Universal Remote Control MX-850 IR/RF Aeros Remote Control

By admin on February 24th, 2010

Universal Remote Control MX-850 IR/RF Aeros Remote Control

The MX-850 PC Programmable Aeros Remote Control by Universal Remote Control allows you to program up to 20 different components, program up to 50 favorite channels, memory offers up to 912 potential macros with up to 190 steps each, and features a smart memory back-up feature that can store programmed memory for up to 10 years.

Includes MX-850 Windows-based PC editor software that contains over 1500 different brand/model code sets, and enables custom program design. When used with optional MRF-300 or MRF-250, the MX-850 offers expanded RF capabilities with an extended range up to 100′, RF routing to allow independent control over an array of identical components, and operation of up to 15 different equipment locations. Uses 4 AAA batteries (Included).

Technical Details

* 20 different components can be programmed with up to 4 pages of LCD screens and 33 buttons each
* Memory offers up to 912 potential macros with up to 190 steps each
* Smart memory back-up feature saves programmed memory for up to 10 years
* Windows-based PC software contains over 1500 different brand/model code sets, and enables custom program design
* Expanded RF capabilities with an extended range up to 100′, RF routing to allow independent control over an array of identical components

Universal Remote Control MX-850 IR/RF Aeros Remote Control Review

Great Remote but not for everyone
A few years ago I hired a local AV firm to install my new plasma, DVD and surround sound system. They convinced me that I needed a universal remote to make using the system easier. The cost of what they were proposing (the Universal 850 plus the base station and the labor to program it) was not cheap – nearly $1,000 if I recall correctly.

But it was so worth it!

Being able to hit one, pre-programed button to turn on the TV, Cable box and the surround sound receiver or another for the TV, DVD and sound, etc is irreplaceable. And the fact that it works through the cabinet doors is terrific.

Even my young children know how to use the device (don’t bother with the sidekick unless you want 2 or 3 year olds using a remote). However, the down side to young kids is that the remote has been dropped countless times. Its been very durable as its a well made device, but recently the drops have been taking a toll. The volume and some other buttons were becoming virtually unresponsive.

So I decided I needed to get a replacement 850 which led me to Amazon. After reading the reviews I was very nervous about buying the 850 on my own and trying to program it. But, for my situation, it was very, very easy.

All I did was go to the Universal Remote website and register so I could download their programming software. It installed on my Windows PC without a hitch. I then went to Radio Shack and purchased the Serial to USB cable. Then all I had to do was connect my old remote, upload the configuration, connect my new remote hit download and viola – everything was there. All the macros and commands, and it works perfectly again.

So if you already have an 850 with all the programming on it, but it needs to be replaced you have two options: Call a local AV firm or buy it online and do the programming yourself. The later option will save you a few hundred dollars.

Keep in mind that if I was a consumer without an existing universal remote I would consider more consumer-friendly models before the 850. However, if you are willing to spend the time learning the 850 software, then this is a great remote.