Introduction
Welcome to the user manual for your One For All URC1281 Essence 8 Universal Remote Control. This remote is designed to simplify your home entertainment experience by allowing you to control up to eight different audio and video devices with a single remote.
The URC1281 Essence 8 features a clear, uncluttered design with large, well-labeled buttons for ease of use. It is compatible with a wide range of devices, including televisions, streaming devices, soundbars, and more. This manual provides detailed instructions on how to set up, operate, and maintain your remote control.
Key Features:
- Controls up to 8 devices.
- Simple and intuitive setup process.
- Compatible with various device types.
- Ready to use after battery insertion for many TV brands.
- Ergonomic design for comfortable handling.
Product Overview
The One For All URC1281 Essence 8 remote control is designed for ease of use, featuring a logical button layout. Below is an image of the remote with a description of its main components.

Image: Front view of the One For All URC1281 Essence 8 Universal Remote Control. The remote is black with various gray and colored buttons, including power, device selection (TV, AUX, OTT, STB, AUD, BLU, DVD, BAR), navigation, volume, channel, and number keys. A Netflix button is prominently featured.
Device Buttons:
- TV: Controls your television.
- AUX: Auxiliary device.
- OTT: Over-The-Top streaming device.
- STB: Set-Top Box.
- AUD: Audio device (e.g., soundbar, receiver).
- BLU: Blu-ray player.
- DVD: DVD player.
- BAR: Soundbar.
Other Key Buttons:
- Power (Red): Turns the selected device on or off.
- Setup: Used for programming the remote.
- Volume (+/-): Adjusts the volume.
- Channel (Ch +/-): Changes channels.
- Navigation Pad (Up/Down/Left/Right/OK): For menu navigation.
- Playback Controls (Play, Pause, Stop, Rewind, Fast Forward): For media playback.
- Netflix: Direct access to Netflix (if supported by the device).
- Number Keys (0-9): For direct channel entry or inputting codes.
Setup
1. Battery Installation
Your remote requires two AAA alkaline batteries (not included). Ensure correct polarity when inserting.
- Open the battery compartment cover on the back of the remote.
- Insert two AAA alkaline batteries, matching the (+) and (-) terminals as indicated inside the compartment.
- Close the battery compartment cover securely.
For many TV brands, the remote will be immediately ready to use after battery insertion.
2. Programming Your Devices
The URC1281 Essence 8 offers several methods to program your devices:
a. SimpleSet (Recommended for quick setup)
SimpleSet allows you to program your remote in just a few steps for popular brands.
- Turn on the device you wish to control (e.g., your TV).
- Press and hold the SETUP button until the LED under the selected device button (e.g., TV) blinks twice and stays lit.
- Press the device button you want to set up (e.g., TV). The LED will remain lit.
- Point the remote at your device and press and hold the POWER button. The remote will send a power signal every 3 seconds.
- As soon as your device turns off, release the POWER button immediately. The LED will blink twice to confirm.
- Test other functions like Volume and Channel. If they work, your device is programmed. If not, repeat the process, releasing the POWER button at the next power-off signal.
b. Code Entry (Using a 4-digit code)
If SimpleSet does not work, or for less common brands, you can enter a 4-digit code from the code list provided with your remote or available online.
- Turn on the device you wish to control.
- Press and hold the SETUP button until the LED under the selected device button blinks twice and stays lit.
- Press the device button you want to set up (e.g., DVD). The LED will remain lit.
- Enter the 4-digit code for your device brand using the number keys.
- If the code is valid, the LED will blink twice and turn off. If the code is invalid, the LED will blink once for a long time.
- Point the remote at your device and press the POWER button. If the device turns off, the code is correct.
- Test other functions. If they do not work, try the next code for your brand from the list.
c. Learning Mode (Copying functions from your original remote)
The learning function allows you to copy any function from your original remote control to the Essence 8.
- Place the Essence 8 and your original remote on a flat surface, pointing their infrared eyes towards each other, about 2-5 cm apart.
- Press and hold the SETUP button until the LED blinks twice and stays lit.
- Press the device button you want to learn functions onto (e.g., AUX). The LED will remain lit.
- Press the button on the Essence 8 where you want to store the learned function (e.g., VOL+). The LED will blink rapidly.
- Press the corresponding button on your original remote (e.g., VOL+). The LED on the Essence 8 will blink twice to confirm successful learning.
