OK, if it exists, I haven't seen it:

Touchscreen with a couple dedicated, user definable buttons. (Color would be nice, but not sure I'd want to spend the extra $$)

RF so it can be used in a second zone - with charger base serving as rf to ir converter like the new Denon.

Base could also support a hard wired ir output to work inside a closed cabinet.

Bi-directional capable so you can set it up to handle a 300+ CD changer titles.

Base station would have a "paging" function like cordless phones so you can find it when it's lost.

battery backup so when rechargable batteries go dead you don't lose all your macros.

charger has ability to charge 2nd battery pack for those who want the extra convience on not having to worry about "holstering" it.


So Guys, did I leave anything out?

You barely scratched the surface.

Weighs nothing. Actually hovers in space exactly where you let go of it. Never crashes to floor or sinks into sofa cushions.

Brain interface. Why press buttons? Think your command and it shall be.

Self programming. You press (or think) the same complicated sequence of buttons more than once, and the remote automatically makes a macro out of those steps, prompting you to name it or delete it.

Plug-and-control. Any new device plugged into your house current immediately downloads it's command and control instructions to the remote. This info is sent thru the power grid, picked up by the remote's charging station, then broadcast to the remote from the charging station.

I could go on, but I think I already did. Search the forums for "ultimate remote". We've been here before.

Dave

Actually, I'm a compuet engineer, work for Compaq and a cousin of mine works in the group that does those cool color handhelds, so I'm looking for suggestions that can be implemented with today's technology. My non-compete clause of my contract would prevent me from going commercial with anything however. I'm planning on routing out a nice wood case for it, should be nice - let me know if you come up with any anti-gravity technology, I like that floating in mid-air idea.

The remote that comes closest is either the Philips Pronto or possible to soon to be released uCommand 616.

You can get a seperate RF extender from somewhere like Radio Shack or Smart Home.

You SOL on the bi-direction feature though.

Rob.

For CD player Pronto is the best (You don't need two way remote)

For RF look at the T2

None has Pager.

Hey. The perfect remote will:

1. let me relabel every hard button, because it will have miniature LED displays underneath every button.

2. have every code and advanced code known to the home entertainment world in a built-in library.

3. allow every button to learn from the original remotes.

4. be "ergonomically" shaped for best fit in hand with easy access to important keys that don't require 8-inch fingers.

5. have scroll buttons on the sides for the thumb and forefinger for my "favourite functions".

6. be properly backlit and have a little screen that tells me which Device is selected.

But the key issue to me is number one up there: being able to relabel. That's the whole point of the newer, touchscreen devices, after all, as far as I can tell. ... Mike

Every code stored in a built in library would be nice, but does not take into account for new products yet to be released.
The Crestron system's web sie has a Crestron database that is regularily updated and can be downloaded for new products. (only available to crestron dealers)

Mike it is not just the name, but shape also.

I agree with Mike's desire for something to push on the SIDES of the perfect remote. I'd like to add my desire for programmable buttons on the bottom. It's my thumb on top of my Cinema7 that does most of the work. The fingers wrap beneath and could easily be put to work with their own ergonomically placed buttons or dials, etc.. Why can't we play the remote like a musician plays his flute... with all fingers?

Dave

Getting back down to earth here:

Good suggestions Mike! But what else would you expect from someone who has tried just about every remote out there! I would add providing enough hard buttons to control all everyday home theater functions such as DVD menu, DSS/Tivo/Replay program guide control and the usual punch-through volume and channel up/down. But even more importantly, the ability to assign a macro operation to any button, hard or touchscreen.

Enjoy!

David's remark about programmable buttons on the side made me imagine a remote shaped like a Microsoft IntelliMouse -- the IR transmitter could take the place of the little red light, except it would need to be on the opposite end of the case. The scroll wheel could be volume/channel up/down.

Is this new and exciting or WHAT??? ;-b

I'm looking for a remote control(universal)that is the size of a credit card. Popular Science had one in their magazine a couple of years ago

I have one of those! I got it at Brookstone, or whatever that fancy-gadget store is. $20 U.S. It controls six devices, and is a completely-learning remote. It is the size of a credit card, two cards thick, and has a glass bevel at the top to show the device and time. It works on everything I ever tried, and the battery is still going after 7 years. Only problem is there are not enough buttons, but for basic functionality and access, it's great! I'll get you the name tonight... ... Mike

George: It is called the "TELE-ART" RC100 Universal Remote Control, sub-titled the ONE for FIVE Ultra Compact (Programmable)Teachable. It can learn 17 commands for each of five components, and includes a clock and alarm with timer!

Cannot find a direct hit on the web. Did find this link to Chinese consumer products manufacturers, so the phrase "tele-art" is embedded there somewhere:
[Link: tradeeasy.com]

I even found a voice-activated remote at Brookstone:

[Link: brookstone.com]

The address on the back of the manual is:

T.A. Service Center
1645 Pacific Ave. Sutie 101
Channel Islands, CA. 93033 .... Mike