TV Remote Controls

TV Remote Controls

For most Australians, getting up to change the channel has long been a thing of the past. Instead, the majority of TV viewers spend their time either using the remote or looking for it in the cushions of the couch. While a great labour-saving device, TV remote controls aren't perfect. They can be complex and hard to program, as well as being the first thing lost when you move.

History of Remote Controls

The first wireless remote control goes back to 1955, and was essentially a torch you pointed at a corner of the TV screen. This model soon fell behind ultrasonic designs using Zenith's Space Command technology, which dominated the industry until the 1980's. Infrared models soon replaced them, and IR remotes have remained the standard ever since.

Universal TV Remotes

For many consumers, universal TV remote controls have become the preferable way to control both their TVs but also home theatre systems. The one disadvantage of these remotes is that you have to remember to program them for your specific TV; the advantage is that you only need one remote for all of your devices.

Factory and Replacement Remotes

Despite the benefits of universal models, there is something to be said for factory TV remotes from the manufacturer. For one thing, they do not need programming, they work with your existing TV right out of the box. The second advantage is that they natively support all the features of your TV; something not all universal remotes can manage. You can even find third party replacement remotes for specific TVs for many of the more popular brands.

Advanced Remotes

While TV remotes are always useful, the more advanced models can include both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth support to manage your entire house. These remotes can handle not only your home theatre, but also your security system and any connected devices, even light bulbs.

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