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...Continued from Page 4.
The first two setup items, “Device Set” and “Search”, are related to preprogrammed codes. Enter a known 4-digit device code from the manual by hitting “Device Set”. Choose the device to program, and then enter the number. Two indicators flash twice to let you know that the code was good, or flash once if it was an invalid number. The [Power] button can be used to test the code entered – if it doesn’t work, simply input a new number. If it does work, press [OK] to confirm and save the changes.
Searching for buried codes...
If none of the codes end up working or nothing is listed for your particular brand, the remote also features an option to search through the entire database. Instead of pressing “Device Set” on the setup menu, press “Search”, followed by the desired device button. The Kameleon now displays that device’s normal operation screen(s) and it’s possible to pick a command with which to search. This never-before-seen feature is particularly handy when a device doesn’t have remote-controllable power – just use [Play], [Channel Up], or anything else.
The next search screen features up and down arrows plus an [OK] button. Codes are searched with the arrows, with the remote starting off at the “most popular” code. Each time an arrow is pressed, the Kameleon 8 advances (or reverses) the code and automatically transmits the selected test signal. Since several device types have hundreds of possible codes, searching through them may take a while. When something finally works, press [OK] to confirm.
By default the remote controls 8 separate device types. If you have a different mix, such as two DVD players or two VCRs, the setup menu’s “Mode Mover” function will reassign any device button to another type of component. Naturally, the displayed device icons cannot be changed.
Time to learn something new...
Despite a manufacturer’s best efforts, preprogrammed code databases can never be made infallible. One For All claims the remote is “guaranteed to work with more brands and models” (quantify “more”), but it’s simply impossible to cover equipment that comes out after a remote has been produced. Additionally, so many models have specific functions unique to that particular unit that it’s not feasible for a single, generic template to cover everything. That’s where infrared code learning should come in: if you have the equipment’s original remote control handy, just have the Kameleon learn those particular buttons. It’s quick and easy.
The setup menu’s “IR Learn” option begins the learning process. Select a device and key to learn on. The transmission indicator at the top starts animating in reverse, demonstrating that infrared will be coming in rather than going out. When the remote’s backlight fades off, it’s time to aim the donor remote at the front of the Kameleon, and press and hold the source button. When the Kameleon’s screen comes back to life and the indicator blinks twice, the code has been captured correctly. A long blink signifies an error.
The Kameleon has rather strict requirements on precisely where you can teach commands: learned codes cannot be placed on the 9 device keys, the 4 Macro buttons (as they could on the Radio Shack 15-2133), the [Scroll] and [PVR VOD/Preset] buttons, or the [Fav] and [Home] keys. This means that there are actually four fewer possible places to learn commands than the Radio Shack 15-2133.
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