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Roomie Remote - Page 12

post #331 of 968
3/7/12 at 4:35pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by DGF View Post

Bill - I just cut that Makita code segment out of my RoomieCodes file; there was other header/footer code that I didn't include, so if you just did a C&P into the file then I'm sure it won't work.

The way I understand the RoomieCode file process to work is that it has to contain all of your supplemental (i.e. non-Roomie provided) device information: you have to always include everything that is being added above and beyond the Roomie default devices, each time you do an upload. So in my case, I have an older model Lexicon pre-amp that isn't included in the IR codes supplied by Roomie - whenever I update my Makita code (for example), I have to include the Lexicon code in the file I submit to DropBox.

The way I first added in a new device was to open the RoomieCode file that originally came from Roomie, and modify the one device they provide as an example (an XBox IIRC) - as I subsequently add additional devices, I just copy/paste an existing device lower down to create a duplicate entry, and then I edit the keys appropriately - this leaves the required header/footer info intact. [But I think that this is what you were proposing to do anyway]

I haven't experienced any of the failures or need to reboot that you mentioned - all works as advertized. [There was a version update to Roomie this morning that, among other items, referenced a bug fix for DropBox - however, it has always worked without a problem for me]

As an aside, in the plist code I shared, I use "Open", "Close" and "Halt" labels for the commands - I choose Halt instead of Stop because Roomie defaults to displaying the buttons in alphabetical order: Using 'Halt' positions the "cease and desist" button in the middle of the other two, which seems more intuitive to me. [There has been some discussion on the forum today relating to changing the order of remote buttons, so I'll see if there is a more flexible way of doing this once I've had chance to digest what was said - definitely still lots for me to learn]

Dave

Yes, I began to understand that something was missing. I will start from scratch again after taking a break. When you are listing commands for more than one device, exactly where do you begin with the second device? I'm sure I'm messing up the formatting since I don't understand any of it and am just blindly trying to copy the template.
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post #332 of 968
3/7/12 at 8:41pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by Sodbuster View Post

Yes, I began to understand that something was missing. I will start from scratch again after taking a break. When you are listing commands for more than one device, exactly where do you begin with the second device? I'm sure I'm messing up the formatting since I don't understand any of it and am just blindly trying to copy the template.

Hey Bill - I know you said you're 'regrouping', but while I think of it, here are a few rambling thoughts:

The file must begin with a "header" - mine uses the original code:






The code segment I posted previously contains the required elements for one individual device (but not the header or footer). If you open the original RoomieCode file from Roomie you should be able to see a similarly structured segment for an Xbox. These device code segments (starting with "" followed by the device specific keys/codes and ending with "") are the building blocks that allow new devices to be added.

The "footer" is just two lines of code:




If the structure still isn't clear, I'll PM you my RoomieCode file (it's a bit too long to inflict on other readers of this thread).

At risk of sounding like a broken record, I feel that this is yet another area where the documentation from the Roomie team is lacking - it surely wouldn't have over-taxed them to have provided a sample RoomieCode file that included more than a single device.

Dave
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post #333 of 968
3/8/12 at 2:23am
Quote:
Originally Posted by moreilly View Post


Hey Geordie,
Glad I could help. To rearrange the button order, when editing the remote, you can touch where the three horizontal bars are and drag that button higher or lower in the list. For easier to read text all I can say is making them all capital letters (ie. instead of Play, make it PLAY).
Hope this helps.

Yeah I know how to shift buttons within a 'group' of buttons but that's not really helpful IMO. It doesn't enable you to move the buttons anywhere on the page, only within the same group, the result of which is no different to just renaming and reassigning buttons within a group anyway.

For example I rarely use the number pad on my tv remote but I would like it on the page so I want it at the bottom of the page and would occasionally scroll to it, and have the often used buttons above it and more accessible But I can't move it there, its stuck higher up the page and i either have to have it there or not have it at all. That's just one example.

I've also tried using caps on buttons for legibility and it works for very short words. If the text 'word wrapped' it would work for most labels I think, but it doesn't wrap, so you end up with tiny text still.

It's probably just because I have used other apps that allow complete freedom with these things that I find Roomie too restrictive.

