Logitech Harmony 650 Remote User Manual

Introduction

The Logitech Harmony 650 remote is designed for effortless home entertainment. With one-button Activities, you can seamlessly switch between watching TV, a DVD, or listening to music. The guided online setup process, facilitated by My Harmony software, ensures a smooth configuration, allowing you to relax and enjoy your entertainment system quickly.

This User Manual provides comprehensive information for both new Harmony users and experienced individuals, guiding you through the setup and operation of your Harmony 650.

Getting to Know Your Harmony 650

How Your Harmony 650 Works

The Harmony 650 is an Activity-based infrared (IR) universal remote control. Using Harmony software, you can configure it to control up to 5 devices. Its Smart State Technology® allows it to track the status of your devices, ensuring it always knows which devices are powered on.

Devices, Inputs, and Activities

To maximize the use of your Harmony 650, understanding these terms is essential:

• Devices: Components of your entertainment system, such as TVs, cable boxes, DVD players, or game consoles.
• Inputs: Connections on the back of devices used to link them together. Switching inputs is necessary when changing from one activity to another (e.g., from watching TV to playing a DVD). For instance, if your DVD player is connected via HDMI 1, your TV must be set to HDMI 1 to view the DVD.
• Activities: Actions performed within your entertainment system, like watching TV, listening to music, or gaming. The Harmony remote automates these by using a single button to power on all necessary devices and set them to the correct inputs. For example, the 'Watch TV' button might activate your TV, cable/satellite receiver, and audio receiver, setting the correct audio and video inputs. For more on selecting Activities, see 'Selecting an Activity' on page 4.

The Buttons on Your Harmony 650

The buttons on the Harmony 650 have various functions that can change depending on the selected Activity or device. Refer to 'Changing buttons for a device or Activity' on page 15 for more details.

• All Off: Powers down all devices in the current Activity.
• Activity Buttons (e.g., Watch TV, Watch a Movie, Listen to Music): Initiate specific Activities. The 'More Activities' button displays a list of all configured Activities.
• Help: Accesses the on-remote help feature. See 'Using the Help button' on page 6 for more information.
• Arrow Buttons: Navigate through options on the remote's screen. The center button and side buttons select options.
• Menu: Opens the menu on the screen of the selected device.
• Exit: Closes the menu or guide on the device's screen.
• Info: Opens the information section of the guide for the selected device.
• Guide: Opens the guide for the selected device.
• Page Up/Page Down Arrows: Quickly scroll through menus or guides on the device's screen.
• Color-Coded Buttons: Perform functions for cable, satellite, and teletext.
• Volume Buttons: Adjust the volume for the selected device.
• Directional Pad Arrows: Navigate through menus or on-screen guides.
• Channel Button: Changes channels.
• Mute Button: Silences the audio.
• Previous Channel Button: Returns to the last viewed channel.
• Playback Controls: Buttons for play, pause, fast forward, rewind, skip, etc., for PVRs, DVD players, or VCRs.
• Number Pad (0-9): Used for channel selection or entering numbers.
• Enter Button: Confirms a selection from the number pad.
• Clear Button: Clears entries from the number pad or enters a decimal for HD channels.

What's on the Harmony 650's Screen

• Activities: When an Activity button is pressed, the corresponding commands appear on the screen, applicable to the devices used in that Activity. For example, during a 'Watch a DVD' Activity, commands for the DVD player, TV, and other related devices are displayed. Pressing 'More Activities' shows all defined Activities.
• Devices: In device mode (accessed via the center button), a list of your devices is shown. Selecting a device displays its available commands.
• Favorite Channels: Accessible within the 'Watch TV' Activity by selecting 'Favorites'. If more than four favorites are set, use the screen buttons to navigate pages. Press the button next to a channel number or icon to select it.
• IR Status Indicator: Located in the bottom right corner, this indicator flashes when a command is being sent.

Navigating Screen Options

The buttons surrounding the remote's screen facilitate navigation:

• Arrow Buttons: Move through options.
• Side Buttons: Select options.
• Center Button: Switches between Activities and devices, or returns to the device list.
• Screen Corner Indicator: Shows the current page number and the total number of pages.

Using Your Harmony 650

Selecting an Activity

Start an Activity by pressing its dedicated button or by selecting it from the list shown after pressing the 'More Activities' button. The Harmony 650 manages device power and input switching automatically.

