DIRECTV® Universal Remote Control User's Guide
This guide provides instructions for setting up, programming, and using your DIRECTV Universal Remote Control.
Introduction
Congratulations on your new DIRECTV® Universal Remote Control, designed to manage up to four devices including a DIRECTV Receiver, TV, VCR, and an auxiliary device. It consolidates multiple remotes into one user-friendly unit with advanced features.
Key Features:
- Preprogrammed interactive technology for DIRECTV® service hot keys.
- Master Power key for simultaneous on/off control of all connected equipment (hold for 3 seconds).
- Macro keys for sorting movie and sports programs on DIRECTV® Receivers.
- ID Lock to restrict the remote to a specific DIRECTV Receiver.
- Automatic backlighting for commonly used keys.
- Extensive code library for popular audio and video devices.
- Code Search functionality for older or discontinued devices.
Before use, program the remote to operate your specific home entertainment devices by following the instructions in this guide.
Features and Functions
The DIRECTV Universal Remote Control features a comprehensive layout of buttons. The following sections detail their functions.
Remote Control Layout Description:
The remote control is ergonomically shaped with a display area at the top, followed by device selection buttons (TV, AUX, Master, VCR, SAT). Below these are navigation and control buttons, including Input/ANT, Power, Volume, Mute, Info, Menu, and Guide. A directional pad with an OK/Select button is centrally located, surrounded by navigation keys like Page Up/Down and Channel Up/Down. Further down are dedicated buttons for Movies, Sports, Favorites, and a numeric keypad (0-9). Transport controls (Rewind, Play, Fast Forward, Stop, Pause, Skip Back, Skip Forward) are positioned in the lower half, along with Setup and Record buttons. The DIRECTV logo is prominently displayed near the bottom.
Key Charts:
Device Selection Keys (TV, AUX, VCR, SAT):
Press one of these keys to select the device you wish to control. A red indicator light will blink to confirm the selection and show which device is currently active.
Power Key:
Press to turn a single home entertainment device on or off.
Master Power Key:
Press and hold for 3 seconds to turn all home entertainment devices on or off simultaneously.
Input/ANT Key:
Use to select available inputs on a TV. For VCR or DVD players, use this to switch between TV and video sources.
Volume Keys:
Use to raise or lower the sound volume.
Mute Key:
Press to turn the sound off or on.
Info Key:
Displays current channel and program information.
Menu/DIRECTV Key:
Opens the main menu.
Guide Key:
Accesses the DIRECTV program guide.
Channel Keys (CH ▲ / CH ▼):
While watching TV, use these to select the next higher or lower channel.
Page Keys (Page ▲ / Page ▼):
While in the program guide, use these to navigate up or down through available channels.
Cursor Keys (Directional Pad):
Used to move the cursor on menu screens and within the program guide.
Select/OK Key:
Confirms highlighted items in menus and the program guide.
Exit/Clear Key:
Exits menu screens and the program guide.
Interactive Key (ⓘ):
Accesses interactive features if available on your DIRECTV Receiver.
Favorite Key:
View favorite channels.
Movies Key:
Sorts the guide to show only movie programs.
Sports Key:
Sorts the guide to show sports-related programs.
Keypad (0-9):
Directly tune to a channel number.
Previous CH Key (Prev CH):
Returns to the last viewed channel.
Back Key:
Pages back one step in menus.
Alt Audio Key:
Switches between audio languages (e.g., English, Spanish) if available.
Enter Key:
Tunes to a channel on some TVs.
Transport Keys (Rew, Play, FFwd, Skip Back, Stop, Pause, Skip Fwd):
Control VCR, DVR, or CD/DVD player functions.
Record Key:
Press once to begin recording; press twice to confirm recording.
Channel Separator Key (-):
Used to separate main and sub-channel numbers (e.g., 2-1).
Setup Key:
Press and hold for 3 seconds to initiate programming sequences.