Thanks again for the suggestions.
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post #334 of 968
3/8/12 at 3:34am
Geordie,
on my remote setup I have the number pad at the bottom. I added all the buttons below the number pad to the top section of the remote, I then deleted all the buttons below the number pad. This then leaves the setup as you descriped you wanted.
It's a bit fiddely and would be a whole lot easier just to be able to move the buttons on the screen (just like an ipad does now with the apps when you hold an app icon down for a couple of seconds).
I guess that's the price you pay for an easy to use system, loosing some customisation.
For complete customisation, irule is a great choice, it just takes forever to configure and setup.
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post #335 of 968
3/8/12 at 12:19pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by DGF View Post

Hey Bill - I know you said you're 'regrouping', but while I think of it, here are a few rambling thoughts:

The file must begin with a "header" - mine uses the original code:






The code segment I posted previously contains the required elements for one individual device (but not the header or footer). If you open the original RoomieCode file from Roomie you should be able to see a similarly structured segment for an Xbox. These device code segments (starting with "" followed by the device specific keys/codes and ending with "") are the building blocks that allow new devices to be added.

The "footer" is just two lines of code:




If the structure still isn't clear, I'll PM you my RoomieCode file (it's a bit too long to inflict on other readers of this thread).

At risk of sounding like a broken record, I feel that this is yet another area where the documentation from the Roomie team is lacking - it surely wouldn't have over-taxed them to have provided a sample RoomieCode file that included more than a single device.

Dave

Everyone reading my posts will be pleased to see the end, thanks to all the help I have received from Dave. The Roomie helpdesk sent me a RoomieCodes.plist file with the commands for my AVP inputs as an auxiliary device. So I used this as a template, and then cut/pasted Dave's commands for his drapes. After restoring from Dropbox, I was able to make two auxiliary devices appear in Roomie, one for inputs and one for drapes....hurray!
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post #336 of 968
3/8/12 at 8:59pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by Sodbuster View Post

Everyone reading my posts will be pleased to see the end, thanks to all the help I have received from Dave. The Roomie helpdesk sent me a RoomieCodes.plist file with the commands for my AVP inputs as an auxiliary device. So I used this as a template, and then cut/pasted Dave's commands for his drapes. After restoring from Dropbox, I was able to make two auxiliary devices appear in Roomie, one for inputs and one for drapes....hurray!

You have done well grasshopper!

It may well be my simplistic mind, but there's something really satisfying about controlling large objects, like drapes, with something as small as the iPod.

Glad it all worked out.

D
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post #337 of 968
3/9/12 at 1:14pm
Made the last leap toay when I learned that I could use a second X10 543 device on a different house code to turn my power amps on and off. The commands are sent to port 2 of the wf2ir GC block, while the commands for lights go to port 3 and the blaster. The amp power commands are carried out by X10 appliance modules.

For many years I've had to go to each amp to turn it on and off. There are four amps, each near the speaker(s) it powers...this made for short speaker leads, but long runs of coax.

After the fact, I am a bit embarrassed to have been so slow to understand how to configure Roomie. I'm very pleased with the result...maybe my wife will feel comfortable enough to enjoy the home theater now. It was something of a trial even with a Pronto remote.
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post #338 of 968
3/10/12 at 9:40am
Is there a way to lock down the Roomie configuration once you set it up? How do I prevent the curious from messing with the edit buttons?
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post #339 of 968
3/10/12 at 9:35pm
I created my setup on an iPad and have tried to copy it to an iPhone by backing up to Dropbox and restoring to the iPhone. After restoring I see the room name but pressing it does not bring up any activities and in fact does nothing. What am I missing in trying to copy the configuration to the iPhone?
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post #340 of 968
3/12/12 at 7:18am
Link to dropbox on your ipad. Backup to dropbox. Link to dropbox on you iphone and restore to iphone. Best I could suggest being at work. Good luck!
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post #341 of 968
3/15/12 at 11:49am
So what seems the prospect for improving IP control over the new Apple TV?

Reading the FAQ it seems depressing to me that Apple has locked it down tightly. I am not intending to use IR controls if possible.
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post #342 of 968
3/15/12 at 12:50pm
Probably zero from Apple. Firecore is working on it for ATVFlash(black)
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post #343 of 968
3/15/12 at 3:21pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by khiser View Post

Probably zero from Apple. Firecore is working on it for ATVFlash(black)

Huh? Do you mean I could load this app on an ATV3, and that would open it up to control it through Roomie?

Looks like this would allow me to play my archive of MKV files also which would be useful. Thanks for the pointer.
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post #344 of 968
3/16/12 at 7:49pm
Just beginning to like Roomie, but every now and then the iPad freezes and seems to be dead...this can last 20-30 seconds. Never actually timed it, so just guessing, but it seems forever. There must not be communication with the LAN during this period as there are no lights flashing from the IR emitters while Roomie is frozen. Somehow I doubt it is the app, but an iPod mis-firing...original iPad being used.
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post #345 of 968
3/17/12 at 4:38am
Quote:
Originally Posted by Sodbuster View Post

Just beginning to like Roomie, but every now and then the iPad freezes and seems to be dead...this can last 20-30 seconds. Never actually timed it, so just guessing, but it seems forever. There must not be communication with the LAN during this period as there are no lights flashing from the IR emitters while Roomie is frozen. Somehow I doubt it is the app, but an iPod mis-firing...original iPad being used.

