A3-01   What frequencies can the remote learn?

The Pronto & RC5000 can learn frequencies up to 56KHz. However, they can send frequencies that are much higher: all you need to do is find a CCF file that has the codes you need. Philips has added some high-frequency learning ability including B&O and Kenwood code formats in the latest firmware update, however insufficient user feedback on this new feature has been available to determine whether this is a viable option for equipment owners.

Without additional equipment, the answer is no. Due to a combination of high frequency and a non-standard protocol, Sony VisionTouch receivers can't be directly controlled by any low-cost universal remote control. This problem is not merely limited to the Pronto.

Common models affected include the STR-DA90ESG, STR-DE805G, STR-DE815G, STR-DE905G, STR-DE1015G, STR-D760Z, STR-G1ES, STR-G3, STR-GA9ESG, TA-VE800G and TA-VE810G. More information on the VisionTouch problem -- including possible workarounds -- can be found on the Remote Central web site. Sony has since dropped the VisionTouch system in favor of a new 2-way protocol that, with a little finessing, can be learned by the Pronto. Remember that the Pronto is not a 2-way remote, so you can't receive information from the receiver.

The Pronto cannot control RF-only equipment. Certain RF devices such as satellite receivers can also be controlled by infrared, so you may wish to contact your manufacturer to double-check. Currently, there are no universal remotes that can control RF components.

Don't be confused by models (such as the ProntoPro, RC5200, RC9200 and CHAD) advertising RF control of IR devices -- this is not the same as RF control of RF devices.

However, as is the case with most rules, there is an exception. RF-enabled European-model Prontos can be used to directly control certain European-spec equipment, such as X-10 RF transceivers, though special codes generated by a program called "CodeGen" (not available for download). Note that North American models CAN NOT control RF equipment directly.

Currently, the answer is no. You cannot control newer Pace cable boxes or any other IRDA-based equipment with these remotes.

If you’re currently using a wireless remote to control your X-10 home automation system it’s most likely transmitting via RF signals to a transceiver. The transceiver plugs into the wall and re-sends commands as actual X-10 signals through the house wiring. If you wish to use the Pronto to control your system you will need to purchase an IR to X-10 transceiver, which takes IR signals from your remote and rebroadcasts them directly as X-10.

The only such economical device that I’m aware of is the IR543 (which is re-branded to various other names and sold by many companies). It is a small black console unit with white buttons on the top for manual control of up to 8 devices on a particular house code. You can download a complete X-10 CCF file for control of a full 16 modules from the file area on Remote Central. Note that the console can only control one house code at a time and that the IR codes remain the same no matter which code it is set to -- making it nearly impossible to work with more than one house code at a time. Though more expensive and complicated home automation systems exist, the price of the IR543 can’t be beat.

You can also buy an IR543AH, which controlls 16 house codes and 16 device IDs.