Let me start by acknowledging that I erred in buying something without fully researching it and do not blame URC for its policies of not providing software.
Background: After buying a URC-300 at Goodwill for $10 and programming it for all of my devices (IR), I looked into the RF functionality of URC remotes combined with a RF base station so I could help my octogenarian parents use their stereo system located on a lower level living room but with built-in speakers throughout the house.
Not knowing that some URC remotes are professional only, I bought a MX-880 with MF-350 base station on eBay. Of course the seller mentioned nothing about it needing to be programmed by a pro or even using a PC for programming. I subsequently bought a used consumer model RF-10 remote with a MRF-100 base station to operate their receiver/tuner and 50-disk CD player (the only two audio components they use). The set-up works for basic functions and my parents are amazed that they can use their stereo again after years of non-use due to accessibility challenges of its downstairs location. However, the RF-10 is not the best remote for their Sony 50-disk CD player. If my URC 300 works with the MRF-100, I will program it for their stereo and give it to them. However, I'd like to see if I could program the MX-880 for their stereo as it seems quite intuitive to use after set-up.
I'm a reasonably competent computer user (for a 58 year-old digital immigrant) but don't know if I have the skills to program the 880 even if I could obtain the software.
The best thing for me might be to find a local dealer or someone with the MX Editor software who would inexpensively program the 880 for the Sony receiver and CD player for my parents. We are based in Orange County, CA.
If programming these two components is easy enough for me to do, I would like to find a dealer who would provide the software so I could program any new devices they might add as the CD player is pretty ancient. My computer is Windows 7 but my dad still uses XP, so I could use older XP software.
Lastly, I only recently learned about using RF remotes so if someone has a better recommendation or other brands for my parents' set-up that is reasonably priced, please send me a PM. An older/used set-up is probably fine as they don't need a lot of sophistication. What is important is strong RF with a large range and an intuitive interface.
Sorry for the lengthy post. I would really appreciate advice/information from kind people who would like to help me set up a usable solution for my folks. They used to play the stereo all the time and now just use the TWC music channel on their TVs.
Last edited by SoCalGal on April 16, 2016 23:08.