I've been reading across the forums about people having trouble with thei iPad 1 and apps that use ip control with the newer iOS, I have not had any trouble with my iPad 2. Good luck.
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post #346 of 968
3/17/12 at 4:56am
Quote:
Originally Posted by Sodbuster View Post

Just beginning to like Roomie, but every now and then the iPad freezes and seems to be dead...this can last 20-30 seconds. Never actually timed it, so just guessing, but it seems forever. There must not be communication with the LAN during this period as there are no lights flashing from the IR emitters while Roomie is frozen. Somehow I doubt it is the app, but an iPod mis-firing...original iPad being used.

What version of IOS?

I am using the latest on my ipad 1 which is V5.1 relaased a couple of days ago and so far no problems such as yours.

You might try that.

Rew
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post #347 of 968
3/17/12 at 7:57am
Quote:
Originally Posted by Sodbuster View Post

Just beginning to like Roomie, but every now and then the iPad freezes and seems to be dead...this can last 20-30 seconds. Never actually timed it, so just guessing, but it seems forever. There must not be communication with the LAN during this period as there are no lights flashing from the IR emitters while Roomie is frozen. Somehow I doubt it is the app, but an iPod mis-firing...original iPad being used.

What devices are you using ? And what are they doing when the iPad freezes???
Reason I ask is that some devices when playing net music or iPod stuff etc send out lots of data, album covers etc that can stall the remote apps using feedback.
Have not seen this with Roomie but had major issues with iRule and my Onkyo receiver because of this
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post #348 of 968
3/17/12 at 3:57pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by Rew452 View Post


What version of IOS?

I am using the latest on my ipad 1 which is V5.1 relaased a couple of days ago and so far no problems such as yours.

You might try that.

Rew

I just loaded v 5.1 recently, but haven't been usingRoomie long enough to know if this made the difference. I don't want any excuses to spend money on a new iPad!
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post #349 of 968
3/17/12 at 6:06pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by Sodbuster View Post

I don't want any excuses to spend money on a new iPad!

Are you sure :-)
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post #350 of 968
3/18/12 at 11:29am
just an FYI, the 1.4 release will have a long list on enhancements and fixes:

Multipanning Personalized Guide: Program discovery has never been more powerful. The new personalized guide enhanced for Retina iPad displays includes detailed show information, next showing schedules, credits, and informative biography sections on cast and crew.
HD Guide Pack: New in-app purchase expands the guide to full-screen on iPad screens and allows a full two weeks of guide tracking!
Centralized Guide: Guide setup and personalization has been redesigned and made much simpler.
Retina-enhanced iPad Interface: Full support for 3rd generation iPad graphics has been added across the entire app!
iPad Panning Interface: XXX

New Devices:
Samsung Blu-ray IP Control: Auto-discovery and control of Samsung Blu-ray players.
Google TV IP Control: [Beta: Auto discovery is enabled, but control is not available in this build. This feature may not make 1.4.0.]
See the Roomie website for supported models above.

Improvements:
Prevent Editing: New option in Settings allows lock down of all Editing throughout Roomie to prevent unintended configuration changes.
Collect Diagnostics: New in Settings allows users to collect diagnostics about their components to send to support to aid in addition of new components and diagnosing issues with existing components.
Virtual Remotes on iPad size screens are no longer left-aligned in any orientation.
Access to compatibility and video tutorials is now provided inside the Settings panel.
Boxee, Plex, and XBMC control now allows explicit volume control directly via IP to the player.
Marantz SR9600/SR5001 receivers and similar models from the era prior to the Denon protocol merge are now supported for feedback of Power, Volume, Mute, Input, and Mode.

Fixes:
Fixed input of some ISY99 device IDs.
Samsung TVs and Blu-ray Players may now be added via Manual IP in the event auto-discovery does not find them.
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post #351 of 968
3/18/12 at 11:38am
I also have iRule, but the support on this app is second to none. if anyone is having trouble, just email the support team. I have never experienced such a proactive support team, as they have gone above and beyond what is expected to fix any issues I was having. I would recommend this app to everyone.
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post #352 of 968
3/18/12 at 1:26pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by jbn008 View Post

just an FYI, the 1.4 release ...