Using the Remote Assistant

The Remote Assistant guides you through Activities after syncing or when starting an Activity. It confirms device status and proper configuration. You can temporarily disable it via the 'Turn off Assistant' option on the screen; it will reappear after the next sync.

Controlling Your Devices Individually

For functions not covered by an Activity (e.g., picture-in-picture), you can control devices individually. Press the center button to access the device list, select your device, and then choose the desired command using the arrow and side buttons. Press the center button again to return to Activities mode.

? If you frequently switch to device mode for specific functions, consider adding them to an Activity. See 'Setting up Activities' on page 9.

Using Your Favorite Channels

Set up favorite channels for your TV or cable/satellite receiver. To select a favorite channel:

1. Press the 'Watch TV' button.
2. Select 'Favorites' on the remote's screen.
3. If you have multiple pages of favorites, use the screen buttons to navigate.
4. Press the button next to the channel number or icon to select it.

Turning Off Your Devices

Press the 'All Off' button to power down all devices in the current Activity. You do not need to manually turn off devices when switching between Activities, as the Harmony 650 handles this automatically.

Using the Help Button

The Help button assists in resolving issues where the Harmony 650 might be out of sync with your devices due to obstacles or distance. Follow these steps:

1. Press the Help button on the remote.
2. Answer the on-screen questions. The Harmony 650 will resend commands to re-sync your devices.
3. For advanced help, press and hold the Help button for 5 seconds.

If the problem persists after multiple uses of the Help feature, the system may ask further questions to resolve it permanently. Ensure any physical obstructions are removed before using the Help feature.

Setting Up Your Harmony 650 for the First Time

Overview

The setup process uses the My Harmony online tool, which guides you through these steps:

1. Creating Your User Account: Set up an account on MyHarmony.com, potentially downloading necessary software.
2. Connecting Your Harmony 650 to Your Computer: Ensure communication between your computer and the remote via USB.
3. Setting Up Devices: Enter manufacturer and model numbers for your entertainment system components, using the 'Device worksheet' (page 11) for reference. Note connections and inputs for devices with multiple options.
4. Setting Up Activities: Configure one-button Activities to simplify device operation and input switching.
5. Syncing the Remote: Transfer your setup information from your computer to the remote.

After initial setup and syncing, you can modify your configuration and add favorite channels. Refer to 'Changing your setup' on page 13.

Gathering Device Information

? To streamline setup, complete the 'Device worksheet' beforehand to have all necessary information readily available.

Locating Manufacturer and Model Numbers

Manufacturer names and model numbers are typically found on a label on the front, back, or side of a device, or within its user manual. Tips for identification:

• Manufacturer: Often referred to as 'make' or 'brand name'. Look on the front or label. Examples: Sony®, Phillips®, DirecTV®.
• Model Number: May be labeled 'Model' or 'M/N'. Check labels on the component or consult the user manual. Note that model numbers can differ from model names, and serial numbers (SN) are distinct and usually longer. Examples: RC-QN3BK, Explorer 3100.

Connecting Your Harmony 650 to Your Computer

Connect the Harmony 650 to your computer using the provided USB cable. Plug the smaller end into the remote and the larger end into a USB port on your computer. A Welcome screen will appear upon successful connection.

Diagram: A Logitech Harmony 650 remote connected via USB cable to a laptop computer. An icon indicating USB connection is shown between them.

Setting Up the Devices You Want to Control

Follow the on-screen prompts in My Harmony to add your entertainment devices. You will need to provide the manufacturer and model number for each device. Use the 'Device worksheet' on page 11 to gather this information. For devices with multiple inputs (like TVs and AV receivers), specify connected devices and their corresponding inputs.

Note: If you wish to add devices later, refer to 'Adding and changing devices' on page 13.

Setting Up Activities

Once devices are identified, you can set up Activities. An Activity automates tasks like watching TV or playing a game. A single button press powers on the necessary devices and sets the correct inputs. For example, 'Watch a Movie' might turn on your TV and DVD player, switching the TV to the correct input.

Diagram: Three steps illustrated: 1. Remote control sending signal. 2. HDMI 1 input on a TV. 3. A DVD player labeled 'PLAY'.

