Hey all,

I recently updated my collection of gadgets by purchasing the MX-3000. The idiot that I am, decided to save a few bucks an attempt to program the remote myself....big mistake! I think if someone was able to walk me through a few bumps I would be able to do it...however; I've decided the best thing to do is find an installer to customize this little beauty. I've called a few places...and couldn't believe what these places are charging...$400 to $800 depending on the store. Can anyone give me some suggestions on what to do...is it possible for a typical home owner to program this thing...if not, where's the best place to find someone who can get help me get the most out of my remote??

Im trying to run two zones with the
MX3000 Remote and the MRF 250

The Pioneer 1410, Bose 48, and Direct TV H10 in the main room.
And HP, Bose, and Direct TV H10 in the game room

Thanks in advance,
carp

Hey Carp,

There are lots of reasons why custom installers charge as much as electricians and plumbers. It is perfectly possible for anyone who is comfortable with PC's and is intimately familiar with the way their home theater operates to program an MX-3000. It is just very, very time consuming. The same flexibiity and customization capacity that attracted you to the MX-3000 can freeze you in your tracks when you face the programming interface and see an infinite variety of ways to go... However, if you either:

1) Hire a good pro to program the system for you based on a clear understanding of what you would like to see on the screen and what you would like automated. Accept the fact that it costs $400 to $800 to install a $300 water heater, but any home owner could probably do it if they wanted to.

or

2) Treat it as a hobby. You may spend many, many hours doing it, but the members of this forum will help you to achieve anything you want to do!!!

Hope this helps you out. Any specific question you have we'll all dive into! Feel free to call our technical support at 800-901-0800 too!

Thanks Eric...knowing there are guys like you out there that are willing to help...I'm going to start over and see how far I get this time.

Is the MRF 250 ok to use with the MX3000? I've heard that I may need to bump to a better MRF? I've been having trouble with my remote working with my components.

Carp,

I probably fit in the same category you do, I have done all the programming on my remote and it is definetly a work in progress. It does take many nights to figure out all the capabilities, shortcuts etc., and I am not even close to having a complete grasp on those capabilities (variables and such) I have purchased templates that have helped me greatly and would recommend that if you are graphically challenged like myself. If I can help you out at all I would be happy to. Just shoot me an email.

[email protected]

Thanks Skeller...so you feel my pain.
I went through the cd that was sent with the remote...downloaded what components I have. My TV works pretty good, but my Bose system and the Direct TV don't work at all. I'm running flashers off of a MRF 250 because I've have my components hiding in a closet. I'm less concerned about the graphic design right now, and more about functionality. I'm not sure why the other two componenets are not working..

Carp,

The first thing that I would suggest is for the moment forget the flashers and the MRF unit altogether. Set up your remote to run your componets and test them using IR direct from the remote.

If you can get through that and everything is working properly then I would set up your macros and make sure that they function with IR direct from the remote.

Once you have this done you can be confident in your setup and start playing with the MRF and the flashers. There is an abundance of information on this forum regarding issues with RF that can help you to wiggle your way through the setup, or when you get to that point I would be happy to give you my two cents.

I am a bit confused when you say that you downloaded the components that you have from the CD. Maybe I missed something when I was doing my setup but I have always used the IR database that is embedded in the editor software. There is a pretty good chance that all your components are listed in there and you can assign the approriate codes to your buttons. If not you can always fall back on the learning feature of the software which isn't as reliable but if done properly can work well.

Again, this is just my average joe experience. I am sure there are plenty of custom installers that are saying what the heck is this guy doing, but so far it has worked for me. Hope this helps and keep the questions coming if you need any more advice.

Carp,

I had some time over lunch so I did some looking around on the IR database in the editor. It appears that everyhting you need for your Bose lifestlye? 48 is contained within the database, as well as, the DirecTV H10 and the Pioneer 1410.

Check that out and see if it helps. If you need some advice on using the database let me know, it is a fairly simple process.

Good Luck!

Skeller,

Perfect, I just left the office early to come home to start playing with it. Is there a way to erase everything I've done to this point so I can start over from scratch? I like you thoughts about getting rid of the flashers for the time being. I will do that and work my way from there.
As for the IR database, I did sync that up with my MX before...some of the TV buttons didn't work...but the weird thing was my Lifestyle and H10 box wouldn't work.. hmm? But as you pointed out earlier...I'm going to take the flashers off of those two components...they are the ones not working. Has to be something with the flashers.

To start over just FILE > NEW. BLANK. If you haven't already, I'd definatley read the user manual for this system. Just hit F1 in the Editor or go to HELP>USER MANUAL. And when I say read, I mean read the thing cover to cover. It will get you well on your way to truly understanding this thing.

There are many installers on this forum who would be willing to help you out in any way, myself from the Thirsty Ear, Damon From Pro Remotes or any number of others would be willing to help program or just give advice. Feel free to email or call if needed.

Skellerman has given you great advice. Unplug the MRF-250 until everything is working line of sight.

-Eric

Carp,

You've gotten some good advice here. If you need any additional help feel free to email me.

I sent you an email but it was return as undeliverable.

Lane Bailey
[email protected]

Ok, I'm stuck...my BOSE system is not reading?? Can anyone help me?
I was able to get the MX to control my TV by sending IR, and my Sat. with RF...and the BOSE is working IR....but not RF. Any ideas??

Carp,

If you haven't all ready, try moving the flasher around on various points of the area that the IR receiver is located on the BOSE. Beyond that you better rely on someone more advanced than I.

How do I download files from this site to use as backdrops...buttons...etc. for my MX? Is there a way to take these images that people have created and put them into my image gallery...or is there and easier way??

oops didn't spot the list...I'll email you later with attachment.