I'm programming my 2nd Elan Z-pad system and am unable to learn ANY commands for a new Zenith 27" color television.(I know, it's like putting an Yugo engine in a Ferrari) I am using the Via panel software(no, I don't have the latest version 2.0 yet, lost the Elan site password). When it learns codes from the Zenith remote they look funny, maybe 4 or 5 square waves, no data, not at all like the pre-programmed codes or codes that I learn in from other devices. Other devices remotes are learned in the same setting without problems, I can test them immediatly through the learner. I have even tried universal remotes to no avail. I have tried the remotes from as close as I can get them and out to the end of the learners range, with all lights and other equipment off. Is there anything special about the new Zenith tv's?

Try putting new batteries in the remote and maybe hold the button down for different lengths of time.

Try placing a very ligh white sheet of paper in front of the Elan IR learner. Then shoot the Zenith remote through the paper. It worker for me learning the Sony codes.

you need to update your via learner firmware

Thanks for all the advise. New batteries are in the remote and I have updated the firmware to V2.1 Holding buttons down for varying lengths helped. I am now able to learn most codes except for 3,4,5,6,7 and 0. I seem to only be able to get good looking codes (not necessarily working codes) with the remote 1/2 to 3/4 inches from the learner. The difference between the working and not working codes is that the ones that work are composed of 2 groups of 11 lines each, some narrow and some wide while the codes that don't work have 11 lines, some narrow, some wide and some medium. I bet if I had a way to edit the codes and widened the medium lines it would work. I haven't tried the white paper yet but that sounds encouraging.
I'll let you know how it works out.

I had the same problem with just certain functions with a DVD Player. What I had to do was learn the IR Codes into MCPRO, Not VIA TOOLs.

Once I did this it worked like a charm.

Be careful in modifying the code. That usually doesn't work unless you have experience in this. You may also try using a flat sheen paper under the remote/programmer so as not to scatter the IR. Also, try different distances, angles and timing on holding down the buttons.

Mike

Well my problem is solved. I ended up sending the Zenith remote to Elan. Hector Aguirre himself called me and said that a bug in their software was causing the commands to be learned improperly. He E-mailed me the codes that they were able to learn and solved my problem. Thanks to Hector, every one who made suggestions here and to Daniel Tonks. This forum is the greatest thing since CEDIA.

Phil

A little birdie told me that ELAN is getting ready to release VIA! Tools 2.2, which has this Ir learning routine update, as well as concurrent VIA! Music / ReQuest overlays.