Sony RM-PL500D Universal Remote Commander

1. Product Overview

The Sony RM-PL500D is a universal remote commander designed to simplify control of your home entertainment system. It can operate a television and up to seven additional video devices. This remote features a learning function, allowing it to memorize commands from your existing infrared remote controls, and a macro function for executing a sequence of operations with a single button press. It also includes support for terrestrial digital and BS digital broadcasting basic operations.

Image 1: Sony RM-PL500D Universal Remote Commander. This image displays the front view of the remote control, highlighting its button layout and ergonomic design.

2. Key Features

• Universal Compatibility: Controls one TV and up to seven other video devices.
• Digital Broadcast Support: Performs essential operations for terrestrial digital and BS digital tuners.
• Learning Function: Memorizes remote control signals from existing infrared remotes, supporting up to 400 buttons. This allows consolidation of multiple remotes into one.
• Macro Function: Registers a sequence of up to 16 operations to a single button, enabling one-touch execution of complex tasks (e.g., turning on TV and DVD player, switching input, and starting playback).
• Powerful Wide-Angle IR Emission: Equipped with two infrared transmitting LEDs for a stronger signal and wider coverage, suitable for large-screen TVs.
• Hold Function: Locks buttons to prevent accidental operation.
• Previous Channel Key: Allows quick return to the last viewed channel.
• Manufacturer Setting Backup: Retains programmed manufacturer codes and learned commands even after battery removal, eliminating the need for re-setup after battery replacement.
• Broadcast Switching Button: Dedicated button for switching between analog terrestrial, terrestrial digital, BS analog, and BS digital broadcasts.

3. Setup

3.1. Battery Installation

1. Open the battery compartment cover on the back of the remote control.
2. Insert two new AAA batteries (not included), ensuring correct polarity (+/-).
3. Close the battery compartment cover securely.

3.2. Initial Device Setup (Code Setting or Learning)

The RM-PL500D can be set up using pre-programmed codes for major brands or by using its learning function for other devices.

Using Pre-programmed Codes:

1. Refer to the code list provided in the full manual (not included here) to find the code for your device brand.
2. Press and hold the 'SET' button on the remote.
3. While holding 'SET', press the device button (e.g., 'TV', 'VCR', 'DVD') you wish to program.
4. Enter the 3-digit code for your device using the number buttons.
5. Release the 'SET' button. Test the remote's functionality with your device. If it does not work, try the next code for your brand.

Using the Learning Function:

This function allows the RM-PL500D to learn commands directly from your original remote control.

1. Place the RM-PL500D and your original remote control facing each other, approximately 2-5 cm apart.
2. Press and hold the 'LEARN' button on the RM-PL500D.
3. While holding 'LEARN', press the device button (e.g., 'TV', 'VCR', 'DVD') you wish to program.
4. Press the button on the RM-PL500D that you want to assign a function to.
5. Press the corresponding button on your original remote control. The RM-PL500D's indicator light will flash to confirm successful learning.
6. Repeat for all desired buttons. Press 'LEARN' again to exit learning mode.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1. Basic Operation

1. Selecting a Device: Press the desired device button (e.g., 'TV', 'VCR', 'DVD') to switch control to that device.
2. Power On/Off: Press the 'POWER' button to turn the selected device on or off.
3. Channel Selection: Use the number buttons (0-9) to enter channel numbers or the 'CH +/-' buttons to cycle through channels.
4. Volume Control: Use the 'VOL +/-' buttons to adjust the volume.
5. Mute: Press the 'MUTE' button to silence the audio.

4.2. Using the Macro Function

The macro function allows you to store a sequence of up to 16 commands under a single button.

1. Enter macro programming mode (refer to the full manual for specific steps, as this often involves a combination of buttons).
2. Select the button on the RM-PL500D where you want to store the macro.
3. Input the sequence of commands by pressing the corresponding buttons on the RM-PL500D in the desired order.
4. Exit macro programming mode.
5. To execute the macro, press and hold the assigned macro button for approximately 2 seconds.

4.3. Using the Hold Function

The hold function prevents accidental button presses.

• To activate/deactivate the hold function, press the 'HOLD' button. An indicator light may confirm its status.

5. Maintenance

5.1. Cleaning

Wipe the remote control with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use liquid cleaners or abrasive materials, as they may damage the surface or internal components.

5.2. Battery Replacement

When the remote's performance degrades or the indicator light dims, replace the batteries. Thanks to the manufacturer setting backup function, your programmed settings will be retained during battery replacement.

6. Troubleshooting

• Remote not responding:
  • Ensure fresh batteries are correctly installed.
  • Check that there are no obstructions between the remote and the device.
  • Verify that the correct device mode (e.g., 'TV', 'DVD') is selected on the remote.
  • If using the learning function, ensure the commands were learned correctly. Repeat the learning process if necessary.
• Device not responding to specific commands:
  • If using pre-programmed codes, try an alternative code for your device brand.
  • Re-learn the specific command using the learning function.
• Macro function not working as expected:
  • Review the macro programming steps to ensure the sequence was entered correctly.
  • Ensure there is sufficient delay between commands if required by your devices.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

Specific warranty information for the Sony RM-PL500D is not available in this document. Please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Sony support website for detailed warranty terms and conditions. For technical support or further assistance, please contact Sony customer service.