- Repeat steps 4 and 5 for all other functions you wish to learn.
- To exit learning mode, press the SETUP button. The LED will blink twice.
Note: You cannot learn functions onto device selection buttons (TV, AUX, etc.) or the SETUP button. Ensure your original remote has fresh batteries for optimal learning.
Operating Your Remote
Once programmed, using your Essence 8 remote is straightforward.
1. Selecting a Device
To control a specific device, you must first select it. Press the corresponding device button (e.g., TV, DVD, AUD). The LED under the selected device button will light up briefly to indicate it is active. All subsequent button presses will control that device until another device button is pressed.
2. Basic Functions
- Power: Press the POWER button to turn the selected device on or off.
- Volume: Use VOL+ and VOL- to adjust the volume.
- Mute: Press the MUTE button to silence the audio.
- Channel: Use CH+ and CH- to change channels.
- Number Keys: Use the 0-9 keys for direct channel entry or other numerical inputs.
3. Advanced Functions
- Navigation: Use the directional arrows and OK button for menu navigation on smart TVs, streaming devices, etc.
- Playback: The dedicated playback buttons (Play, Pause, Stop, Rewind, Fast Forward) control media on DVD/Blu-ray players or streaming devices.
- Netflix: Press the NETFLIX button for direct access to the Netflix application on compatible smart TVs or streaming devices.
- Apps: The APPS button may provide access to smart TV application menus.
Maintenance
1. Cleaning Your Remote
To keep your remote in optimal condition, clean it regularly:
- Use a soft, slightly damp cloth to wipe the surface of the remote.
- Do not use abrasive cleaners, solvents, or alcohol, as these can damage the finish or internal components.
- Ensure no liquid enters the remote's casing.
2. Battery Replacement
Replace batteries when the remote's range decreases, or buttons become unresponsive. The remote uses two AAA alkaline batteries.
- Open the battery compartment cover.
- Remove the old batteries.
- Insert new AAA alkaline batteries, observing the correct (+) and (-) polarity.
- Close the battery compartment cover.
Note: Dispose of old batteries responsibly according to local regulations.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your One For All URC1281 Essence 8 remote, refer to the following common solutions:
- Remote not responding:
- Check if the batteries are inserted correctly and have sufficient charge. Replace if necessary.
- Ensure you have selected the correct device button (e.g., TV for your television).
- Make sure there are no obstructions between the remote and the device.
- Verify that the remote's infrared emitter is clean and unobstructed.
- Device not responding after programming:
- Repeat the programming steps (SimpleSet or Code Entry) carefully.
- If using Code Entry, try the next code listed for your brand.
- Ensure the device is turned on before attempting to program.
- If SimpleSet or Code Entry fails, try using Learning Mode with your original remote.
- Some buttons not working after programming:
- This can happen if the code is not a perfect match. Try another code for your brand.
- Use Learning Mode to copy specific missing functions from your original remote.
- Learning Mode issues:
- Ensure both remotes are placed correctly, infrared eyes facing each other, and close enough.
- Check that the original remote has fresh batteries.
- Press the buttons firmly and briefly during the learning process.
For further assistance, consult the full manual (if provided separately) or visit the One For All support website.
Specifications
| Brand | One For All |
| Model Name | URC1281 Essence 8 |
| Item Model Number | CON000207 |
| Color | Black |
| Connectivity Technology | Infrared (IR) |
| Max Number of Supported Devices | 8 (TV, AUX, OTT, STB, AUD, BLU, DVD, BAR) |
| Compatible Devices | Televisions, Streaming Devices, Soundbars, DVD/Blu-ray Players, Set-Top Boxes, Audio Devices |
| Number of Buttons | 25 |
| Controller Type | Button Control |
| Special Feature | Ergonomic Design |
| Battery Type | 2 x AAA Alkaline (not rechargeable) |
| Maximum Range | 15 Meters |
Warranty and Support
1. Manufacturer's Warranty
The One For All URC1281 Essence 8 Universal Remote Control comes with a 12-month manufacturer's warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
The warranty does not cover damage caused by misuse, accidents, unauthorized modifications, or normal wear and tear.
2. Customer Support
For technical assistance, troubleshooting tips, or to access the latest code lists, please visit the official One For All website. You may also find frequently asked questions (FAQs) and additional support resources there.
When contacting support, please have your product model (URC1281 Essence 8) and any relevant purchase information ready.