DIRECTV® DVR and UltimateTV Key Charts:
Note: Some keys function differently on DIRECTV DVRs and Receivers with TiVo or UltimateTV service.
- ⓘ Key: For DIRECTV DVRs, displays program options (DIRECTV Central). For UltimateTV, displays recently recorded shows (Recent).
- Favorite Key: For DIRECTV DVRs, switches from recorded show to live TV (Return To Live). For UltimateTV, views recorded shows (My Shows).
- Info Key: Displays current channel/program info. In guide, shows additional options.
- Movies Key: "Thumbs Down" function (DIRECTV DVRs only).
- Sports Key: "Thumbs Up" function (DIRECTV DVRs only).
- Transport Keys: Control DVR functions.
- (-) Key: Separates main and sub-channel numbers.
- Skip Back Key: Replays recorded programs.
- Skip Fwd Key: Advances through recorded programs.
Installing Batteries
The remote comes with preinstalled batteries. To activate, pull the tab. To change batteries:
- On the back, push the latch, lift the battery cover, and remove old batteries.
- Insert two new AA alkaline batteries, matching the + and - terminals.
- Align the cover's tabs, press down until it latches.
- Test by pressing Power and a device key (TV, VCR, AUX, SAT). The selected device key should blink once if batteries are correctly inserted.
Note: The remote stops working when batteries are drained. Replacing them restores full functionality.
About DIRECTV Control
This remote offers features beyond original remotes and is preprogrammed for HNS-manufactured DIRECTV Receivers. For other brands, programming is required.
Programming DIRECTV Control:
- Locate the DIRECTV Receiver's brand and model number.
- Power on the DIRECTV Receiver.
- On the remote, press SAT, then press and hold Setup until the SAT key blinks twice, then release Setup.
- Use the Setup Codes for DIRECTV Receivers (pages 10-11) to find your brand's code. Enter the four-digit code. The SAT key should blink twice. (A long blink indicates an invalid code).
- Aim the remote at the DIRECTV Receiver and press Power. The receiver should turn off. If not, repeat steps 3-4 with other codes for your brand. If still unsuccessful, use the "Searching For Your Code" procedure (page 23).
- For future reference, record the working SAT Code.
Setup Codes for DIRECTV Receivers
A comprehensive list of manufacturer names and their corresponding setup codes for DIRECTV Receivers is provided on pages 10 and 11.
Setup Codes for DIRECTV DVRs
Specific setup codes for DIRECTV DVRs are listed on page 11.
Programming Other Device Control
The remote is preprogrammed for RCA TVs and VCRs, and Pioneer audio receivers. To control other brands:
- Turn on the device.
- On the remote, press the desired device key (e.g., TV, VCR, AUX). Press and hold Setup until the key blinks twice, then release Setup.
- Use the Manufacturer's Codes (starting page 14) to find the four-digit code for your device's brand. Enter the code. The device key should blink twice. (A long blink indicates an invalid code).
- Aim the remote at the device and press Power. The device should turn off. If not, repeat steps 2-3 with other codes for your brand. If unsuccessful, use "Searching For Your Code" (page 23). (If no Power key, use the Play key).
- Repeat steps 1-4 for each device. Record working codes.
Note: For DVD/DVR players, program the VCR key. For TV/VCR Combos, follow instructions on the next page.
Programming TV/VCR Combo Control
To control a TV/VCR Combo:
- Turn on the TV/VCR Combo and insert a video cassette.
- On the remote, press VCR. Press and hold Setup until the VCR key blinks twice, then release Setup.
- Use the Setup Codes for TV/VCR Combos (page 19) to find your brand's code. Enter the four-digit code. The VCR key should blink twice. (If it doesn't blink twice after the last digit, repeat steps 2-3).
- Aim the remote at the TV/VCR Combo and press Power. The unit should turn off. If not, repeat steps 2-3 with other codes for your brand. If unsuccessful, use "Searching For Your Code" (page 23).
