I would also recommend Surf remote. They really do know what it means to have good customer service.

Programming the 980 is not overly complicated and as long as you have some computer knowledge, I don't think you will have any issues.

Hi MyM3. I'm way late in getting into this conversation but it was the most relevant topic I could find with what I'm trying to do. I hear you about the $300 to program the MX-980. I just got a quote from a home theatre company to install a system in my house. I've always just had a good TV and a cable box, not even a blu ray so I'm out of my depth when it comes to putting together a nice system. Imagine my shock when the company gave me a quote for 35 hours at $85 per hour to install it. It includes 2 plasma TVs, 1 blue ray, one Apple TV, ipod dock, 2 sound bars and 2 sub-woofers. Oh yes and the two MX-980's. The company says that many hours are needed to program the MX-980 and that it's really complicated. I sounds over the top for me and I honestly don't mind paying a premium to have someone else do it professionally but $3,000? Am I being unreasonable thinking this is too much. The $3,000 and 35 hours is for the entire installation, not just the programming but he says a lot of it is for the remotes.

I'm still in shock and don't know what to think

I would say those programming charges are out of line. We all have received estimates from contractors over the years that are absurd. But, a contractor can charge whatever he wants - maybe he wasnt interested in programming your remote. You should go by reccomendations when soliciting labor. When programming is included in my estimate I am very specific to my customers as to what it consts and what affects the scope of work.

Do yourself a favor and get some more estimates from good reccomendations.

Good luck,
Vincent
Total Control Remotes

+1



I've read and re-read and have successfully programed my system with custom GUI's on a MX-5000 using a MSC-400 and mostly RS-232 to control everything.

It came easy for me with my background in Industrial PLC controls.
I agree it isn't for everyone; but it can be done.
This is a great forum for help!
Use the search engine to find what you need.

I agree with purchasing from a reputable dealer. Having someone to call if your stuck is priceless; especially if they are willing to give you the software!

programmin is not very challenging but does require a person willing to learn... and requires a little bit of creativity for impressive results. i couldnt imagine not being able to program my own remote. youll have all the help you need here, so dont be afraid to take a leap, and save ur self some money.

Vicent, thanks for your reply - I didn't mean to hijack the original post. The vendor called me today and offered to reduce the hourly rate to $75.50 per hour but I'm doing exactly what you suggested - getting another quote from a competitor. Thanks!