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Failure to simplify
Submitted by altj on Tue, 08/12/2008 - 10:54
A while back, we purchased an all-in-one remote to simplify the use of our TV/VCR/DVD/PVR/Sound system. I thought it was great. Yesterday, I was greeted by this paper on our stove with instructions for our babysitter.
So it turns out instead of reducing the complexity of our system, I now have a vessel of concentrated complexity in the form of a remote. Does anyone have any suggestions on how to simplify such a system for the non-geek?
I say if you cant figure out
I say if you cant figure out the remote on your own, you shouldn't be watching TV! Leave your baby sitter a book!
Check out Logitech's Harmony
Check out Logitech's Harmony remotes -- http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm/remotes/universal_remotes/. You can pre-program functions/activities, whereby pressing the "Watch DVD" button turns the TV on, switches to the correct input, turns the receiver on, switches to the correct, input, etc.
All of the programming is done on your computer, either with the Harmony software, or on the Harmony website. It takes a little bit of up-front effort to get things (button placement & functionality) setup how you want them, generally with some trial and error the first few times while you figure things out, but the end-result is far, far better than the alternative.
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