- If a separate TV code is listed, program it for volume control (see "Programming Other Device Control" on page 11). If no separate TV code, follow these steps for volume control:
- Press and hold Setup until VCR key blinks twice, release Setup.
- Enter 9 - 9 - 3. VCR key blinks twice.
- Press VCR once. VCR key blinks twice.
- Record the working TV/VCR Code and TV Code (if used).
Manufacturer's Codes
Extensive lists of setup codes for TVs, VCRs, TV/VCR Combos, DVRs, DVD Players, Stereo Receivers, and Stereo Amplifiers are provided on pages 14 through 22.
Searching For Your Code
If your device is not listed or codes don't work, use the search function.
Example for TV:
- Turn on your TV.
- On the remote, press TV. Press and hold Setup until the TV key blinks twice, then release Setup.
- Enter 9 - 9 - 1. The TV key blinks twice.
- Aim the remote at the TV and slowly press Power, then TV, alternating until the TV turns off.
- Press Setup to lock the code.
- Repeat for other devices, substituting the appropriate device key (VCR, AUX, SAT).
Checking The Codes
After using the "Searching For Your Code" procedure, you can verify the four-digit code being used.
Example for TV:
- Turn on your TV.
- On the remote, press TV. Press and hold Setup until the TV key blinks twice, then release Setup.
- Enter 9 - 9 - 0.
- To find the first digit, press 1. Wait 3 seconds and count LED blinks (e.g., 3 blinks = 3). Write this number in the TV Code box on page 12. (A "0" digit means no blink).
- Repeat step 4 three times for the remaining digits, using 2 for the second, 3 for the third, and 4 for the fourth digit. Record the full code.
- Repeat for other devices, substituting the appropriate key (VCR, AUX, SAT) and recording codes on pages 10 and 12.
Using The Master Power Key
The Master Power key allows sequential on/off control of all home entertainment devices.
- Point the remote at the devices.
- Press and hold Power for 3 seconds. The remote will then sequentially turn devices on or off.
The order of operation depends on the currently selected mode (SAT, TV, VCR, AUX). The remote defaults to SAT mode after all devices are turned off.
Start Mode | Device On/Off | End Mode |
---|---|---|
SAT | TV, VCR, AUX | SAT |
TV | VCR, AUX, SAT | SAT |
VCR | AUX, SAT, TV | SAT |
AUX | SAT, TV, VCR | SAT |
Re-Assigning Device Keys
You can re-assign unused keys (like AUX) to control a second TV or VCR, or other combinations of up to four devices.
Example: Re-assign AUX to control a second VCR:
- Press AUX. Press and hold Setup until AUX key blinks twice, then release Setup.
- Enter 9 - 9 - 2.
- Press VCR, then AUX. The AUX key blinks twice.
- The AUX key is now ready to be programmed for your second VCR (see "Programming Other Device Control" on page 11).
Refer to the chart for other re-assignment sequences.
To Re-Assign | Perform Key Sequence |
---|---|
VCR as 2nd TV key: | Setup - 9 - 9 - 2 - TV - VCR |
VCR as 2nd AUX key: | Setup - 9 - 9 - 2 - AUX - VCR |
VCR as 2nd SAT key: | Setup - 9 - 9 - 2 - SAT - VCR |
VCR back to VCR: | Setup - 9 - 9 - 2 - VCR - VCR |
AUX as 2nd TV key: | Setup - 9 - 9 - 2 - TV - AUX |
AUX as 2nd VCR key: | Setup - 9 - 9 - 2 - VCR - AUX |
AUX as 2nd SAT key: | Setup - 9 - 9 - 2 - SAT - AUX |
AUX back to AUX: | Setup - 9 - 9 - 2 - AUX - AUX |
A blinking mode key confirms re-assignment. You will then need to program device control.