My Harmony guides you through setting up the 'Watch TV' Activity and others based on your added devices. You'll select devices for each Activity and specify which ones control specific functions (e.g., channel selection, volume). If a device has multiple inputs, My Harmony will prompt you to specify which input is used. Consult 'Determining your inputs' on page 10 if unsure.

Updating the Remote

After adding Activities, click 'Sync' to transfer the setup to your Harmony 650. Once updated, disconnect the remote and test your setup. Refer to 'Testing your remote' on page 12 for detailed instructions.

Determining Your Inputs

Accurately determining device inputs is crucial for setting up Activities. This section provides guidance:

Step 1 – Turn On All Your Devices

Power on all entertainment system devices and play content (e.g., from a DVD player) to easily identify connections. Use the 'Device worksheet' (page 11) to track input usage.

Step 2 – Watch the TV

Using your TV's original remote, cycle through each input and note which device is connected to it. For example, if switching to HDMI 1 shows your DVD playing, then your DVD player is connected to HDMI 1.

Step 3 – Listen to the Sound

If you use a separate audio receiver, use its remote to cycle through inputs. Note which device's audio is heard for each input. For example, hearing DVD audio through OPTICAL 1 indicates the DVD player is connected to OPTICAL 1.

Device Worksheet

This worksheet helps you gather essential information about your entertainment system components for setting up your Harmony remote. List devices, manufacturers, model numbers, and input connections.

Tip Center: How to Find Model Numbers

Model numbers are typically found on a label on the front, back, side, or bottom of a component. They may differ from the model name and are distinct from serial numbers (SN).

Tips for Identifying Manufacturer: Look for 'make' or 'brand name', often on the front or label. Examples: Sony®, Phillips®, DirecTV®.

Tips for Identifying Model Number: Look for 'Model' or 'M/N'. If the number isn't on the component, check the user manual. Examples: RC-QN3BK, CT-36XF36C.

If you cannot find the model number on the component itself, the user manual that came with your component should list the manufacturer and model number.

Once all information is gathered, use it to continue setting up your Harmony remote on your computer.

Testing Your Remote

After each update, test your Harmony 650 to ensure it functions as expected. If issues arise, consult 'Troubleshooting problems with your Harmony 650' on page 17.

Testing involves trying out your most-used Activities and using the on-remote help if needed. You may need to return to My Harmony to adjust settings.

To Begin Testing Your Remote:

1. Disconnect the USB cable. The Harmony 650 tutorial may appear on the screen if it's the first update.
2. Ensure all entertainment system devices are turned off.
3. Follow any on-screen tutorial instructions.
4. Test each of your Activities.
5. If an Activity fails, use the Help button to re-sync. Retest any Activities where Help was used.

Testing Your Setup – Starting an Activity

Check that:

• All devices for the Activity are on.
• The correct sound is playing.
• The correct picture is displayed on the TV (if applicable).

Testing Your Setup – Switching Between Activities

Check that:

• All necessary devices for the new Activity are on.
• Unnecessary devices are turned off.
• The correct sound is playing.
• The correct picture is displayed on the TV (if applicable).

Changing Your Setup

You can modify your Harmony 650 setup by adding new devices, favorite channels, or changing button functions. Access these options by logging into your MyHarmony.com account and following the online instructions.

Adding and Changing Activities

Modify Activities by adding or removing devices and adjusting input or control options. Follow the steps on MyHarmony.com and sync your remote afterward.

Adding and Changing Devices

Add or change controlled devices by following the instructions on MyHarmony.com and syncing your remote. Note that the Harmony 650 supports a maximum of 5 devices.

Important: If you delete a device, any Activities using it will also be deleted. Modify Activities first if replacing a device, then add the new device, update Activities, and finally delete the old one.

Adding a Passthrough Device to an Activity

A passthrough device allows a signal to pass through unaltered. For example, if you use a DVD recorder or VCR to record shows from a cable/satellite receiver, you might add the recorder as a passthrough device to the 'Watch TV' Activity.

Diagrams:

• Setup 1: Digital Cable/Satellite Receiver -> DVD Recorder -> TV.
• Setup 2: Digital Cable/Satellite Receiver -> A/V Switch -> TV. Another line shows VCR -> A/V Switch. A DVD Player also connects to the A/V Switch. The DVD Recorder and A/V Switch are identified as passthrough devices in these examples.

Changing Buttons for a Device or Activity

Customize button functions for specific devices or Activities. For instance, you can map a TV's picture-in-picture feature to a remote button. Use My Harmony to add or customize button functions for any device or Activity.

