Logitech Harmony 880 Advanced Universal Remote Control
May 18, 2009 by admin
Filed under Electronics
Logitech Harmony 880 Advanced Universal Remote Control
A dream comes true! One remote control for your entire home-theater and HDTV system. The Harmony 880 Advanced Universal Remote puts you in control of your entire audio-video system with just one button. It´s home entertainment the way it should be?simple. Optimized for complicated HDTV and PVR systems, the Harmony 880 helps you tame tough configurations like switching your television between video aspect ratios depending on the program source. The interactive color display lets you quickly choose a 16:9 ratio for movies and HDTV, or a standard 4:3 ratio for basic television programming.
High-end systems deserve a high-end remote. Designed with brushed chrome and charcoal accents, a color LCD display and a low-profile recharging station, the Harmony 880 Remote will match your most advanced audio-video components perfectly. Logitech has won a total of eight Industrial Design Excellence Awards (IDEA) in the past two years, including five of Japan´s prestigious 2004 Good Design Awards. This experience helped develop the Harmony 880 and its ergonomic design. Featuring a comfort grip shape and a centered directional pad, it fits easily in your hand and naturally guides you to the most frequently used controls. Even the buttons are sculpted, to help you locate them by feel not sight. Smart State Technology allows the Harmony remote to completely control an entertainment system by knowing how to control each separate component while tracking the current state of up to 15 devices simultaneously. Simply press an Activity button, such as “Watch TV” or “Listen to Music,” and your Harmony Remote automatically sets up each of the devices required for that activity. Sleek docking station that remote fully charged Programmable with Windows PC or Macintosh computer / USB Cable included 53 top-mounted hard buttons and 8 on-screen activity buttons 2 MB non-volatile flash memory
User Ratings and Reviews
4 Stars Best I have found so far…
I have a somewhat complex 2-room system with multiple video/audio components. As a result, finding a remote that adequately accomplishes what I need to do, much less one that my wife can operate without frustration has taken many years/models. But I think I’ve finally found it in the Harmony 880.
First the good:
Price – At MSRP of $250 a little pricey, but at half that it is quite a bargain.
Set Up – Set up using the web interface is really a breeze. Actually my son did it for me while I was out with friends. He is computer literate, but not a ‘techie’. The web setup automatically configures nearly all the standard as well as custom features of the original remotes, including some (like dedicated power on/off codes) not available on the originals! I haven’t had to teach it a single command yet, though it’s nice to know that option is available.
Ergonomics – With all the ‘universal remotes’ out there it seems strange to say that this is one of a very few I have found with a proper set of hard buttons vs. custom screen options. All the functions I use most (direction, enter, page, transport, numeric) are available as buttons. This is so much easier than hunting through screens. But in cases where you need more functions, everything else you need is configurable on the screens.
State Management – Pick an activity (watch DVD, Sat., XM Radio, etc.). The remote knows which components need to be on/off and what inputs/outputs each needs to be set at. This is what really sells it for my wife.
Custom Features – If you are like me, on a quest to create the perfect set of functions for each activity, with the right placement, so that you never have to look at an original remote again, you can do it with this one. Screen features include uploading your own custom background and icons for favorite channels. Mine has clouds with button shapes.
Sounds great! How could it be better?
Ergonomics – This is a beautiful remote and fits great in your hand. However it seems concessions were made in order to achieve that beauty. The buttons are small and similarly shaped, and the direction pad is thin on the left and right. I guess if you’re used to texting on your cell phone this won’t be a big deal.
IR Only – If the remote could handle RF I could use it from my other room. Apparently this is a feature only available at a premium cost, with luggable table-top models. Also, I have a PS-3 for my blu-ray player, so bluetooth would be fantastic. Unfortunately NOBODY offers that in a universal remote 
Custom Programming – It would be very cool if I could upload icons for ALL custom functions as well as activities and devices, not just favorite channels. Also, my Harmony 660 included the ability to edit the xml that is used to update the remote. I could use this to get around minor issues the web UI wouldn’t let me fix. It seems these last two would be easily remidied with an update in the software/firmware. Unfortunately, it seems Logitech has already moved on with their Harmony One, so I doubt we’ll see it.
4 Stars Great Product on my second one!
So this is my second Harmony 880 the volume button on the first one went bad after 2 years, so I went ahead and ordered another! I love this remote and my wife couldn’t watch TV without it. She was actually mad when I bought the first one but after a day she was hooked! She has since said that we can’t be without one ever again! So there you go guys with wives who can’t deal with the TV setup it’s perfect for them! Now I would have give this 5 stars but the only problem that I have with this is that Logitech hasn’t come out with an accessory to control a PS3! All they need to do is come out with some kind of USB IR receiver and it would be perfect!
