Page 1 of Universal Remote Control - getting it to perform all the functions

I have never sucessfully managed to get a universal remote control completely working, but am trying to for a Bush VCR at the moment. Tried a cheapo universal remote control - basic functions work. Tried an apparently industry standard universal remote(it says Epic RC6 on the front, if that`s any help) and the menu key works for the video, but not the OK key. Obviously the video is pretty much useless for recording as a consequence. So can anyone help?

This item was edited on Sunday, 10th April 2005, 18:30

The cheap universal remotes only seem to offer basic functions. If your device has a Menu it may be possible to get into the setup menu of your device and access some of the more advanced functions. Unfortunately in your case, your universal remote does not seem to emulate the OK key so you are unable to use the menu. You could maybe try another setup code (see the remote control`s instructions). You might find one that can send the OK command, especially if there is an OK or ENTER button marked on your universal remote.
The only range of universal remotesI know of that support all the original functions are the ONE FOR ALL URC models. I have a One For All Digital URC-7562 which is excellent. I`m using it as a replacement remote for a Philips DVDR70 DVD recorder. The URC-7562 can perform absolutely ALL the functions of the original remote, such as EDIT, TIMER and SYSTEM MENU. It even has functions that the original remote didn`t have, such as a command to alter the brightness of the fluorescent display, and a command to make the DVD multi-region - this is why I bought it ;)
There are a few things to note about all this. Obviously the universal remote doesn`t have buttons labelled EDIT, TIMER or SYSTEM MENU, for example. To get these functions, you press MAGIC followed by a 3-digit code. The Magic codes are not printed in the manual, you have to ask the helpline for them but it`s a free phone number. Entering these codes every time can get a bit tedious, but thankfully One For All have thought about that. Eight blank buttons are provided which you can program with a Magic code. You can even learn functions from an original remote if you still have or can borrow one. And finally it supports downloading new codes over the phone or via the internet, so it should not go out of date if you get a new piece of AV equipment in the future. There is actually a PC interface inside the battery compartment. The One For All company does not support this but some clever hackers on the internet have released software enabling you to upload and download codes, customise key layouts and create macro commands .
The only downside for you is the price. This remote costs £24.99 in Argos ( cat. no. 535/6209 ) That`s probably not much less than a brand new cheap Bush VHS with original remote. You could try contacting Bush and asking the price for a replacement original remote for your unit.

"......You could try contacting Bush and asking the price for a replacement original remote for your unit....."

or you could have a look here - http://www.grandata.co.uk/acatalog/index.html#infolines

Loads of remotes at good prices.
EDIT...... Just had a look and see that they have not completed building the site. Give them a call, I`m sure they will have what you want. Their paper cat. lists the lot.

This item was edited on Thursday, 14th April 2005, 13:05

To get a replacement Bush Video Remote would cost about £20, I wanted to avoid that which is why I asked. Thanks for the pointers anyway.