Logitech Harmony 1000 - Features
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Features
This remote has a good set of features, although not quite as good as other higher-end models. The features in the Harmony 1000 are rather basic, but first-timers will love the look and capabilities of this remote. For someone looking for the best, high-end tablet remote on the market, you will want to look elsewhere.
One of the main features of the Harmony 1000 is its ability to control up to 15 different components. Of course, most users will not need to operate that many components, but it is good to know that it is possible with this remote. The wide variety of components include DVD players, DVRs, TVs, gaming systems, as well as many others. This remote is even capable of operating appliances as well as electronic curtains or lighting systems. So for people looking for a nice remote for their home theater system, this one will take care of all of their remote control needs.
Another great feature of this remote is one which I mentioned earlier in this review: the ability to program the remote with your components from the Logitech website. This can save a lot of money when you consider programming costs, but it can be time consuming depending upon how many components you need to program to the remote. Yes, this process may get a bit frustrating at times, but Logitech claims that the programming process is easy and anyone can do it.
I have read reviews that claim otherwise. Some users have claimed that it can take hours to properly program all of their components, and it can get a bit frustrating at times. Logitech has a database of over 175,000 devices on their website which are compatible with the remote. To program a component to the remote, all you need to do is find the manufacturer's model number in the Logitech database. It sounds easy, but complex set-ups aren't quite as easy as it seems. In my opinion, the potentially time-consuming job of programming the components yourself is well worth it because of the money saved on programming costs.
After all of your components are programmed to the Logitech Harmony 1000, you can then start programming macros into the remote. Macros are another name for shortcuts, and they really come in handy. One example of this technology is when you want to watch a DVD for instance. You can program the remote to turn on the TV, turn the TV to the correct channel, turn on the DVD player, and turn on the surround sound all with the push of one button. Programming these macros can be very time consuming, but they are well worth it. They help you to quickly and easily perform common functions that normally take three different remotes and ten button pushes to accomplish.
The Harmony 1000 is IR and RF compatible. Most typical remotes transfer the signal by IR, which means that you must point the remote at the component in order for it to receive the signal. This is the standard setting for the Harmony 1000. You may also operate this remote in RF mode, but you would need to purchase a Logitech RF module which costs about $100. It may be worth it, though, because it allows you to operate components even if they are inside of a cabinet or behind a wall. Switching to RF is a nice feature to have, but some may not want to fork over another $100 for the equipment to operate it.
One more great feature of this remote is that it is compatible with both Windows PCs and Macs. Here is what you get with your purchase of the Logitech Harmony 1000:
- Charging/Docking Station
- USB Cable
- AC Adapter
- Lithium-Ion Battery
- Installation CD and Guide
- Warranty Card (1 year)
Next: Performance/Conclusion >>
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