Need an inexpensive learning remote to use with Windows media center

What price is inexpensive? $20 or $2?

I prefer JP1 remotes like the $9 RCA RCRP05BR because you can easily add nearly any command to any button without learning (although it can learn as well). You can also program it from a PC or Mac like harmony if you buy/build an interface cable. The MCE codes on that remote are CBL 1272, DVD 1972 and a few others (search THIS list for Windows MCE protocol to see them all). The RCA also has the advantage of full macro (activity) functionality, device specific volume punch thru, device specific macros, multi macros, favorites and shifted functions (effectively doubling the number of buttons). With a cable you get even more functionality like unlimited devices, conditional branching, 5 functions per button, unlimited macro steps, state tracking and more. It's really an incredibly powerful remote for the money, more powerful than many remotes costing hundreds of dollars.

The URC WR7 is learning and has punch-through for TV volume and some basic macro support. $20...

mdavej,

Very interesting post indeed. I checked the RCA RCRP05BR and it has the button placement I'm looking for. We just got a Cisco ISB7050 whole house DVR. Since 99% of what I watch is recorded on the DVR, I'm constantly using the VCR controls to skip commercials or pausing to get a snack or answer the phone. So I want the VCR controls up near the front of the remote where they are easy to press, just like how the RCRP05BR has them.

The problem I'm facing is that I need to view captions once in a while, but the captions in the Cisco DVR is buried 20 button presses in the menu. (yes, 20 steps, I counted them.) So a macro needs to have 21 steps to turn on captions (20 to turn on + exit). It also needs 21 steps to turn off captions. Can the RCRP05BR hold 21 steps per macro via manual programming?

Or do I need to buy a JP1 interface cable to get 21 steps per macro? If so, where can I buy one that's a safe seller?
And where do I download the software that can run on a Windows 7 PC?

Thanks,
Skylark

Macros are 15 steps without a cable, unlimited with a cable.

See this post for you other questions:
http://www.thegreenbutton.tv/forums/viewtopic.php?p=48820#p48820

I checked out the links and have a few questions:

1. Once a FTDI FT232RL USB to Serial adapter cable is converted to a JP1 cable, will Windows 7 automatically load the driver for it on boot up?

2. Is this the software you recommend: RemoteMaster.v2.02.zip (1.8 MB).

3. Assuming items 1 & 2 above are correct, when I install and run "RemoteMaster", will I then be able to do all of the changes to the RCA remote you recommend? Or will I have to download some additional files?

Thanks for your help,
Skylark

1. I personally haven't used that particular cable, but FTDI drivers are typically built in, IR at least easily downloadable. I've never had to download a driver for my win7 systems.

2. Yes

3. You also need RDF files, Maps and Images and the Extender program for the RCA.

Check out the wiki in my signature and ask your remaining questions at hifi-remote when all the JP1 experts and developers hang out.

Thanks for your help. I'll follow your advice.
Skylark