5 Stars Logitech Harmony 880 Advanced Universal Remote Control
Logitech Harmony 880 Advanced Universal Remote Control Outstanding remote and usher friendly. One button touch and everything appears right before your eyes. Anyone who can read can greatly benefit from the use of this remote. I would rate this remote a five Star.
5 Stars harmony remote
This is the 3rd logitech harmony remote I have purchased, suffice to say I like these remotes, shipping was fast, product arrived as promised. A+++.
5 Stars Well worth the price
Logitech Harmony 880 Advanced Universal Remote Control
I’ve used this device for a couple of years. It works fine in a complex setup with tons of devices and activities. My wife has no problem using it. The product is so well conceived and thought through, that I am moved to write about it. Recently I upgraded my setup and had to re-do everything, so I got another run at reprogramming it. Flawless, even learning complex 30-second skip hacks off the internet. I never had a problem feeling the buttons (OK, so they could be a little bigger) or the thing not charging in the cradle. I have had some crummy products in my day, but this NOT one of them. I like the idea of doing the whole setup on the computer, then just downloading to the device. I hate to see bad reviews for such a good product.
Logitech Harmony 880 Remote Control Refurbished
May 9, 2009 by admin
Filed under Electronics
Logitech Harmony 880 Remote Control Refurbished
This Logitech Harmony 880 has been Factory Refurbished to perform as new. A 90 Day Warranty is included. The Harmony 880 Advanced Universal Remote puts you in control of your entire audio-video system with just one button. It´s home entertainment the way it should be?simple. Optimized for complicated HDTV and PVR systems, the Harmony 880 helps you tame tough configurations like switching your television between video aspect ratios depending on the program source. The interactive color display lets you quickly choose a 16:9 ratio for movies and HDTV, or a standard 4:3 ratio for basic television programming.
High-end systems deserve a high-end remote. Designed with brushed chrome and charcoal accents, a color LCD display and a low-profile recharging station, the Harmony 880 Remote will match your most advanced audio-video components perfectly. Logitech has won a total of eight Industrial Design Excellence Awards (IDEA) in the past two years, including five of Japan´s prestigious 2004 Good Design Awards. This experience helped develop the Harmony 880 and its ergonomic design. Featuring a comfort grip shape and a centered directional pad, it fits easily in your hand and naturally guides you to the most frequently used controls. Even the buttons are sculpted, to help you locate them by feel not sight. Smart State Technology allows the Harmony remote to completely control an entertainment system by knowing how to control each separate component while tracking the current state of up to 15 devices simultaneously. Simply press an Activity button, such as “Watch TV” or “Listen to Music,” and your Harmony Remote automatically sets up each of the devices required for that activity. Sleek docking station that remote fully charged Programmable with Windows PC or Macintosh computer / USB Cable included 53 top-mounted hard buttons and 8 on-screen activity buttons 2 MB Memory
User Ratings and Reviews
5 Stars Luck of the draw, but fantastic.
I’ve been wanting one of these remotes for months since I used one at a friend’s house, but the $250 price tag for a new model was about 4 times what I would even consider paying. Imagine my elation when I ran across this deal. Got mine and the programming took a little while to get just right, mainly due to a quirky yamaha a/v receiver I’ve yet to encounter anywhere else.
The remote itself was indistinguishable from a brand new unit.
I recommended it to my boss, who purchased one for himself. His came with a dead battery, but logitech exceeded my expectations by a long shot to resolve the situation.
Reading the reviews you may think it’s a bit risky, but there is really no reason not to go for it.
Highly recommended.
5 Stars The perfect solution
This is a replacement for a model 659. I wanted an updated remote that would be more easy to upgrade in the future for a DVR, etc. These remotes are incredible. The original set up is fairly simple, but being that this was a replacement remote with all the same equipment, the set up took all of 5 minutes. Love that this model is rechargable. I was initially a little concerned w/ the “refurbished” issue, but I can say that you’d never know the difference between new and refurbished. This was an incredible buy and would purchase again. If you have more than 3 remotes for your audio/video system, any of the Harmony remotes are a must have.
5 Stars Great product
This is a great product. I programed it using my laptop and started using it right away. Worked as advertised. Would buy again.
