I bought an MX-800 because of its RF capability (sends signals into a closed cabinet), ability to control many devices, and programability.

I just discovered that the MRF-200, the unit that receives the signals inside the cabinet and sends IR to control the components, CANNOT always be placed IN the cabinet! If it is too close to the components they can interfer with the MRF-200.

Their solution - place the MRF-200 outside the cabinet where its IR commands will not reach the componets, except by dedicated flashers.

My problem - I've got seven devices to control and the MRF-200 only supports six flashers. The MRF-200 is advertized to "blast" IR to devices inside a cabinet and the flashers only need to be used for devices outside the cabinet. (Doesn't work that way if you can't have the MRF-200 inside the cabinet does it).

I was told that I could BUY a package of SIX flashers and splice one of them into an existing flasher. I asked for them to just ship me one, since the MRF-200 isn't working as advertized. No such luck nor any sympathy.

Be fully aware of this units deficiencies BEFORE you buy!!!

Have you tried moving the MRF-200 to other locations in the cabinet? Get it away from satellite receivers, for example. There have been lots of suggestions here about how to overcome some of the admitted problems -- I know you are frustrated, but don't give up yet!

Craig

There are a couple of things that you should know about the MRF-200 (or 250 for that matter).

First, the MRF-200's blaster is really meant to be placed out in front of the components where it can blast IR at them. While it may work inside a cabinet, that's not it's designed or best use.

Second, only certain components interfere with the MRF-200 when it's close to them. Most don't and by placing the MRF-200 away from those that do, you can usually solve the problem. Also, removing the antenna from the MRF-200 can help eliminate that interference.

Regarding splicing a flasher, I agree that they should be able to send you a single one, or you could buy one made by another manufacturer and splice it on. Unfortunately, I don't have any extras lying around or I'd send you one myself. You might want to check with whoever you bought the 800 from.

Mike
www.SurfRemoteControl.com

Mike,
(and Craig) Thanks for the info. You have been much more helpful than URC's support people.

Regarding the MRF-200's placement, URC says it should be placed INSIDE the cabinet. Here is a DIRECT QUOTE from the MX-800's product brochure:

"The MRF-200's bult-in IR Front Blaster sends commands to components in the same cabinet space as the MRF-200"

You can see why I'm more than a little upset with them.

I finally got it to work, all 100% due to this Forum. I removed the MRF-200's antenna to reduce its sensitivity. I also discovered what the MRF-200's ID 0 is used for (it is nowhere on the URC web site for the MX-800).

The MRF-200 is now in the cabinet where it happily controls all the co-located components.

One FYI - I have a Sony KDS-R50XBR1 controlled by a flasher. I had to put the flasher DIRECTLY over the Sony's IR port. It wouldn't even work reliably if the paper strip that covers the flasher's adhesive was in place. Had to have the paper strip removed for testing.

THANKS!

good job. the extra time it takes to make it reliable is well worth it.

Ya removing the antenna always works! However it does limit your distance.

The MRF300 solves all of these problems ans adds some nice features!

It's also possible to put more than one emitter on a port allowing more than the six max emitter configuration.

See [Link: remotecentral.com]

yaretiree - I also have a Sony KDS-R50XBR1 and had to put the flasher DIRECTLY over the Sony's IR port. This did not work reliably so I just went back to IR and was about to give up until I read this thread.

Was taking the antenna off the MRF 250 the only thing you did to make it work good?

Did you set the remote software to send only RF or both?

Can you send me details or the config file?

-Blake in So Cal
www.cdcdvd.com

Excellent info!!!

I really don't want to be a wet blanket here but all of this has been discussed here at length many times. Try a little search action before you go bashing URC. The tech support people do not have the real world exprience a lot of the seasoned DIY and pros here have. We will be more than happy to help. Simply turning the unit off 0 and moving the unit off bad RF interference offenders should have fixed your problem. You might try reinstalling the antenna. It may improve your range, then again it may go back to picking up inerference. There is no better product for $100 that provides an RF solution on the market in my opinion. Go price the much heralded RTI RF product it will make you love your MRF-200/250. I am glad you found your solution. Welcome to RC!