Frequently Asked Questions

Q- What is RF and how does it work through dors and closets?

A- RF, or Radio Frequency is a type of signal that can pass through solid objects, like doors and walls much like that of your garage door opener, or computer wireless networks. In most cases, specially designed remotes send out a RF signal to another piece of equipment located close to your equipment and in turn the RF signal is converted to an IR (infra red) signal that your components understand.

Q- How long does it take to program a remote?

A- There are three main factors that decide how long your remote takes - the first is how many projects we are currently working on, the second is what type of remote you have selected for programming, and last but not least, the complexity of your setup. We can usually get you a first draft as early as three days to a week. Keep in mind that we do not "rush" our work or do do anything that would compromise the quality and integrity of our product.

Q- What types of remotes do you program?

A- Just about anything! We mainly focus on RTI, Universal Remote, Nevo, Pronto, Sony, Marantz, and a variety of others. If the remote is out of our area of expertise, we can contract the work out quite easily. This will not be done without a client's consent and is happens rarely. We program handheld remotes, keypads, control processors, or any other types of devices meant for home automation and/or theater control.

Q- I don't know what remote is right for me, how can I decide on that with all the types out there?

A- There are many things to consider when purchasing a customized remote. Much like buying any high end appliance there are a number of factors to consider - budget, ease of use, design, ergonomics, persoanal preferences, and durability. We give every potential client a short questionaire with some questions that will enable us to make an expert recoomendation.

Q- I am constantly making device changes and adding/taking away equipment to my home theater. How can these changes be incorporated in the future?

A- We offer a short period of changes at no extra charge, but our programming change prices are quite reasonable if your set up changes time to time.

Q - What are hard button remotes vs touch screen remotes?

A- Hard button remotes have less graphical content and utilize more "hard" or physical buttons. Some people with vision problems find it easier to use hard button remotes because they always know where the commands are on the remote. On the other hand, toch screen remotes offer vivid quality graphics and can create a very simple user experience. We create channel icons and divide them into catagories. For example, you may have HBO, Showtime, Encore, etc movie channel icons and one press will tkae you to that channel. Also, a picture is worth a thousand words and it's very easy to understand a picture of a cable box with the text "Watch Cable" than it is to find the right hard button. There are also one-hander and two hander remotes to consider as well.

Q- I purchased a remote and don't know how to program it, can you do it for me?

A- Sure! While we have very good prices on remotes through our various business partners our main area of focus is programming and will be glad to help you with a pre-purchased item.

Q- I live in Washington, you live in New Jersey how can you program my remote?

A- Very simply. Most of these remotes are PC based. In most cases I will provide you with a program and config file with very simple instructions how to load it onto your remote. This works out quite well for both the client and us as we can make several changes without making house calls. We want to get your system working perfectly and sometimes there are small tweaks to make. Please note, some of these remotes have dealer only software and we will be unable to provide it to you. In these cases of long distance the remote will may need to be shipped back and forth, or we may send the file to your local dealer for purposes of synching the configuration file.

Q- I live about 20 miles away, would you make a house call?

A- I can travel up to about 30 miles interstate, and about 40 miles out of state from zip code 08831. Most of this can be done quite easily remotely, but in some cases we can get to you if you require in-person service.

Q- How can I communicate with you my setup? I don't know a LCD from a Plasma let alone how this stuff works.

A- Its actually quite simple. I provide you with a a form that you fill out. You basically tell me the make and model of each of your devices, what input the TV and RECEIVER need to be on for that device to function, a bunch of your favorite channels, and some things you feel are important for us to know. We then read all the maunuals on your devices, learn how they work, and create your personalized remote. Some people require more or less than others, but that depends on how much you know or use home theater.

Q- Can I buy one as a gift for someone else?

A- Sure! Several people have and they are a very thoughtful and creative gift idea. You can also buy a gift certificate if your not interested in communicating all the equipment.

Q- Do I have a say in what type of graphics or buttons are used?

A- A great deal of our setup goes into what we learned about you during our initial questionaire. However, your input is not only appreciated, but also encouraged. We want to create a product for you that will provide you and your family with a great experience.

Q- My grandmother is 85 years old, and does not have a complex setup, but has trouble using the system. Can you help?

A- Most of our clients are seniors that have equipment that is beyone their realm of understanding and ease of use. We provide a VERY simple set up in these cases and find that the clients are very happy, no matter what age.

Q - I would love a remote like this, but don't have home theater equipment - do you install equipment?

A- We work hand-in-hand with a local home theater shop in Central New Jersey which serves the tri-state area, and are connected to a network of very good custom installers throughout the country. We can help you get set up and get the programming and remote for you quite quickly.

Q- How much is the programming?

A- The programming is based on a few items such as the type of remote your using and the complexity of programming, how extensive your setup and equipment is, and the level of personalization that will be going in to the project. There are basic packages for each remote line and model that have a maximum set of devices, pages and channel icons per activity.Currently we are quoting each job, but we hope to come out with a better structure in the next few months.

Q- If I an emergency problem, how can I reach you?

A- I am usually available most hours of the day and night and do have a blackberry for email access when I am on the road. All calls will be returned promptly in almost every case.