5 Stars Best remote ever!
This remote is, hands down, the best thing since sliced bread… may even be better than sliced bread. Controls EVERYTHING, and flawlessly I might add. If it can be controlled by IR, this remote can do it. These are the items I have it controlling:
Denon Receiver
Samsung HDTV
Sanyo DVD Player
DirecTV Sat box
Playstation 2
Playstation 3 (with IR received addon)
Home built HTPC using Silverstone LC-20M case (with built in IR receiver)
RCA SDTV
JVC Receiver
Philips VCR
The “activities” is awesome. You press one button and the remote turns off unused equipment, powers on necessary equipment, and makes sure the equipment is on the right selection or mode. The power button can turn off all pieces of gear with one press of a button. The programing interface is super easy to use. It’s just a web based software application – you configure everything right on your computer, then just plug the remote into a USB port, click “update” and presto! all your programing is complete! You can make custom icons for the favorites, which is also nifty. And, and this is a big one… never again buy batteries for your remotes!!!
And the coolest thing about this remote, in my opinion, is the fact that as soon as you pick it up, it lights up! No having to fumble for the backlight button!
If you are in the market for a universal remote that will control everything you have, especially in a config that strays from the norm, do not hesitate and buy this thing! You will not be disappointed!
4 Stars Really nice product but you should be proficient in technology
This product worked great and it wasn’t the most difficult thing in the world to setup although you should be computer and electronic savy. I can see someone without experience having issues.
The product allows you to control most devices that requires a remote (with the exception of the PS3 Bluetooth remote). The software is somewhat intuitive although in some cases requires tweaking and custom setup. For a regular TV/Cablebox setup it works fantastic! No need to use one remote to change input and another to change channels. The display is crisp although the resolution isn’t exactly 1080p, but definitely good enough for what you need it for. I’ve seen many complaints about the remote not sitting well on the base and thankfully mine did not have this issue, although you should have the base on a flat sturdy surface. The look of the remote itself is sleek and a real eye catcher when you have friends over.
In summary, this is the best multi-function remote control I have ever used. It’s not perfect, but comes ridiculously close. If your willing to put forth the time and effort to configure this device, you’ll never need another one again (sorry PS3).
One last note.. if purchasing the refurb version, you’ll need to download the manual and comes in very generic packaging, thus a refurb.
I definitely recommend this Logitech item and is a must have for all techies and technology buffs..
Logitech Harmony One Advanced Universal Remote
April 30, 2009 by admin
Filed under Electronics
Logitech Harmony One Advanced Universal Remote
Logitech knows who you are. You have a half-dozen remotes on the coffee table. And you’re the only one in the family who knows how to use them. Logitech can help with the Harmony One Advanced Universal Remote. Enjoy a full-color touch screen. Intuitive button layout. And an ergonomic design. So easy to use, the whole family will love it.
User Ratings and Reviews
5 Stars Finally – one remote that controls everything!
UPS dropped off my Harmony One remote about 20 minutes ago. I’m using it already. After a quick software install on my Mac I was ready to start programming. Honestly, the most time consuming part of the programming was collecting all the model numbers from my different components. Couldn’t ask for a smoother install/programming process.
I was a bit worried that my TiVo functionality would be hindered, but thanks to the custom buttons on the touchcreen, my TiVo functions from the Harmony One as well as (actually better than!) the TiVo remote.
I have tested all of my components and all are working great. Even better, one button now does the work that used to take several button presses from different remotes. For example, I used to have use the TV remote to turn on TV and change the input to the DVD/VCR player, then use the DVD/VCR player remote to control the DVD/VCR player. Now, I can press ‘Watch a DVD’ on the Harmony One and it does it all – turns on TV, changes TV input to DVD, turns on DVD/VCR player and selects the DVD function. Brilliant! Ordering another one for the basement entertainment center.
I’ll keep you updated as I continue to use the Harmony One…
4 Stars Great remote, performs better than expected.
I would give it 5 stars, but the remote is a little slow to run through the commands, but still faster than having to power on and off multiple devices with multiple remotes. Overall great choice, highly recommended.
5 Stars Just another home run for Logitech
I’ve had 2 previous Harmony remotes a 550 (I think) and my recent 880. When I added a television to the bedroom and had to deal with legacy remotes I wanted to move the 880 to the bedroom so …. good excuse to upgrade my home theater remote. Read all the other reviews and make your choice but rest assured the ONE in very easy to program and if you are upgrading from one Harmony to another it’s as simple as plugging into the USB port on your computer and updating the new remote — all the old key assignments are loaded and you are ready to go. Ergos are much better on the ONE than on the 888.
5 Stars Harmony One Remote
After reading dozens of reviews, I decided to order this remote. I was tired of having 5 remoted for various components. I found it very easy to install the software and program the remote. It worked perfectly on all components the first time (and every time since) and learning how to use it was very easy. I absolutely love this remote and would recommend it to anyone!
