Someone stole the install from me and gave the client about a 25% programmed MX-600. Now they realize they goofed and have called me back in.

I'm more familiar with the 700 and 800 style, programming thru the laptop rather than learning codes or being limited to the built in library.

They have no macros. Can I design decent macros thru this 600, or should I have them put it in a bedroom or den and get out an MX-800 so I can fix them up with macros as they should have?

I don't want to have to program a Xantech or a Pronto to learn discretes into this MX-600. So far, the devices installed don't work too well - maybe a programmer/installer error?

Thanks for your advice!

MX-600: macros are 20 steps max. 3 macros available on M1/M2/M3, 2 macros on Off/Power, 10 press-n-hold macros on each of the device keys.

Fav macros limited to a particular device's numerical keypad. No other macros available. You won't find built-in discretes.

Thats probably why they called you back. Depending on how elaborite the system is, the 600 would probably do just fine. I'll agree that the 700 or 800 is alot easier to program. Obviuosly, the guy that programmed the 600 needs to find another line of work.I'll never understand why anyone in this industry does a half-a** job! If you lack the desire to do it right, try flipping burgers or something.

just say - i dont do mx600S - thats why i was a little more money the first place. i will gladly sell you a properly programmed mx800 but wont get involved with the 600. simply explain the extra programming effort will cost more in labor than the price difference in the remotes. tell them they can sell the 600 on ebay.

i bought a 600 to try it. i wont sell it because of the ease of programming the 7/800s..

anyone want a cheap 600 in the boxe??

IF he (the install bandit) was cheap on the remote, what about the other stuff? Can you create a solid program even with a MX800?

"Time and Materials" is hopefully what you told them.
I won't use the MX600, except maybe for my parents. When the remote dies, someone is going to pay to reprogram it. With the MX800/700 I can go on a short service call and charge them only a fraction of the original programming. The programming time will cost more than the hardware difference.

If the system is RF them go with the 800, If IR then go with the 700.
As mentioned, you will save time both now (programming) and after the fact (back-up file). Sounds to me that $$$ shouldn't be a problem, seeing as they (customer) have learned the "value" of a good installer.

OK, you guys have given me the direction I needed, thanks!

Fortunately, the client had bought and paid for Integra receiver/DVD/CD plus some speakers from me in advance. The other guy got the Fujitsu 50" and the install and had them return some of the stuff that I had sold. The basic solid stuff is in place. I'll fix it up with an 800.

He had them return the CHAD most likely because he didn't know how to program it.

I did learn to follow up better after this one was lost because I found out he missed my email telling him of the closeout on 50" Fujitsus. One phone call could have alerted him, saved him over a grand, plus gotten the system working well. Lesson learned for me.

Thanks, all!

I haven't burned myself for that kind of money, recently, but I agree about email follow up. I like communicating through email with customers because it allows them to do things on their time, but when it's something like this you have to follow up with a phone call. People just don't always see or check their email.

Fuji has tightened up the dealer network a bit, wonder who sold it but had such a crappy install.

This message was edited by Ted Wetzel on 11/26/04 14:43 ET.

I try to always keep in touch via email but on a pressing issue the phone is always the best way. I always follow up a time or two if I know I'm not guarateed to be handed the job. It makes the client feel your on top of your game. ALWAYS follow up with a few emails after the sale/install. Yuo'll gain big brownie points. Remember these people are your best advertising.

Tom, while I agree that a 700 or 800 is really the best of the HTM remotes you may still be able to salvage the current job. We sell and program the HTM line, if the system componetry is relativley basic, and the customers needs are'nt to far out there,
the 600 should work well. There is a way to archive the programming on pc without
using a pronto or other intermediate remote. e-mail me the equipment list and I'll see if the 600 should or should'nt stay in the system.

They may go for the 800 without too much trouble. I'll know in a few days...