Have you ever lost the remote to your TV? Unless you’re some kind of wizard, the answer is likely a resounding “yes.” Everyone misplaces remotes, and that’s where universal remote controls come into play. These devices can be programmed to work with almost any type of TV, DVD player, cable box, or other home theater and restore the convenience you lost.

They are particularly helpful if you purchase a CRT. If you’re looking for suggestions for a universal remote, the Philips Universal Remote is one of the most affordable and easiest to use. Don’t panic at the thought of programming a universal remote, either – it only takes a few minutes to do and absolutely no technical skill. 

There are multiple ways to program a universal remote, but the two most common are direct code entry and auto code search. Before you begin, make sure the remote has fresh batteries and that the TV is plugged in. The programming process can take several minutes to complete, but you want no interruptions during this time. If the signal between the TV and the remote is lost, you’ll have to start from the beginning. 

Something else to bear in mind is that not all universal remotes use the same programming methods. While this guide is a generalized article for how to program a remote, refer to the specific instructions that come with your brand of remote. 

A Note On Remote Types

Every brand of universal remote is different. Some will have a series of buttons for specific devices like a DVR, while others will have more generalized buttons like TV, STR, and AUD. A little-known fact is that it doesn’t matter which button you use – any device can be linked to any button.

If you want to control a Blu-Ray player but you don’t have the corresponding button on your remote, just pick a device button. Write it down so you don’t forget later on.

Direct Code Entry is the most recommended method for programming a universal remote. It relies on an included Code List for specific devices, although this same list can be found online based on the brand of your remote. 

Not every code in the code list will control every aspect of your device. For example, one code might turn a TV on and off and change the channel, but it won’t control the volume. If you find a code that only controls part of a device, keep testing codes until you find one that works for every aspect – then write that code down for safekeeping.

Auto code search is probably the easiest programming method, as it requires the least amount of input on your part. It searches an internal database and tries code after code until it finds one that works. The previously-mentioned Philips Universal Remote uses auto code search, and programming it goes like this: 

Note that auto code search will only work with a device that has an on/off button. If your TV doesn’t have manual control features (or they are broken), then you’ll need to use Direct Code Entry instead. 

If you begin to search for universal remotes, you’ll soon find that every brand from Magnavox to Sanyo produces them. Keep in mind that you do not need to match the brand of your universal remote to your TV. 

It doesn’t matter if you have a Sylvania TV and an Orion remote – as long as the remote is a programmable universal device, it will work with almost anything. However, the most common types of universal remotes are from the brands RCA, Philips, and – if you want to invest in a more expensive option – Logitech. 

RCA provides the Remote Code Finder website, a database that makes it easy to enter the revision model of your remote, the brand name, and the device type, and easily find a list of codes. 

If you want to control more modern TVs (and even streaming services like Apple TV), consider the Logitech Harmony. This is a high-end universal remote that can control a vast number of devices.  

Patrick is an Atlanta-based technology writer with a background in programming and smart home technology. When he isn’t writing, nose to the grindstone, he can be found keeping up with the latest developments in the tech world and upping his coffee game. Read Patrick's Full Bio

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