Major drool ! Those guide features sound just what floats my boat. I joined the forum to ask... please WHEN ??
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post #353 of 968
3/19/12 at 11:46am
I like Roomie better the more I tweak it, and tweaking is so easy since it is done within the app. Since control in my configuration is all IR, with no feedback as to power status, I have decided to initially power up all source components and the power amps with a single button push. Then by selecting inputs on the AVP the souce is changed without a lot of confusing power toggles, and System Off nicely shuts it all down. I decided not to include the projector in my System On macro because I often use audio only media. Since the damping characteristics of the room improve with the drapes covering the screen, opening or closing the drapes is part of the source macros, as is the lighting. This configuration did not evolve overnight, and I'm sure there is room for improvement...but any change is easy to implement. I do envy those who can use IP or serial control and avoid IR completely, but that won't work for me.
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post #354 of 968
3/21/12 at 10:45pm
I'm attempting to control J River Media Centre using Roomie and would like to use HTTP to issue commands to J River over my network. I'm assuming I would have to use a modified Roomiecodes file and add the commands to that and create a custom device. Has anyone here attempted anything like this? I've successfully added some custom IR codes using a Roomiecodes file...but I'm not sure where to start using HTTP commands. I've downloaded the Roomie custom commands DDK from their site as well. I'd appreciate any advice anyone can offer.

An example of one of the HTTP commands would be:

Quote:


localhost:52199/MCWS/v1/Playback/PlayPause?Zone=-1&ZoneType=ID

This would issue a play/pause command to zone 1.
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post #355 of 968
3/22/12 at 12:33am
Never mind....it appears I've figured it out....

If anyone else needs help with J River integration let me know!


Quote:
Originally Posted by MasterC77 View Post

I'm attempting to control J River Media Centre using Roomie and would like to use HTTP to issue commands to J River over my network. I'm assuming I would have to use a modified Roomiecodes file and add the commands to that and create a custom device. Has anyone here attempted anything like this? I've successfully added some custom IR codes using a Roomiecodes file...but I'm not sure where to start using HTTP commands. I've downloaded the Roomie custom commands DDK from their site as well. I'd appreciate any advice anyone can offer.

An example of one of the HTTP commands would be:


This would issue a play/pause command to zone 1.
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post #356 of 968
3/22/12 at 8:14am
Quote:
Originally Posted by MasterC77 View Post

Never mind....it appears I've figured it out....

If anyone else needs help with J River integration let me know!

I have a slightly outdated J River license and always perceived them to offer well-thought-out solutions, so I'd be interested to hear your approach and opinions on the outcome.

Did you look at any other options for tighter music integration with Roomie?
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post #357 of 968
3/22/12 at 9:57am
Quote:
Originally Posted by DGF View Post

I have a slightly outdated J River license and always perceived them to offer well-thought-out solutions, so I'd be interested to hear your approach and opinions on the outcome.

Did you look at any other options for tighter music integration with Roomie?

I've been using J River for many years now, and I find it to be by far the best media centre/program out there. If you are at all serious about getting the best SQ possible from your music, this is it.

I have not looked at other solutions as I am perfectly happy with J River. The amount of control that you can have over it using HTTP commands via the Webservice controls is staggering. My next step would be to integrate some sort of two way feedback, but I'm not sure that's possible at this time...

What is your setup for music playback using Roomie?
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post #358 of 968
3/22/12 at 10:45am
Quote:
Originally Posted by MasterC77 View Post


What is your setup for music playback using Roomie?

I have my Sonos App right next to my Roomie App. Luckily, Sonos also controls volume. I'm very pleased with it.
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post #359 of 968
3/22/12 at 1:05pm
I do have to ask 1 question. Can anybody get the .VOLUME SET activity control to work? I've tried many times, but the activity doesn't change the volume in any way. When you choose .VOLUME SET, the bottom volume says "(null).(null)". I have deleted the above and inputed -50 and it shows (-50.0) when I''m done. Is this wrong? Is there something I'm missing?

Thanks
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post #360 of 968
3/22/12 at 5:44pm
Hi Guys

Purchased Roomie and a iTach Ethernet to IR this week, still waiting for the iTach to arrive.

Anyhow in the meantime I have been setting up some of my equipment that I can control over the LAN.

Not sure if this question has already been asked but does Roomie support Wake on Lan. Particularly interested in being able to wake my Mac Mini, which runs XBMC.

BTW, was very interested in the comments above about serial control of Epson projectors so might need to invest in the iTach to serial soon. I have the Epson 8700UB.
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