2 Stars Save your money, many problems and really bad tech support
This product sounds great and if you only have one device connected to your TV it is probably OK. It is slow, after you pick up the remote you have to wait for it to be ready, otherwise the buttons do not do anything. My brand new unit has gotten stuck on different commands. When I first programmed it (which you have to do on your computer) it just would not work right. Modifying the setup did not fix the problem. Eventually I deleted everything and started over and it now works sort of. There are still things I have to do with the TV remote as this one is too difficult to use. It gets stuck in odd modes and cannot get out.
Whatever you do, do not use your other remotes or device power button for power on/off as this really confuses the Harmony remote to the point that you have to turn everything off, put the harmony into its cradle and then turn on the hardware again with only the Harmony remote. This can be really irritating as I frequently turn the TV on/off when I am by the light switch. I habit I have had to change.
The worst part is the really bad technical support. You have to use the online system and wait 1-2 days for a response. In my first request I sent a very detailed explanation of the problems I was having and that I had already read the FAQ, Help, Users manual and used help on the device so please do not tell me to read the manual. Their response was first to ask me to send them more information (without telling me what was missing). Then they opened another account for me for no reason. I replied that I already had an account. They responded that I need to read the help and FAQ. I replied that I already had read the help and then they emailed that they assume the problem was fixed.
By then I had all new problems which I detailed to them and they responded with please tell us the problem. My response was please read my problem explanation and their response was we assume your problem has been fixed – which it had not. There were actually several more rounds of my requests for help and their really bad responses that did not help at all – I will not bore you with all of them, you get the idea.
Then the company submitted a software upgrade (a regular thing and not part of my requests). I upgraded the device with the software, thinking this might help with my problems and guess what? I have even more problems now then before. The device no loner successfully finds the correct video input for DVDs or for VHSs, I have to manually set the video input with the TV’s remote. This feature used to work on the Harmony and now it does not.
Bottom line, I should have bought the $400 remote my brother uses and has no problems with. I wanted to save money – you get what you pay for. This device is too complicated and has too many bugs. The most irritating of which is I have to pick it up (to activate it) and point it at the devices to get it to work. My old, simple device works anywhere by bouncing off the walls so I do not have to pick it up (I’m not lazy but have 2 lap dogs that do not like my reaching for the remote every time I want to change the volume, etc..
Bottom line – either buy a less expensive simple device or get the expensive one if you have a number of different devices to manage. This one is not worth the money or the aggravation. I would have sent it back but I had already thrown away the box it came in before I discovered how bad it was.
Motorola H500 Bluetooth Headset Nickel
Motorola H500 Bluetooth Headset Nickel
Streamlined and sophisticated, the Motorola Bluetooth Headset H500 provides wireless connectivity and convenience. Combining an ergonomic design and versatile ear hook, this sleek headset can be worn on either ear. Created to be ultra comfortable, the Motorola H500 is so easy to wear that you’ll forget you even have it on! But don’t be fooled by its good looks – this petite powerhouse provides impressive battery power to boot and an omni-directional microphone to clearly pick up your voice. A perfect companion for a variety of Bluetooth compatible 1.2- and 1.1-enabled mobile phones, the Motorola H500 is a must-have accessory for communicating in style.Offering improved comfort and sound quality over its predecessor, the Motorola H500 provides a sleek, ergonomic design that fits to your ear, allowing for comfortable wear over extended periods and providing an enhanced seal for outstanding audio performance. Style and comfort are only part of this package – the headset boasts up to 8 hours of talk time or 130 hours of standby time from a single charge, giving you plenty of juice for all of your wireless connections!Whether you are managing the office or party planning on-the-go, the Motorola H500 is perfect for multi-tasking with flair. Equipped with a multifunction button it’s easy to place, receive or end calls – all from one button! Conversations will occur sans interruptions, as the vivid blue LED light provides a visual cue to others – or if blue is not your color; you have the option of turning off the LED light.Don’t be tied down by wires. The Motorola H500 works with you to help you communicate on the go – connecting with devices up to 30 feet away. Or give your mobile a rest and connect with your Bluetooth-enabled PC for hands-free Voice over IP (VoIP) use.
Logitech Harmony One Advanced Universal Remote
January 30, 2009 by admin
Filed under Electronics
Logitech Harmony One Advanced Universal Remote
Logitech knows who you are. You have a half-dozen remotes on the coffee table. And you’re the only one in the family who knows how to use them. Logitech can help with the Harmony One Advanced Universal Remote. Enjoy a full-color touch screen. Intuitive button layout. And an ergonomic design. So easy to use, the whole family will love it.