Changing Volume Lock
The remote controls volume through the TV, VCR, or SAT mode. AUX mode controls the auxiliary device's volume separately. You can change which device controls the volume.
To Change Volume Lock To The VCR Mode:
- Press VCR. Press and hold Setup until VCR key blinks twice, release Setup.
- Enter 9 - 9 - 3.
- Press VCR once. It will blink twice.
- Volume will now be controlled by your VCR.
To Change Volume Lock To The SAT Mode (Selected Models Only):
- Press SAT. Press and hold Setup until SAT key blinks twice, then release Setup.
- Enter 9 - 9 - 3.
- Press SAT once. It will blink twice.
- Volume will now be controlled by your satellite receiver.
To Change Volume Lock To The AUX Mode:
Note: This allows auxiliary device volume control in all modes.
- Press AUX. Press and hold Setup until AUX key blinks twice, release Setup.
- Enter 9 - 9 - 3.
- Press AUX once. It will blink twice.
- Volume will now be controlled by your auxiliary device.
To Change Volume Lock Back To The TV Mode:
- Press TV. Press and hold Setup until TV key blinks twice, then release Setup.
- Enter 9 - 9 - 3.
- Press TV once. It will blink twice.
- Volume will again be controlled by your TV.
Troubleshooting
PROBLEM | SOLUTION |
---|---|
Mode key does not blink when you press a key. | Replace batteries with two (2) new AA alkaline batteries (see page 8). |
Mode key blinks, but device does not respond. | Ensure the remote is aimed at the device and within 15 feet. |
Remote does not control devices or commands are improper. | Try all listed codes for the device brand. Ensure devices are IR-controllable. |
TV/VCR combo does not respond properly. | Use VCR codes for the brand. Some combos may need both TV and VCR codes (see page 12). |
No volume on a second TV. | Follow instructions in "Changing Volume Lock" (see page 27). |
Channel ▲, Channel ▼, and Previous CH do not work for RCA TV. | Due to RCA design (1983-1987), only the original remote operates these functions. |
Changing channels does not work properly. | If the original remote required ENTER, press ENTER on this remote after entering a channel number. |
Tried "Search Method" and could not find a working code. | Retry "Search Method" after clearing the device key: Press and hold Setup until mode key blinks twice, release. Enter 9 - 9 - 2. Press and release the device key twice. |
Remote does not turn on Sony or Sharp TV/VCR Combo. | Program TV codes: For Sony, use TV code 0000 and VCR code 0032. For Sharp, use TV code 0093 and VCR code 0048. |
Repair Or Replacement Policy
If the DIRECTV® Universal Remote Control malfunctions, DIRECTV may repair or replace it under the following conditions:
- You are a DIRECTV customer with an account in good standing.
- The problem was not caused by abuse, mishandling, alteration, accident, failure to follow instructions, or unauthorized service.
The remote is provided "AS IS" for non-commercial, residential use. DIRECTV disclaims all warranties, express or implied, including warranties of merchantability, non-infringement, or fitness for a particular purpose. DIRECTV does not warrant that the remote will be error-free. No oral or written advice shall create a warranty.
DIRECTV is not liable for indirect, incidental, special, or consequential damages, including loss of revenues or inability to use the remote, even if advised of the possibility of such losses. State laws may limit liability.
Additional Information
This product has no user-serviceable parts. Opening the case (except the battery cover) may cause permanent damage.
For help:
- Visit DIRECTV.com
- Call technical support: 1-800-DIRECTV (347-3288)
Copyright 2003 by DIRECTV, Inc. Reproduction or transmission of this publication in any form or by any means is prohibited without prior written permission from DIRECTV, Inc.
DIRECTV and the Cyclone Design logo are registered trademarks of DIRECTV, Inc., a unit of Hughes Electronics Corp.
Model MDTV6 for use with the DTVURC3B, DIRECTV Universal Remote Control.
Publication Date: 03/03