Universal RF10 Remote Control

Since outfitting our RV with satellite TV capability (see “Satellite TV on the Cheap” parts 1 and 2), I was presented with a challenge on how to operate the satellite receiver-box from our bedroom, where our second TV is located. Because we primarily dry-camp, the use of a single satellite receiver to feed both TV’s is more efficient than adding a second box, not to mention cheaper! The downside is that both TV’s will display the same channel, but this was not a problem for us since we would only be watching the bedroom TV at night, after the kids are in bed. Having to get out of bed to change channels on the satellite receiver was not going to work, however!

Enter the RF10, from Universal® Remote Control, in New York. The RF10 is like many “universal” remote controls, in that it can pretty much control all of your audio-video gear. In my case, the RF10 is replacing two TV remotes, a DVD remote and a satellite receiver remote – a total of four devices. Where the RF10 differs from a standard remote, though, is that it not only transmits an IR (infrared) signal, but also a radio signal that can control devices located in other rooms – perfect for our situation. At about $140, the RF10 is squarely in the middle of the RF remote field. Logitech® offers the Harmony® 890 package for about $350, and Next Generation Home Products, Inc. offers an interesting package for just $50 – but it uses your existing remote controls, so unless one of them is programmable to control your other components, you are still stuck with multiple remotes.

The RF10 transmits radio waves to a small box that, in turn, transmits a large (thus the term “blaster”) IR signal to control the audio-video equipment. Because of the strength of the IR signal from the IR blaster, its location in the room is not nearly as important as it would be if you were using a remote control. Remotes have much weaker IR signals. The picture above is taken from directly under our TV. The IR blaster is actually pointing at our kitchen sink, but it has no problems controlling the TV, or the satellite receiver and DVD player.

Here I am in the back bedroom, controlling the channel-guide on the satellite receiver located out in the main living area. The only reason I am pointing the remote at the TV is so that it will show-up in the picture. The remote is completely non-directional when controlling any device via the IR blaster, since the commands are relayed to the blaster by radio waves. Note that the IR blaster is powered by an AC adapter, so this solution is going to add a bit more draw on the batteries. According to my Xantrex panel, the IR blaster is using about 0.50 Amps.

Happy Camping!