only time it was out was during a few hours at time while utilizing my system.

Currently I’ve used the remote for two days without putting it back in the charging cradle.

Another thing to note, my OEM battery was a 1000m/Ah while this new one is a 1200.
I couldn’t find a 1000 version only 750 or 1200.


The stock URC batteries are not that good. The replacement one should last a lot longer. I always leave my remote on the charging cradle and have gone years with a replacement battery.

When replacing the battery, it's okay if the replacement has a higher mAH rating than the original. You just don't want to use one with a lower rating (although it will still work).

I am using the MX-980 editor and I have 2 questions:

1 - I replaced my Panasonic BD-50 with an Oppo BDP-83. Is there any way to quickly replace the programmed Pana pages on the MX-980 with the Oppo codes?

2 - How do I update the database with all the preprogrammed codes? The BDP-83 isn't in there but I am sure the codes are now available.

The BDP-83 is in the current database. Unless you're using one of the alternate IR codes for the BDP-83, the code that's in there (mentioned by dalto) will work.

My MX-980 is two years old, still has the original URC battery, and with daily use it still holds a charge for 2 or 3 days. I guess I got lucky with a good battery.

My MX-980 is two years old, still has the original URC battery, and with daily use it still holds a charge for 2 or 3 days. I guess I got lucky with a good battery.

I always kept mine on the charger so I was fine for about 7 months or so by then the original battery would not hold a charge long enough to download a program into it. I put in a new battery from Radio Shack and it is way better than the stock battery for me. I don't blame URC, lots of companies were having problems with bad batteries for awhile.

The BDP-83 is in the current database. Unless you're using one of the alternate IR codes for the BDP-83, the code that's in there (mentioned by dalto) will work.

I found it via Live Update. Is there any quick way to replace all the Panasonic codes (285) with the Oppo codes (341) instead of editing each button individually?

I found it via Live Update. Is there any quick way to replace all the Panasonic codes (285) with the Oppo codes (341) instead of editing each button individually?

Sure. Go into the IR database and just assign the Oppo codes over your existing Panasonic device and all the commands will be replaced and renamed.

Sure. Go into the IR database and just assign the Oppo codes over your existing Panasonic device and all the commands will be replaced and renamed.

Initially I was using a MX980. And now that I added on a MSC-400 I was wondering if there is anyway to copy macros you made in MX90 to the MSC-400?

Anyone out their with a MX-980 and a Samsung Blu-ray player?

The URC database does not appear to list a Bonusview button for any of the Samsung Blu-ray players (I have the BD-P1500)

Anyone out their with a MX-980 and a Samsung Blu-ray player?

The URC database does not appear to list a Bonusview button for any of the Samsung Blu-ray players (I have the BD-P1500)

For some buttons you may have to learn them if they aren't in the db.

For some buttons you may have to learn them if they aren't in the db.

Had tried that in past, and althou it indicated it was succesful did not work. Not a big issue for me as I rarely use the so called Bonus material and from what I've noticed very few discs get released with Bonusview materials (usually BD Live)

i have searched but can not find an answer..

After i program my MX-980 with CCP the default screen on the rermote after reboot is Listen..

How do i change the default to be the Watch after reboot


Thanks for the help

Does it really matter? Afterall how often you actually reboot it? Mine only after the program downloads.

Once its rebooted just switch to Watch and it will stay on the last page used.

Does it really matter? Afterall how often you actually reboot it? Mine only after the program downloads.

Once its rebooted just switch to Watch and it will stay on the last page used.

I guess if it really matters you can:

Remove the Watch and Listen button covers.
Put the Watch button where the Listen button was and the Listen button where the Watch button was.
Rename the buttons in your software and move the pages from the old button to the new one.

Or hit Watch after it reboots.

Hi,
I just got a copy of the mx-980 editing software from my dealer after letting them do the initial programming a couple of years ago. Where do I get a data cable to connect my mx-980 to my PC?
Thanks!

Hi,
I just got a copy of the mx-980 editing software from my dealer after letting them do the initial programming a couple of years ago. Where do I get a data cable to connect my mx-980 to my PC?
Thanks!

You just need a run of the mill USB cable

Oh duh - thanks. I was looking at the square plug above the battery and totally missed the USB.

Anyone know when URC updates their remote codes for the Sony EX700 series of televisions?

I'm a newbie to the 980, but programmed the 950 with little difficulty. Just have a couple of quetions on the current remote. I have set up most everything and it works fine with a few exceptions. I now want to program the Sattelite favorite buttons. ie ESPN, Fox, etc. Two things:

- How do I get an image from the sample gallery or the sample config into my DirecTV set-up. In my case I inadvertantly erased ESPN 2, so I want replace it but I've been unable to cut/paste. Nor can I drag and drop because they are in 2 differant files.

