View Full Version : TV Remote Disabled
rbj
Dec 12, 2005, 11:23 AM
I recentky decided to upgrade my cable to digital. The upgrade required the use of a universal remote to operate the box that distributes the signal. The problem I have now is that I was not happy with the digital cable and deceided to go back to regular cable but now the remote that belongs to the TV has been deactivated. Is there any way to reset the remote?? It is a GE 13" TV in my kitchen.
RBJ :confused:
ScottGem
Dec 12, 2005, 12:23 PM
Check the manual that came with the remote. Also check the batteries. There should be no reason for the remote that came with the TV to be disabled.
LTheobald
Dec 13, 2005, 02:26 AM
As Scott said, there's no reason the remote should be disabled.
Each make of TV has a number of codes that a remote has to be "tuned" to so that it can control the television. This means that as long as the remote is programmed with the right code, it'll control the TV. This means that you can have several remotes all controlling the same TV. Using a different remote for a period is not going to stop any other from working.
fredg
Dec 13, 2005, 06:03 AM
Hi,
Being a cable TV user with digital signals, I have experienced somewhat the same problem with the TV remote itself.
Strange things do happen.
Other answers have given you things to look at first, then if that doesn't work, please post back with your TV brand name. I'm sure we can find some codes to try for the TV Remote.
ScottGem
Dec 13, 2005, 06:11 AM
Let me add one point about codes for remotes here. Generally these codes are for mutli-device remotes so they can operate other devices. For example, my Mistsubishi TV has a remote that can control cable settop boxes, VCRs, etc. To program it to operate those I needed to enter the codes for those devices, but not for the TV itself.
I'm wondering if what was disabled was the ability to control the settop box or another device. I don't see why the ability to control the TV itself would be affected.
rbj
Dec 13, 2005, 01:43 PM
I have tried everything. I was wondering if something happened when the TV was set up for the new cable box? :confused:
ScottGem
Dec 13, 2005, 04:27 PM
I have tried everything. I was wondering if something happened when the TV was set up for the new cable box? :confused:
Like I said, I sincerely doubt is anything happened, unless the IR receiver was damaged. In which case no remote will work. If you only want something to control the TV, you can get a universal remote for under $10. You might want to try that. Otherwise, the only other thing I can think of is contacting the TV manufacturer.
rbj
Dec 13, 2005, 10:57 PM
Thanks. I thonk I will try the universal remote. :D
rkim291968
Dec 13, 2005, 11:05 PM
I just bought a universal remote control for a $1 from a "Dollar Store." I didn't expect it to work and bought it more for curiosity (play around and throw away type of thing). To my surprise, it works. I can use it in place of TV/Sony and Dishnetwork remotes. Not all the remote control functions map but enough things work. I remember the times when these things were about $50 and it barely worked. Amazing.
ScottGem
Dec 14, 2005, 07:00 AM
I just bought a universal remote control for a $1 from a "Dollar Store." I didn't expect it to work and bought it more for curiosity (play around and throw away type of thing). To my surprise, it works. I can use it in place of TV/Sony and Dishnetwork remotes. Not all the remote control functions map but enough things work. I remember the times when these things were about $50 and it barely worked. Amazing.
Well that tells me that your IR receiver on the TV works. So something must be wrong with the mfg's remote.
There are still some remotes that cost more than $200. These are the highly programmable ones. I have tried out several of the lower cost ones (under $20) and haven't found one that controls all functions on my TV, settop box, and DVD/VCR Recorder. I have one now that comes close enough. But I still have to reach for one of the other remotes in certain instances.
But I'm glad you got something that works for you.