Tom:

1) Can't really explain this one, but I can help with some of the tricks that can be used to learn "tough" IR. First, try changing the distance between the remotes - you may need 2", you may need 2 feet or something inbetween. Also, change how you press the button - if "holding" the button, try just pressing it. Or vice versa. Also, you can try putting a magazine between both remotes, pressing the button on the original, and while holding the button, removing the magazine. This cuts off the beginning of the IR signal and has worked several times.

2) I'm not quite sure I get this one... the macro buttons are always active for either the top or bottom row of devices. There's no way to "hide" them from a device.