- Secondly- how do I then program it to respond to the correct channel when I depress it. For example ESPN is channel 206. Do I tell it that in the macro, or do I do a learn command, etc?

These are probably pretty remedial for you professionals. Unfortunately, I'm not a programmer by trade, so be easy on my. :) And Thanks

BTW: I realize this is an old thread and may not be monitored by anyone. If I don't hear from anyone, I'll post a new one.

In CCP, on the right hand side upper window select the Image Gallery tab, then click the "..." in the upper right of the Image Gallery window. Select Favorite Logos / TV Channels. In there is ESPN 2 HD L(eft), ESPN 2 HD R(ight), and then the non-HD versions.

To program a favorite you need to simply make a macro that uses the alias for your TV device's 2 then 0 then 6 followed by Enter. Maybe throw a delay in there if needed. There is no magic involved to create a favorite for these or any remote.

I believe CCP stands for Complete Control program. I am using MX-Editor and do not have access to CCP. Can you advise how to do in Editor or can I get access to CCP.

Also in Editor, I have an image gallery, but Favorites are not in there. It is however in the Galleries folder. I don't know how to gewt those images into the Image Gallery. From there I can see i is a simple drag/drop.

hi all,

I am interested in purchasing the mx-980, can anyone enlighten me on where i can get it WITH the updateable software so I can program. and how much would it cost around? I am located in Canada, but the remote can ship to a warehouse in US that I can pick up..

surfremotecontrol.com

hi all,

I am interested in purchasing the mx-980.

You might want to wait for the MX-1200. I think it will blow the 980 away once it comes out.

Hi all,

i have mx980 and ccp and want to program it. I am having some issues with the image logo. When i want to add the icons to the remote control, typically i go to the right side and i browse to the image and then to tv channel icons. When i scroll down it goes only till the letter C and i can't go any further down. Please help me.

Thanks in advance

General question for the experienced programmers here. I just got a mx-980 with the ccp. I have been playing with the program some trying to learn the nuances and flow and I'm about ready to try and actually load to the remote. My question is, is there a menu function in CCP that will allow me to completely wipe all programming off the remote if I need to start fresh? I have a feeling the macros are going to give me a challenge!

Just start a new file in CCP and upload it to the remote. That will "wipe" it clean.

If you get basic programming for your devices in CCP then maybe save that file and make a copy. Open the copy and use it to do your experimenting. If you screw up you can just upload the previous copy of your programming to get back to a known working state. This isn't like a Harmony where you only get the one current configuration with no undo or revert options.

Awesome. Thanks!

When setting up macros, how an I program the macro to skip the power on step for a device that is a toggle on/off, such as my Samsung tv, so that it will skip over the step if the device is already on? For example, going from the tv function to watch a blu-ray when the tv is already on? Would I use an if/then or a variable and how would that macro look?

You would use both a variable and if/else.

TV Power On Command
TV_Power=True

When turning off the TV

TV Power Off Command
TV_Power=False

When using in macros

If TV_Power=False
TV Power On
TV_Power=True
Else
(Nothing)

What I do is on the last page of each device I create the power ON/OFF with variable buttons. Then when I'm making the macros I just alias those buttons instead of recreating them each time.

Also, you should avoid using actual command in your activities. The activities should be a combination of punch-thru and aliased commands. The actual IR command should only be used in one location (device pages). If you don't alias to those commands you will have a hell of a time making changes.

Ok, new CCP question. For my Marantz receiver, the IR database has about 5 separate code sets for the receiver. How can I add multiple code sets to the same device? For example, I have the main set, but I also want the audyssey and USB/iPod set as well. When I choose one and save, it overwrites the other codes leaving me with a incomplete code set.

Ok, new CCP question. For my Marantz receiver, the IR database has about 5 separate code sets for the receiver. How can I add multiple code sets to the same device? For example, I have the main set, but I also want the audyssey and USB/iPod set as well. When I choose one and save, it overwrites the other codes leaving me with a incomplete code set.

Create 5 different devices--AVR1, AVR2, AVR3, etc. (Or name them according to which commands each codeset contains--AVR Inputs, AVR iPod, AVR Sat Radio, etc). Put one of the 5 codesets into each different device. If you want to then combine all the different pages of codes into one device, you can drag and drop the pages from the other 4 "devices" into the main codeset for the receiver.

Ok, I know this is both a stupid and easily solved question, but I cannot figure out how to do it for the life of me. How do I change the background on the display without changing programming? I picked a really cheesy looking wallpaper and would really like to put something else in there. If I can put one of our family photos as a background with clear buttons/text only over the top of it, that would be awesome! Thanks to everyone for the tips so far!

If you can click on the background in CCP then simply select the wallpaper and hit the delete key. Then browse to your wallpaper in Image Gallery and drag it to the background.

If you can't click on the background then right click on one of the button images and hit Send to Back. Now you will be able to click it. Once you drag over the new background right click on it and Send to Back.