I am considering the pronto because I would like convenient control of my meager home theater and to be able to include some home automation (lighting, temperature and blinds).

My first question is can the Pronto learn quickly, I mean for instance, my av receiver has an input selector on it's remote that can operate in two modes. One mode will allow the remote to switch control functions of my sat. receiver to my VCR, without actually changing the amp's input, This allows me to seamlessly watch sat. TV and run VCR transport controls at the same time. The other mode allows both the remote to switch it's control function from one source to another and change the amps input mode at the same time. Selecting either of these modes with the remotes input selector button results in the remote sending out a very short "burst" of IR signals to let the associated devices do their thing, this is regardless of the length of time that this button is held (this "burst" is approx. 1/3 of a second long, and then it is done), The first question is can the Pronto learn in that short of a duration?

Second one is...Can I develop a home theater "screen" on the pronto that would include basic sat receiver controls (ch up/dwn, info, guide, view) in addition to basic amp/receiver controls (system vol, sub volume, audio mode toggle (stereo, 3 ch. stereo, pro-logic, Dolby Digital)?

3rd... my existing remote that came with the Kenwood receiver that I have has most of the funtions that I want for home theater, except for learning or home automation, but it passed my personal acid test, I was able to teach my in-laws how to opperate it. Is the Pronto easy to manage when things get out of sync?, eg. the tv is turned off, but the sat recever is turned on etc and is it easy to learn how to use it's included software?

1) As long as it uses normal IR there is no problem
2) Yes there are basically two limits to the Pronto: what can your equipment do and your imagination (or talent)
3) Read 2 again + you can download the software from this site [Link: remotecentral.com] you can try before you buy. You can also go to the file section and see how others have designed their configuration (if you press the icon that looks like a running Pronto you will see what it really looks like)
There is also all the manuals and the FAQ. And finally we are also all here if you have other questions.