Many people don’t like the universal remote because they need it to be programmed with their device using the codes or Via the automatic code search method. But there are many those who don’t know the availability of pre-programmed remote controls that are ready to use with the TV or other devices.
It’s good when you hear this readymade or pre-programmed universal remote. But Rather than having the benefits, there are some disadvantages too. So, if you are planning to buy a pre-programmed controller, read this post fully. Here is all that you need to know.
What is a pre-programmed universal remote?
It is a third-party remote control that is pre-programmed to use with a limited number of devices. The only thing you need to do it, just buy the remote control and insert batteries into it to control the device. There are many remotes available that are ready to use with the most popular TV brands in the market like Samsung, Vizio, LG, Toshiba, Sharp, etc. But when you want to use it with other non-popular TV or imported brands from somewhere, it may not work.
Nedis – Maximum supported devices
The remotes, like Nedis, are pre-programmed and can work with 10 different branded TVs. You need not to program with a specific code. It is a plug-and-play type, just put batteries to start using. It is a 10-in-1 model, compatible with up to 10 different devices at a time, and works with different categories like TV, CTV, VCR, DBS, SAT, CBL, HiFi, CD, LD, VCD, and DVD.
UltraPro – Pre-loaded codes for limited & popular TVs
UltraPro from General Electric (GE) offers pre-programmed universal remotes for the well-known and the most popular 5 TV/streaming TV brands out there in the market. It supports the brands like Samsung, LG, Sony, Vizio, and Roku TV without programming. Additionally, it provides the hotkeys to control streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, etc.
Features of a pre-programmed universal remote
- Preloaded codes:– Don’t search for the pairing code on the official website or from the user manual. The codes are pre-loaded to the device memory.
- Easy installation setup:- Many models provide plug-and-play features. Just put the batteries to start using. But some other branded controllers want to enter a single-digit code to make it compatible with the particular branded TVs. For example, if a pre-programmed remote can be compatible with 10 different branded TVs, each brand is assigned the numbers from 1 – 9 – 0. If the Vizio TV has assigned number 5, and to use the remote with the TV, first of all, press the SET button and then press the digit 5 to enable the remote to control the Vizio brand.
- Dedicated keys for the pre-programmed brands:- Some of the pre-programmed universal remotes have dedicated keys for the supported brands at the top. If you have such one, to use your remote with the TV brand, just press the TV brand name key to start functioning with that particular branded device.
- Learning not required: -Some old-model universal remotes require learning mode to copy all of the functions from the original remote control. But here in this case, we don’t need to put it in the learning phase to copy the functions.
Disadvantages
- Code erasing:- Some pre-programmed universal remotes require batteries to be inserted on it always. when the charge is not in contact with it, after a few minutes, the pre-programmed functions will be erased. You need to re-program again.
- Limited compatibility:- These types of controllers will have limited compatibility. You cannot use it with other types of branded devices at your home. Additionally, the manufacturing companies only launch remotes that are pre-programmed with the most selling and well-known device brands.
- May not work with old model devices of the same brand:- The remote you purchased may work with the smart TV models, and the traditional model of the same TV brand may not work. So, must check the compatibility.
- Reprogramming may not be available:- If we have a universal remote, whatever happens trouble we can simply reset and re-program with specific 4-digit codes. However, the reset option may not be unavailable with this type.
Troubleshooting tips
Always monitor the battery health of the pre-programmed remotes because when the battery drains completely, and when you have not replaced them, the pre-programming may be lost. In such cases, you need to either re-program it or buy a new remote.
Always ask the showroom salesperson whether this could be a problem. Because many new model remotes may not lose the programmed settings when the batteries are drained. So, try to buy that type of device.
Reprogram with the code
This method may or may not work. If the remote is not working even after replacing the batteries and checking the IR sensor, re-program the remote with the code. The code should be retrieved from the official website.
Seek customer support:- Contact customer support.
FAQ
1. How does a pre-programmed universal remote work?
The manufacturers have already paired the remote to some specific types of brands while manufacturing. The pairing codes are already stored in the memory space of the circuit board. It helps the customers to directly use the remote without any manual programming.
2. Can I add new codes to a pre-programmed universal remote?
No! These devices cannot be modified by the user by re-programming them with the TV or any other device brand that a user wants.
3. What devices can a pre-programmed universal remote control?
It can control TVs, cable/satellite boxes, DVD players, sound systems, and sometimes smart home devices.
4. Does it work with newer devices released after the remote was manufactured?
If the remote allows the firmware update, you can upgrade the compatibility too. Just upgrading the software to the latest version can enjoy the features added by the manufacturers. It is better to contact the customer support of the brand to know the details about this.
Conclusion
I always suggest you buy and use a programmable universal remote control that has vast customization options. If you only need just a replacement remote for your TV, then go for the pre-programmable. Many people hate programming with codes and the automatic code search. For such users, Pre-programmed remotes are a better option.