Universal Remote Control MSC-400 Programming Manual page 35

Program Menu Step # 3 - IR Database
Using the IR Database - Discrete Codes and Toggles
The Universal Remote database is unique in the industry because it includes "secret" discrete codes that are
not on the actual remote controls for many components. These codes are highly sought after by professional
installers because they make automation of the home theater possible, via reliable macros! Here are the facts
you need to know:
Discrete Commands versus Toggle Commands
When a remote control's only button to turn on and off a TV set is labeled Power, it is usually a "toggle" com-
mand. Test it by pressing the button twice. If the power button turns the TV on, then turns it off, it is a toggle
command. That is a big problem when you are programming macros! If you program a macro for watching TV
with a power toggle, then the macro is essentially point and pray (if the TV was off, it will turn on, if it was
already on, it will turn off). On the other hand, if a macro is programmed with a discrete Power ON com-
mand, the macro will work every time (if the TV was off, it will turn on, if it was already on, it will stay on).
So the term "discrete command" or "discrete code" means that the code will only do "ONE THING" to a com-
ponent. For example:
A single "Input" command is a toggle type command if it simply changes the input to another input
when issued, while separate buttons for Antenna A, Antenna B, Ext 1, Ext 2 and Ext 3 are discrete input
commands if, when issued, the TV goes directly to the named input (and if you give the same com-
mand again, it stays on the selected input).
Here are some important facts about Discrete commands:
"Secret" Discrete Codes exist for some components. Why are they secret? Because the manufacturer wants
the remote control that accompanies the component to have the simplest appearance (fewest buttons). Since
toggles reduce the number of buttons, they make the remote control appear easier to operate. Many manufac-
turers understand the needs of custom installers and build their components to also respond to discrete codes.
They distribute the discrete codes via service remotes, etc. For the first time, those codes are collected and
integrated into our database.
Not all components respond to the discrete codes in the Database. A component has to be BUILT to respond
to discrete codes. The fact that most models from the same manufacturer do respond to discrete codes is the
reason the codes are added to a code set. However, some models will not respond, because the manufacturer
did not build it to respond because of budgetary considerations, time constraints or a simple oversight.
To add IR commands to your devices follow the instructions below.
1 In the CCP MSC Program Menu, click on IR Database.
2 The IR Database Window opens.
Type in Section Title IR Database
iscrete Codes and Toggles
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