Follow the instructions on MyHarmony.com to change button functions for both fixed buttons and screen options, including their labels.

Teaching Commands Using Your Old Remote

If a command is missing or not working correctly on your Harmony remote, you can teach it using your original remote. Go to MyHarmony.com, sign in, and follow the instructions to add or fix commands.

Diagram: A Logitech Harmony 650 remote and an older remote, with wavy lines indicating signal transmission.

Naming Conventions for Commands

Logitech suggests these conventions for naming commands:

• Avoid spaces and special characters (/, &, *).
• Capitalize the first letter of each word (e.g., NextDisc, ModeDigital).
• Start command names with their primary function (e.g., VolumeRearUp) for grouping.
• Prefix input-selecting commands with 'Input' (e.g., InputHDMI1).
• Name inputs based on connection type, not the connected device (e.g., InputHDMI1, InputVideo1).

Commands can also be taught while adding devices, fixing settings, or addressing missing commands.

Setting Up Favorite Channels

Configure favorite channels for your TV or cable/satellite receiver. If you have multiple channel-changing devices, set up favorites within the 'Watch TV' Activity for the primary channel-changing device. Follow the instructions on MyHarmony.com to set up favorite channels. They will appear on the remote's screen when you select 'Favorites' within the 'Watch TV' Activity.

Troubleshooting Problems with Your Harmony 650

This section addresses common issues and solutions:

• TV Not Going to the Right Input: Verify Activity setup in My Harmony for correct inputs. Ensure inputs are ordered correctly for cycling.
• Incorrect Model Number Message: Model numbers are usually on device labels (front, back, side, bottom) or in the user manual. They are distinct from serial numbers. If a model number cannot be found, use the original remote to teach commands (see page 15).
• 'On Demand' Command Missing: Map the command to an unused button or teach it using your original remote if it's not in the database. See page 15 for instructions.
• Harmony Unable to Communicate with Harmony 650:
  • Ensure the USB cable is securely connected to both the computer and remote.
  • Avoid using USB hubs; connect directly to a computer USB port.
  • Unplug and replug the USB cable at both ends.
  • Close and reopen your browser, then return to My Harmony.
  • Try a different USB port on your computer.
  • Temporarily disable antivirus, firewall, or pop-up blocker software.
  • Restart your computer.

Getting Help with Your Harmony 650

Support resources are available through MyHarmony.com:

1. Go to MyHarmony.com.
2. Sign into your account.
3. Click 'Support'.

Support options include:

• FAQs: Searchable customer questions and answers.
• Community Forums: Discuss issues and solutions with other Logitech users at http://forums.logitech.com.
• Support Staff: Contact Logitech Support via phone or email.

Using the On-Remote Help

For troubleshooting device power or input issues, use the remote's Help button. Answer the on-screen questions to re-synchronize your Harmony 650 with your entertainment system. See 'Using the Help button' on page 6.

Glossary

• Activity: An action within your entertainment system (e.g., watching TV) automated by the remote to power devices and set inputs with a single button press.
• Amplifier: A stereo component that outputs audio to speakers and boosts signal levels.
• Aspect Ratio: The ratio of image width to height (e.g., 4:3, 16:9).
• A/V Switch: A device that routes audio/video signals from multiple sources to an output device.
• Device: A component in your home entertainment system.
• DVD Recorder (DVR): Records and plays video, similar to a VCR, with AV inputs.
• Input: Connections on device backs for linking components.
• In Sync: The state where the Harmony 650 accurately tracks device status (on/off, last input used). If out of sync, commands can re-establish synchronization.
• IR (Infrared): Signal type used by most remote controls, requiring line-of-sight.
• Mini-system: A combined unit of DVD, VCR, radio, and amplifier functions; also known as a home theater or cinema.
• Output Device: Produces sound or picture (e.g., TV, speakers).
• Passthrough: A device that routes signals without alteration.
• Personal Video Recorder (PVR): Records and plays video, offering features like pause, rewind, and slow-motion playback. Examples include TiVo and cable/satellite receiver PVRs.
• Receiver: A tuner or stereo receiver that tunes broadcast signals or AM/FM radio, often including preamplifier and amplifier components.
• RF (Radio Frequency): Used by some remotes, does not require line-of-sight.

Product Specification