As I sit writing at my kitchen table, I'm listening to my stereo system playing in the next room. Predictably the phone rings and before I can pick up the call I need to turn down the volume on the stereo. I grab the cordless phone, run to the next room and reach for the volume control – sometimes I get there before the answering machine takes the call, other times I'm not so lucky. I've contemplated several solutions including moving my so-called office to the family room, but the simplest solution turns out to be the Next Generation Remote Control Extender, which means I can control my stereo from the kitchen.
Infrared vs Radio Frequency Remote Controls
The Next Generation Remote Control Extender converts infrared remote control signals to radio frequency signals (RF) extending their range throughout the house, even through doors and walls. It even works on components concealed behind the doors of a cabinet or an entertainment center. Infrared remote control signals have a more limited distance range and only work in line of sight.Setup is Simple
Setting up the Next Gen is as easy as changing a battery in the remote control. The system consists of an RF receiver/battery charger, two rechargeable batteries, a transmitter sleeve and a wired IR emitter. To set it up, replace one of the AA or AAA batteries in your remote control with the Next Gen battery/transmitter and place the RF receiver in the room with the AV components. That's it. The battery/transmitter in the remote control converts IR signals to RF and sends the signal to the RF receiver, which controls the components. It works with any remote control that uses AA or AAA batteries.The basic system comes equipped to convert one remote control from infrared to RF. It also comes with a wired remote control emitter that sticks on the front panel of a component. Additional battery/transmitters can be purchased separately to convert more remote controls. Battery/transmitters also come in two different frequencies to avoid interference when controlling two of the same components.
There are other ways to extend the reach of a remote control, including hard-wiring infrared repeaters or using an IR blaster which outputs a stronger signal, but this is the simplest and least expensive solution to a common problem.
How to Get the Next Generation Remote Control Extender
The Next Generation Remote Control Extender has a suggested retail price of $55 and can be purchased online at Next Generation Home Products or click on the compare prices button. Gotta go, the phone is ringing but now I don't have to run to turn down the volume.
