Most people have one remote control for each electronic devise that they use. They have a remote for the television, DVD player, VCR, stereo and cable/satellite receiver. While some technology buffs can flawlessly operate their remotes, most people have a little more difficulty figuring out which one goes with which device. What’s more: it is tough to keep all of the remotes organized!
Here is some practical advise for how the ever day TV viewer can manage his or her remotes.
Label
It is a good idea to label each remote so that you know what device it belongs to. The simplest way to label your remotes is to get a roll of masking tape and a permanent marker. Before you tape a label onto your remotes, make sure that you test each one to ensure that you are labeling your remotes correctly. Simply write “DVD”, “VCR”, “TV” or another name on the remote. The simpler the label, the easier the use.
Instructions
Some people know exactly which buttons to push on which remote to turn on the television or to transfer between DVD viewing and VCR viewing. But the average person has a hard time figuring it all out. Spend some time documenting the process in a mini-instruction manual that you can keep by your television. Walk through each step and write down which buttons you push on which remote in order to make your television function the way you want.
In addition to writing down the steps you need to take, label the remotes. Many times, a remote has buttons that you will never use. These buttons just confuse you and your family when you try to make something happen with your television. Why not cover up the buttons that you do not need so that you can see more clearly the buttons that you do need?
Using your roll of masking tape, simply tape over or around the buttons on the remote that only get in the way. You can also leave a small piece of tape next to the buttons that you use regularly. If there’s room on your remote, mark these buttons with your own instructions, such as “push to play DVD.”
Minimize Remote Controls
Minimize the remote controls that you do not need. You can even keep some remotes in storage. For most home theaters, even the high-end systems, you can access most devices through only one or two remotes. Also, depending on your system, you may be able to buy a universal remote. Universal remotes control every device connected with your system…in one remote! Check for compatibility before you invest in a universal remotes, as not all systems are able to be controlled through only one remote.
Storage
It is a good idea to store all of your frequently used remotes in one location so that you do not lose them. If you have a coffee table or end table with drawers, store your remotes there. Many ottomans can also act as suitable storage. Look online for special remote control caddies- fabric slip covers that hang over the side of your sofa or arm chair with a slot for each remote. The important thing to remember when it comes to remote control storage is always keep the remotes in the same place so that you always know where to find them.