Hi, if anyone has a 2117, I'd like to hear about it.

In particular: does the 2117 do IR as well as RF? It seems like it would, but the RS website is incredibly brief in it's description. I need to control my TV via conventional IR direct from the remote, and will use the RF portion to control my audio system. I want to make sure it will do this before I order.

BTW, I stopped into my local RS store today. They have the 2116 in stock, and offered to order the 2117, which they described as new, too new to be in stores, but available. Also both the 2116 and 2117 are offered for sale on the website.

- Eric

Yes, the 15-2117 does both IR and RF.
Rob
http://www.hifi-remote.com

Thanks Rob. I'm going to order it now.

Has anyone actually used this thing? What sort of range do you get with the RF? Any chance of controlling first floor devices from the second floor?

- Eric

The range very much depends on what's inbetween. I am using a 15-2116 that I converted into a 15-2117 and I have problems controlling my ReplayTV units, which are downstairs, from the bedroom, the reason being that the RF signal has to pass through some big closet doors that are completely covered in mirrors (and the reflective material in mirrors contains metal).

Rob

Hi Rob,

Is there such a thing as an RF repeater for these things? Or I guess you could use a regular IR repeater (either RF or wired), if properly positioned might avoid your problem doors. (I'm sure you have a plan!)

Do you mind a few more questions? Here they are:

What frequency do these things operate at? I want to keep a lookout for interference with/from other things, like cordless mouse/keyboard, cordless phones.

I've heard (here) about people reusing the RF "pucks" (whatever that is) from other remotes . Did you re-use a part? Is this part available to buy separately, or do you have to reuse a part from an existing remote?

Finally (not specific to 2117), being new to the remote game, I am curious what happens when you aim codes for one device at all of your devices? Does it often happen that you mean to turn on one device and they all turn on? Or that every time you tune your radio tuner your tv set changes channel?

Thanks!

- Eric

There are a bunch of different IR "protocols" and most of them include "device numbers" to distinguish multiple devices using the same protocol.

If you have two of the same type device from the same manufacturer, they might use the same protocol and device number and respond to the same commands.

If you have two unrelated devices (like your tuner and TV example) it is extreemly rare that either would pay any attention to commands for the other.

I removed the RF puck from an old beat up One For All URC-8090 "Producer 8" remote and installed it in my 15-2116 to convert it to a 15-2117.

If you're really interested in stuff like the RF frequency, etc I would recommend that you take a look at the FCC web site, at [Link: fcc.gov], and enter the URC-9800 info, which is FCC-ID: DI2, Equipment Code: 9800, which should take you here. According to the docs there, the RF frequency is 430 MHz.

Rob
http://www.hifi-remote.com

I just picked up the 2117. The RF range is great. I can use it anywhere in my house. Even upstairs it works perfect.

The one problem that bothers me the most is the IR emitter in the command center. When it is plugged in, I have a hard time using any other remotes. It must be emitting something all the time that interferes with other remotes. After a lot of experimenting, I placed it in a corner. There is still interference, though not as bad. I checked for RF interference with my scanner at 430mhz. There wasn't any. I used to have an IR repeater that did the same thing. Is this a common problem with repeater? Is there any solution?

I don't seem to have any interference issues with other remotes. My transmitter / emitter box sits in a corner too. I only use the 2117 when I'm in the kitchen or another room.

Otherwise I use my old 15-2104 and it works just fine.

I still have it in the corner 13'8" about 30 to 35 degree angle. It doesn't interfere too much there. It still reduces the range of other remotes. They have to be pointed almost directly at the device. Even with the long range Xantech URC-2.

A few gripes:
Codes for my Denon DVD and CD don't work. Can't figure out how to program macro's on the power button. I am getting a JP1 cable delivered Tuesday. Maybe I'll figure it out then. Any tips and tricks??

I just picked up the 15-2117 this weekend. After a little re-positioning, i've gotten it to work great. I did notice interference when i placed the command center on top of my stero receiver. My remote would no longer turn the stero on/off reliably.

My only gripe is i'm convinced the 4ft IR extender cable is not working. I'm using this to control my TIVO which behind a glass cabinet. When i close the door, with the IR Emitter positioned right in front of TIVO, it will not respond. But if i open the door, then it works. I'm assuming the TIVO is picking up the IR commands from the Command Center when the door is open.

Should i take this one back?

Did you put the IR extender right on IR sensor on the TIVO? I don't think it will work unless it is mounted directly on the sensor. What TIVO do you have? Do you mean that the TIVO is in a stereo cabinet with a glass door?

yes, TIVO is in a cabinet. It's a series 2 60 hr. Did some more experimenting. The IR extender would work for about 10-20 commands, then it quits doing anything until i unplug the command center. I picked up another remote from radio shack last night, and tried the new IR extender. It worked great all night.

Great! Glad you got it working! I just got my JP1 cable. It is fantastic what I can program now! I can finally program the device keys to switch inputs on the receiver. And so much more.

so when you push 'DVD' the remote switches to DVD mode AND your stereo receiver switches to DVD mode? I might have to make one of them cables.