I just purchased an MX 980 from Myer Emco who nicely supplied the editor software. I'm having trouble getting the ditor to download my first version. I get a "check connection" error. Does any one have suggetions

I'm running Windows Vista

I found the URC Remote Manager in the lower left System Tray and right clicked it and clicked connect. Then when I click download I get "Detected Model Which is Unsupported". So I've made a bit of progress but am not there yet.

I had that issue with the MX-3000. I'm assuming you are using the Windows Mobile connector and the driver for the Microsoft Mobile USB Sync or whatever it is called instead of the URC one. For me I had to unplug the remote and close the editor, then replug in the remote (move it around if it turns off the backlight while the software driver installs or set a longer backlight time) and then start the browser. If the remote screen keeps turning off, everytime it turns on it reinstalls the driver...

If you were to use the editor a lot, I would recommend to use a computer or laptop with XP installed. That gets rid of a lot of problems.

Yes I fear the problem isn't me It's a poor interface with Vista wherein the mobile sync software was "improved" by MS.

My biggest concern with this remote though is URC blocking me from getting support from their protected web site requiring a “qualified” installation technician sanctioned by the “authorized” dealer.

I have a baccalaureate degree in electronic engineering and a master’s degree in computer science. If I’m not qualified I don’t know who is. Either URC will let me in with a password or the Dealer, Myer Emco will give me one or they’ll get this thing back.

I'm not sure if you need a computer science degree to install basic device drivers, so here is a step by step instruction to help you out.

Getting MX 3000 and MX 980 connected using Windows Vista

Previously Microsoft has used Active Sync on most versions of windows operating systems as a mobile device manager. However, the new Windows Vista operating system uses a new synchronization platform called, “Windows Mobile Device Center.” Although Active Sync is no longer available for Vista, our MX 3000 and MX 980 model remote controls can still connect and sync with a Windows Vista based PC. Simply install mobile device center as outlined below:


A. Install Windows Mobile Device Center 6 from this address:
[Link: microsoft.com]
B. Plug in the MX-3000/MX 980 Universal Remote. (Windows will automatically try to locate the drivers)

1. Right-click on "Computer" and select "Manage"
2. Open the Device Manager, next select the Mobile Device – URC USB Sync MX / or "Unknown Device"
3. Right-click and select "Update driver..."
4. Select browse my computer for driver …
5. Navigate to this location: C:\Program Files\Universal Remote Control, Inc\MX-980 Editor\Usb\Windows Vista

*Make sure your remote is awake during this entire process*
*You may have to unplug & plug it back in a few times*

Thanks I'm up and running. What's odd though is that I tried this on my desktop PC before I queried the forum for help, but the driver was not in the proper directory, (the one you noted) in fact it was completely missing. I did a file search, nothing. All of the proper stuff including the drivers were resident on my laptop however after I installed it. And I’ve done a live update and loaded my *.rcf file into the MX 980. I’ll reinstall the MX 980 Editor on the desktop when I get home. I’ll blame the problem for the bad installation on Bill Gates.

I’m still very concerned about long term support from URC. I would like a password into their protected area to get updates and technical info. I’ve emailed them to see how they respond.

And Yep I agree one does not need a master’s degree in computer science to program these things. I was just venting frustration with URC’s support policies. I also understand URC's issues about letting novices try to program these things and generating unsustainable support costs.

But those of us who can do this should be supported. My retailer, Myer Emco, knows me and knows I can do this. I’m a long term customer and early adopter of new gizmos and technology. They like the profits they accrue from me. They also know they will not get the sale if they insist on programming it for me. It’s a hobby tinkering with these things for crying out loud. I’m hoping Myer Emco will push URC to support. Otherwise I’ll just continue to pester them.