Introduction
This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the setup, operation, and maintenance of your DIRECTV RC66RX Universal Remote Control. This remote is designed to replace several older DIRECTV remote models, offering updated codes and an improved button layout for easier control. It supports both Infrared (IR) and Radio Frequency (RF) communication modes, allowing versatile control over your DIRECTV receiver and other compatible devices.
Product Overview

Figure 1: Front view of the DIRECTV RC66RX Universal Remote Control. The remote features a light gray casing with clearly labeled buttons for various functions, including power, channel, volume, navigation, and numeric input.
The DIRECTV RC66RX remote control is an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) product, designed for seamless compatibility with DIRECTV systems. It integrates the functionalities of previous models such as RC23R, RC24R, RC32R, RC64R, RC65R, RC65RX, RC23, RC24, RC32, RC64, and RC65. Its design focuses on user-friendliness with larger, more accessible buttons. This remote can operate in IR mode with all legacy and current DIRECTV receivers (e.g., H25, H24, HR34, HR44, HR24, HR23, H23, HR20, HR22, H20, HR21, H21, R15, R16, D12, C31, C41). For RF mode operation, it is compatible with the DIRECTV HR44 Genie and Genie clients C41 and C41W. Note that even in RF mode, TV and AV functions will utilize IR communication.
Setup
1. Battery Installation
- Locate the battery compartment cover on the back of the remote control.
- Slide the cover downwards to open the compartment.
- Insert two (2) AA batteries, ensuring the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals align with the indicators inside the compartment.
- Slide the battery compartment cover back into place until it clicks securely.
2. Programming for DIRECTV Receiver
The RC66RX remote can be programmed to control your DIRECTV receiver in either Infrared (IR) or Radio Frequency (RF) mode, depending on your receiver model.
IR Mode Programming (All Compatible DIRECTV Receivers)
- Point the remote at your DIRECTV receiver.
- Press and hold the MUTE and SELECT buttons simultaneously until the green light at the top of the remote flashes twice.
- Enter the code 961. The green light will flash twice.
- Press the CHAN UP button. The green light will flash twice.
- Press the SELECT button. The green light will flash twice.
- Test the remote by changing channels or accessing the guide.
RF Mode Programming (HR44 Genie, C41, C41W Clients Only)
For RF mode, the remote must be paired directly with the receiver/client.
- Ensure your DIRECTV HR44 Genie or C41/C41W client is powered on.
- On the remote, press and hold the MUTE and SELECT buttons simultaneously until the green light at the top of the remote flashes twice.
- Enter the code 963. The green light will flash twice.
- Press the CHAN UP button. The green light will flash twice.
- Press the SELECT button. The green light will flash twice.
- A message should appear on your TV screen confirming RF setup.
- Test the remote without pointing it directly at the receiver/client.
Note: When operating in RF mode, the remote will still use IR signals for controlling your TV's volume and power functions.
3. Programming for TV/AV Devices (Volume and Power)
To control your TV's volume and power, you will need to program the remote with your TV's brand code.
- Turn on your TV.
- On the remote, press and hold the MUTE and SELECT buttons simultaneously until the green light at the top of the remote flashes twice.
- Enter the 5-digit TV code for your TV brand. (Refer to the DIRECTV website or your TV manual for a list of codes). The green light will flash twice if the code is valid.
- Point the remote at your TV and press the POWER button. If the TV turns off, the code is correct.
- If the TV does not turn off, repeat the process with another code for your TV brand.
Operating Instructions
This section details the functions of the various buttons on your RC66RX remote control.
- RCVR / TV INPUT: Switches between controlling the DIRECTV receiver and other input devices.
- PWR (Power): Turns the DIRECTV receiver on or off.
- ON / OFF (TV Power): Turns the programmed TV on or off.
- FORMAT: Changes the screen format (e.g., widescreen, standard).
- Playback Controls (Rewind, Play, Fast Forward, Stop, Pause, Record): Standard controls for playing back recorded content.
- ACTIVE: Accesses the DIRECTV Active channel for interactive services.
- LIST: Displays your recorded programs list (Playlist).
- GUIDE: Displays the program guide.
- EXIT: Exits menus or returns to live TV.
- Navigation Pad (Up, Down, Left, Right, SELECT): Used to navigate menus and select options. The SELECT button confirms choices.
- BACK: Returns to the previous screen or menu.
- MENU: Accesses the main DIRECTV menu.
- INFO: Displays information about the current program or selected item.
- Colored Buttons (Red, Green, Yellow, Blue): These buttons have context-sensitive functions, often indicated on-screen within menus or applications.
- VOL + / - (Volume): Increases or decreases the volume of the programmed TV.
- MUTE: Mutes or unmutes the programmed TV volume.
- CHAN / PAGE (Channel/Page): Changes channels or pages through lists/guides.
- PREV: Returns to the previous channel.
- Numeric Keypad (0-9, DASH, ENTER): Used for direct channel entry and other numeric inputs.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause / Solution |
|---|---|
| Remote not responding to receiver. |
|
| Remote not controlling TV volume/power. |
|
| Buttons are sticky or unresponsive. |
|
Specifications
- Model: RC66RX (Replaces DirecTV RC64R and others)
- Connectivity Technology: Infrared (IR), Radio Frequency (RF)
- Compatible Devices: DIRECTV Receivers (all legacy and current in IR mode), DIRECTV HR44 Genie, C41, C41W clients (in RF mode), Televisions (for volume/power)
- Max Number of Supported Devices: 1 (DIRECTV Receiver) + 1 (TV/AV for volume/power)
- Special Feature: Universal
- Product Dimensions: 8.1 x 1.6 x 1.3 inches
- Item Weight: 2.4 ounces
- Power Source: 2 x AA Batteries (not included)
Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth to clean the remote's surface. Do not use liquid cleaners, sprays, or abrasive materials, as they may damage the remote.
- Battery Replacement: Replace batteries when the remote's indicator light no longer flashes or when buttons become unresponsive. Always replace both batteries at the same time with new ones of the same type.
- Storage: If storing the remote for an extended period, remove the batteries to prevent leakage and potential damage.
Warranty and Support
For specific warranty information regarding your DIRECTV RC66RX Universal Remote Control, please refer to the documentation provided at the time of purchase or contact DIRECTV customer support directly. Support contact details can typically be found on the official DIRECTV website or on your service bill.
When contacting support, please have your remote's model number (RC66RX) and your DIRECTV account information readily available.






