TheaterTouch: Have you been wanting to use a few of the hex codes available in the File Area here on Remote Central with your new (or soon to arrive) TheaterTouch T2 remote control? Well, there's a hidden feature in the PC software that allows for exactly that. Although unsupported at this time, here's how it can be accessed:

1. Open the IR Library Manager.
   
2. Open the Command Library (.cml) that you wish to add the new remote to.
   
3. Create a new remote in the open Command Library by clicking the "New" button on the upper right hand side of the Edit View dialog box.
   
4. Enter the manufacturer’s name, type of equipment and model number in the appropriate fields. However, DO NOT enter any information in the function fields!
   
5. Click "OK" to close.
   
6. Press "F12" to open the Hex code entry window.
   
7. You can paste or type the Hex code command string into the field.
   
8. Enter the function name in the appropriate field.
   
9. Click "Add Code" to add the command to the remote file.
   
10. Click "Clear" to clear the fields of the last Hex code and make way to add another Hex code.
    
11. Repeat steps 7, 8 and 9 for each command you wish to convert.
    
12. Click "Close" to close the Hex code entry window.

It's expected that this feature will be fully integrated into the next release of the TheaterTouch Designer software package.
[Talk about the TheaterTouch T2...]

CES 2000: Click to enlarge.

Universal Electronics Mosaic: Initially reported on during CES 2000, Universal Electronic Inc.'s much anticipated Mosaic touchscreen remote is finally coming close to reality. The Mosaic remote features a large 4.6" diagonal, blue electroluminescent backlit display capable of displaying 160x240 pixels. A built-in stylus allows for accurate use without adding fingerprints to the touchscreen. All configuration of the Mosaic is accomplished on the remote -- such as adding, moving or deleting buttons. It's capable of controlling 15 devices with up to 38 buttons each, plus 21 macros with up to 32 commands each. A special "Home Theater" mode provides the most frequently used sections of several components in one area.

Users receive direct access to the huge UEI database of pre-programmed infrared codes, or can learn specific signals if required. As a first in this catagory, the Mosaic includes an electromagnetic coil which can be used for adding unsupported remotes through the Internet from UEI's web site. Users can download .WAV files which are played through their computer's speakers. By holding the back of the remote to the speaker, it's possible to transfer these codes. For future upgrades, a direct cable connection is available to flash upgrade the remote's firmware. It's expected that special PC software will be released at a later date to allow configuration of a remote via a Windows-compatible computer.

Although the remote will initially use alkaline AA batteries, a future upgrade will include a NiMH rechargeable battery pack and docking cradle for recharging without removing the battery. Now expected to be officially released during July of this year, the Mosaic will be carried in the retail channel under the One For All brand name and is planned to be targeted to the average consumer with an economical price tag. Remote Central will review this remote as soon as it is available.
[Talk about the UEI Mosaic...]

A little different update: Less than 48 hours after taking the baby robin photograph below, all four have grown up enough to leave the nest. Amazinging, only a few hours after the robins vacated, a new tenant -- a blackbird -- took up residence in a different part of the bush. Will I ever get to prune it this year?