I have just added a new DVD and Toshiba big screen with PIP to my home theatre, but the number of remotes is too much. I have a Dishnetwork 5000 model which uses UHF/IR and most universal remotes do not work. Is there anything out there that I can use without modifying the internal workings of my 5000? The remote that comes with it is horrible and will not do PIP.

Thanks

Try the model "Cinema Seven" by One For All available at most stores, Circuit City etc.

You're not going to get PIP with satellite unless you have two satellite receivers, you know ....

I just installed the Dish network model 5000 in my home. I have it connected to a Mitsubishi S-VHS, Mitsubishi 50 in rear projection TV, and a Sony ES AC-3 receiver. The mitsubishi IR remote that came with my TV will control most functions on the dish (as long as its in the same room). As far as PIP goes, you need a second input like cable or ant. I kept my basic cable service because its make the cable modem service less expensive. My mitsubishi TV IR remote will do PIP and control the dish just fine. See if your remote that came with the TV has codes for DISH/ECHOSTAR. Also, I've heard that earlier 5000 models do not have IR ability, but that may be false.

I use something called Slink-e from Nirvis (http://www.nirvis.com). This device hooks up to a computer and can translate/map any IR command into any other. That is, pick any remote you like and you can essentially remap any IR command on the remote to any IR command for any component you have. (They've already got a device map for Dish/Echostar receivers.)

I purchased the Slink-e because it does a nice job controling Sony CD changers. What I didn't bank on was the level of programmability it offers for other parts of my AV system - expecially for remapping IR.

BTW, I'm not affiliated with Nirvis in any way, I'm just a happy customer.