User Ratings and Reviews
5 Stars Finally – one remote that controls everything!
UPS dropped off my Harmony One remote about 20 minutes ago. I’m using it already. After a quick software install on my Mac I was ready to start programming. Honestly, the most time consuming part of the programming was collecting all the model numbers from my different components. Couldn’t ask for a smoother install/programming process.
I was a bit worried that my TiVo functionality would be hindered, but thanks to the custom buttons on the touchcreen, my TiVo functions from the Harmony One as well as (actually better than!) the TiVo remote.
I have tested all of my components and all are working great. Even better, one button now does the work that used to take several button presses from different remotes. For example, I used to have use the TV remote to turn on TV and change the input to the DVD/VCR player, then use the DVD/VCR player remote to control the DVD/VCR player. Now, I can press ‘Watch a DVD’ on the Harmony One and it does it all – turns on TV, changes TV input to DVD, turns on DVD/VCR player and selects the DVD function. Brilliant! Ordering another one for the basement entertainment center.
I’ll keep you updated as I continue to use the Harmony One…
5 Stars Just another home run for Logitech
I’ve had 2 previous Harmony remotes a 550 (I think) and my recent 880. When I added a television to the bedroom and had to deal with legacy remotes I wanted to move the 880 to the bedroom so …. good excuse to upgrade my home theater remote. Read all the other reviews and make your choice but rest assured the ONE in very easy to program and if you are upgrading from one Harmony to another it’s as simple as plugging into the USB port on your computer and updating the new remote — all the old key assignments are loaded and you are ready to go. Ergos are much better on the ONE than on the 888.
5 Stars Harmony One Remote
After reading dozens of reviews, I decided to order this remote. I was tired of having 5 remoted for various components. I found it very easy to install the software and program the remote. It worked perfectly on all components the first time (and every time since) and learning how to use it was very easy. I absolutely love this remote and would recommend it to anyone!
2 Stars Save your money, many problems and really bad tech support
This product sounds great and if you only have one device connected to your TV it is probably OK. It is slow, after you pick up the remote you have to wait for it to be ready, otherwise the buttons do not do anything. My brand new unit has gotten stuck on different commands. When I first programmed it (which you have to do on your computer) it just would not work right. Modifying the setup did not fix the problem. Eventually I deleted everything and started over and it now works sort of. There are still things I have to do with the TV remote as this one is too difficult to use. It gets stuck in odd modes and cannot get out.
Whatever you do, do not use your other remotes or device power button for power on/off as this really confuses the Harmony remote to the point that you have to turn everything off, put the harmony into its cradle and then turn on the hardware again with only the Harmony remote. This can be really irritating as I frequently turn the TV on/off when I am by the light switch. I habit I have had to change.
The worst part is the really bad technical support. You have to use the online system and wait 1-2 days for a response. In my first request I sent a very detailed explanation of the problems I was having and that I had already read the FAQ, Help, Users manual and used help on the device so please do not tell me to read the manual. Their response was first to ask me to send them more information (without telling me what was missing). Then they opened another account for me for no reason. I replied that I already had an account. They responded that I need to read the help and FAQ. I replied that I already had read the help and then they emailed that they assume the problem was fixed.
By then I had all new problems which I detailed to them and they responded with please tell us the problem. My response was please read my problem explanation and their response was we assume your problem has been fixed – which it had not. There were actually several more rounds of my requests for help and their really bad responses that did not help at all – I will not bore you with all of them, you get the idea.
Then the company submitted a software upgrade (a regular thing and not part of my requests). I upgraded the device with the software, thinking this might help with my problems and guess what? I have even more problems now then before. The device no loner successfully finds the correct video input for DVDs or for VHSs, I have to manually set the video input with the TV’s remote. This feature used to work on the Harmony and now it does not.
Bottom line, I should have bought the $400 remote my brother uses and has no problems with. I wanted to save money – you get what you pay for. This device is too complicated and has too many bugs. The most irritating of which is I have to pick it up (to activate it) and point it at the devices to get it to work. My old, simple device works anywhere by bouncing off the walls so I do not have to pick it up (I’m not lazy but have 2 lap dogs that do not like my reaching for the remote every time I want to change the volume, etc..
Bottom line – either buy a less expensive simple device or get the expensive one if you have a number of different devices to manage. This one is not worth the money or the aggravation. I would have sent it back but I had already thrown away the box it came in before I discovered how bad it was.
4 Stars Great remote, performs better than expected.
I would give it 5 stars, but the remote is a little slow to run through the commands, but still faster than having to power on and off multiple devices with multiple remotes. Overall great choice, highly recommended.
