Introduction
This manual provides instructions for the Smartby Universal Replacement Remote Control, designed for use with DirecTV Satellite Cable TV Receivers. This remote is pre-programmed for immediate use with compatible DirecTV receivers and can also be programmed to control your television.
Compatible DirecTV Receiver Models include: HR20, H20, HR21, H21, HR22, H23, HR23, H24, HR24, R15, R16, R22, D11, D12, and others.
Product Overview

Image: Front view of the Smartby Universal Replacement Remote Control for DirecTV. This image displays the layout of all buttons, including power, volume, channel, guide, menu, info, and DVR controls, along with the numeric keypad.
The Smartby Universal Replacement Remote Control features a standard layout for easy navigation and control of your DirecTV receiver and television. Key buttons include:
- TV Input / Format: Switches TV input or changes screen format.
- PWR (Power): Turns the DirecTV receiver on or off.
- ON / OFF (TV Power): Turns the television on or off.
- Guide: Displays the program guide.
- Menu: Accesses the DirecTV system menu.
- Info: Displays program information.
- Select: Confirms selections.
- Arrow Buttons: Navigates through menus and guide.
- Vol +/-: Adjusts television volume.
- Chan +/-: Changes channels.
- Mute: Mutes television audio.
- Rec (Record): Records current program.
- List: Accesses recorded programs list.
- Active: Accesses the DirecTV Active channel.
- Colored Buttons (Red, Green, Yellow, Blue): Used for specific functions within menus or applications.
- Numeric Keypad (0-9): For direct channel entry.
Setup
1. Battery Installation
- Locate the battery compartment on the back of the remote control.
- Slide the battery cover downwards and remove it.
- Insert two AAA batteries (not included), ensuring the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals align correctly with the markings inside the compartment.
- Replace the battery cover by sliding it back into place until it clicks securely.

Image: Back view of the Smartby Universal Replacement Remote Control, showing the battery compartment. This image helps users identify where to insert batteries.
2. Connecting to DirecTV Receiver
This remote control is pre-programmed to work with most DirecTV receivers. After installing batteries, point the remote at your DirecTV receiver and press the PWR button. If the receiver turns on or off, the remote is ready for use with your DirecTV system.
3. Programming for Television Control
To control your television's power and volume functions, you will need to program the remote using your DirecTV receiver's on-screen menu. Follow these steps:
- Turn on your television and DirecTV receiver.
- Press the MENU button on the remote.
- Navigate to Settings & Help, then select Settings.
- Choose Remote Control, then Program Remote.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to select your TV brand and enter the provided codes. You may need to try several codes until you find one that works for your specific TV model.
- Once a code is successfully entered, test the ON/OFF (TV Power) and Vol +/- buttons.
Note: If the remote does not control your TV after trying multiple codes, consult your TV's manual for alternative programming methods or visit the DirecTV support website for additional codes.
Operating Instructions
This section details the primary functions of the remote control buttons.
- Power Control: Use the PWR button for the DirecTV receiver and the ON/OFF button for your television.
- Channel Navigation: Use Chan +/- to change channels sequentially or the numeric keypad to enter a channel directly.
- Volume Control: Use Vol +/- to adjust the television volume. Press Mute to silence the audio.
- Guide and Menu Access: Press Guide to view program listings. Press Menu to access system settings and options.
- DVR Functions: Use Rec to record, List to view recordings, and the playback controls (Play, Pause, Fast Forward, Rewind, Stop) for recorded content.
- Information: Press Info to display details about the current program or selected item.
- Navigation: Use the arrow buttons and Select button to move through menus and make selections.
Maintenance
Battery Replacement
Replace batteries when the remote's response becomes sluggish or stops working. Always replace both batteries at the same time with new AAA alkaline batteries. Do not mix old and new batteries, or different types of batteries.
Cleaning
To clean the remote control, gently wipe it with a soft, dry cloth. For stubborn dirt, slightly dampen the cloth with water. Avoid using harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, or excessive moisture, as these can damage the remote.
Troubleshooting
- Remote not responding to DirecTV receiver:
- Check battery orientation and ensure they are fresh.
- Ensure there are no obstructions between the remote and the receiver.
- Verify the remote is pointed directly at the receiver.
- Remote not controlling TV (power/volume):
- Re-attempt the TV programming steps outlined in the "Setup" section.
- Try alternative codes for your TV brand if the initial ones do not work.
- Ensure the remote is in TV mode (if applicable, though this model is universal and typically switches automatically).
- Buttons are sticky or unresponsive:
- Clean the remote as described in the "Maintenance" section.
- Replace batteries.
Specifications
| Model Number | SMTB-DirecTV |
| Dimensions | 8 x 2 x 0.75 inches |
| Item Weight | 5 ounces |
| Compatible Devices | DirecTV Satellite Cable TV Receivers (HR20, H20, HR21, H21, HR22, H23, HR23, H24, HR24, R15, R16, R22, D11, D12, etc.), Televisions |
| Power Source | 2 x AAA Batteries (not included) |
| Special Feature | Universal, Pre-programmed for DirecTV |
Warranty and Support
For warranty information or technical support, please refer to the retailer's return policy or contact the manufacturer directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.
For additional assistance with DirecTV receiver or TV programming, please visit the official DirecTV support website or consult your television's user manual.