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...Continued from Page 8.
Final tweaking.
There are several final setup options to help users customize their remote or recover from errors. First, devices can be easily deleted or relabelled. Preprogrammed or learned commands can be removed on a key-by-key or entire device basis, or the entire remote can be reset to factory defaults.
Setup is so easy that I was able to fly around the menu system in short order, trying out various settings. Even use of the [X] and [O] keys became second nature to confirm changes or go back to the previous menu. The only issue I noticed is that the remote locked up once or twice during setup and needed the batteries taken out, although I was pleased that no work was ever lost (but the clock kept resetting – 12:00, 12:00, 12:00...).
A somewhat unusual option is the so-called “debug” learning mode, which is used for commands that don’t capture properly. Apparently the remote can be used to store “what it sees” and then transmit that data to Sunwave for analysis – assuming one has the computer interface kit.
Computer software? You bet!
Although the SRC-3810 is completely adequate as a standalone product, that didn’t stop Sunwave from developing an optional PC connection kit geared towards advanced users and custom installers. Through this connection it’s also possible to update the remote’s firmware and preprogrammed code database with new features and codes.
The $39 USD MSRP SLC-2080 cable can be used to transfer settings to or from a Windows-based computer via the free RemoteComm software package. Although the SLC-2080 cable uses a USB connection, the SRC-3810 has only a serial interface. A small bullet-shaped hub on the cable with “power”, “transmit” and “receive” lights acts as a translator, allowing the remote to work properly with modern computers that more often than not lack any sort of serial interface. A detachable 2.5mm headphone-style cord connects the hub to the remote control.
RemoteComm v2.01 also works with Sunwave’s SRC-9310 remote. The program has three main functions: creating and editing devices, selecting preprogrammed codes, and recording macros. A tree-style list of devices, macros and favorite channel groups is located on the left side of the screen. Below that is the preprogrammed code window, which permits easy access to preset numbers. Further down is a user area containing a list of separate device setup files that can be easily copied to any device in the configuration. The right side of the screen is where all customization work is done and displays previews of screen layouts along with other items.
A slightly easier way.
Although the software and instructions can be a bit confusing, for the most part setup is completed the same as it would be on the remote. However, a few enhancements do make the computer software more versatile than remote-only programming.
First, during screen editing it’s possible to combine multiple labels on a single LCD square. So it would be feasible for one of the keys to say “Mode Repeat” or “DVD Exit”, despite those not being standard options. The number of useful combinations is limited, but it’s interesting that this is even possible.
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