RCA RCU410 Universal Remote Control

Introduction

Congratulations on your purchase of the RCA 4-component universal remote. This remote controls up to four electronic components, simplifying your home entertainment setup. It is designed to operate most models of infrared-controlled components manufactured after 1990.

The remote is pre-programmed to operate most RCA, GE, and PROSCAN branded TVs, VCRs, DVD players, and satellite receivers (DBS). For other brands, programming is required.

Battery Installation

Your universal remote requires two AAA Alkaline batteries (not included). To install:

• Remove the battery compartment cover.
• Insert batteries, matching the (+) and (–) marks inside the compartment.
• Replace the battery cover.

Note: Reprogramming may be necessary after battery replacement.

Key Descriptions

Component Keys

Component keys (TV, VCR, DBS•CABLE, DVD•AUX) select the component you want to operate. Press the relevant key to put the remote in that component's mode (e.g., press TV for TV mode).

Transport Keys

Transport keys (REW [Rewind], PLAY, FF [Fast Forward], PAUSE, STOP) function like those on your original VCR or DVD remote.

Backlight Key

The Backlight key (on select models) turns the backlight on/off. It typically stays on for 6 seconds after the last keypress.

Dedicated MENU Key

The MENU key accesses DVD disc menus, and menu systems for many TVs and satellite receivers. It may not support all menu systems, including cable boxes or some VCRs.

Other Keys

• Number Keys (0-9): Used for entering codes and channel numbers.
• ANTENNA: Switches between satellite/cable and off-air antenna (TV mode), or VCR and TV signal (VCR mode).
• CHAN UP/DOWN: Advances to the next/previous channel. For DVDs, it navigates chapters. In menu systems, it acts as ⬆️/⬇️ arrow keys.
• CODE SEARCH: Used for programming the remote when direct entry fails.
• ENTER: Confirms code entry or menu selections.
• MUTE: Silences the TV's audio.
• ON•OFF: Turns a component on or off. Some models require pressing the component key first to turn on, and ON•OFF to turn off.
• PREV CH: Returns to the previous channel.
• REC: Used for recording with a VCR. Requires pressing twice to start.
• SLEEP: Sets a timer to automatically turn off the TV. ?
• VOL UP/DOWN: Adjusts TV volume. In menu systems, acts as ⬅️/➡️ arrow keys.

Programming the Remote

Direct Entry Method

This is the preferred method for programming. It involves entering a specific code for your device's brand.

Programming for TV

1. Turn on your TV.
2. Locate the TV Code List and find your TV brand.
3. Press and hold CODE SEARCH until the indicator light [?] illuminates, then release.
4. Press and release the TV key. The indicator light [?] blinks and stays lit.
5. Enter the first 3-digit code for your brand from the code list. The indicator light [?] turns off if the code is valid.
6. Aim the remote at the TV and press ⚡. If the TV turns off, the code is correct.
7. If the TV does not turn off, repeat steps 3-6 with the next code for your brand.

Similar direct entry steps apply for VCR, Satellite/Cable Box, and DVD/AUX components, using their respective keys (VCR, DBS•CABLE, DVD•AUX).

Code Search Methods

Use these methods if your brand is not listed or direct entry fails. Note: This can be time-consuming.

Manual Code Search

1. Turn on the component.
2. Press and hold CODE SEARCH until the indicator light [?] illuminates, then release.
3. Press the relevant component key (TV, VCR, etc.). The indicator light [?] blinks and stays lit.
4. Aim the remote at the component and press ⚡ repeatedly until the component turns off. This may take many presses (up to 200).
5. When the component turns off, press ENTER to store the code.

Auto Code Search

1. Turn on the component.
2. Press and hold CODE SEARCH until the indicator light [?] illuminates, then release.
3. Press the relevant component key (TV, VCR, etc.). The indicator light [?] blinks and stays lit.
4. Aim the remote at the component and press ⚡ once. The remote will cycle through codes automatically (3-second delay between each).
5. As soon as the component turns off, press ENTER immediately to store the code.

Code Retrieval

To find the code you've stored after using Code Search:

1. Press and hold CODE SEARCH until the indicator light [?] illuminates, then release.
2. Press the relevant component key (TV, VCR, etc.). The indicator light [?] blinks and stays lit.
3. Press CODE SEARCH again. The indicator light [?] turns off.
4. Press number keys (0-9) in sequence until the indicator light [?] blinks. The number pressed is the first digit of the code. Repeat for all digits.

Features

Sleep Feature

Automatically turns off your TV. To program: Press and hold SLEEP until the indicator light [?] illuminates, then release. Enter the desired time in minutes (1-99) using the number keys. To cancel, press and hold SLEEP until the indicator light [?] blinks, then press ⚡.

On-screen Menus

To access menus: Ensure components are on and TV is set to the correct input. Press the component key (TV, VCR, etc.), then press MENU. The indicator light [?] will blink. Use VOL/CHAN keys to navigate and ENTER/MENU to select.

Note: Menu access may vary by brand and component type.

Troubleshooting

Remote Not Programming

• Ensure proper distance and line-of-sight to the component.
• Try Code Search methods if brand is not listed or direct entry fails.
• Ensure the correct component key (TV, VCR, etc.) is pressed to set the remote's mode.
• Check ? installation and replace if necessary.

Indicator Light Not On

• Ensure the correct component key is pressed.
• Check ? installation.
• Replace batteries.

Remote Not Operating Component

• Ensure correct component mode is selected.
• Remove obstructions between remote and component.
• Check ? installation and replace if needed.
• Try resetting the remote: remove batteries, press and hold '1' for several seconds, reinsert batteries. Reprogramming will be required.

Remote Not Performing Commands Properly

• Ensure correct component mode is selected.
• Ensure component is ready (e.g., DVD has disc).
• Press REC twice for VCR recording.
• Try pressing ENTER after channel number entry.
• Some codes may only control limited functions. Try other codes.

VCR Won't Record

• Press REC key twice.
• Ensure tape is loaded and not write-protected.

Remote Will Not Change Channels

• Ensure correct component mode is selected.
• Press ENTER after entering channel number.

Component Menu Not Appearing

• Ensure TV is set to the correct video input for the component.
• Ensure correct component mode is selected on the remote.
• Menu access is not supported for all brands.

Limited 90-Day Warranty

THOMSON INC. warrants this product against defects in materials or workmanship for 90 days from the date of purchase. For warranty service, return the product postage prepaid to the Product Exchange Center. This warranty covers replacement of defective products and does not cover incidental or consequential damages. Some states may have different provisions.

Product Exchange Center: 11721 Alameda Avenue, Socorro TX 79927

Compatibility

The RCA RCU410 universal remote is compatible with most brands of infrared-controlled components manufactured after 1990. It operates TVs, VCRs, Satellite Receivers, Cable Boxes, and DVD or AUX devices.

Many popular brands are supported. A complete list is available in the enclosed code list.