As to the current generation, most people have learned to embrace technology. But unfortunately, all the devices in your smart home come with their remote, leading to clutter. That’s why the universal remote is very recommendable, as it enables you to control all of your devices simultaneously.
So, the question is, do universal remote work on non-smart TV. Read on to find out the answer to the question and much more.
Do you have a particular question about using universal remotes on non-smart TV? Then use the table of contents below to jump to the most relevant section. And you can always go back by clicking on the black arrow in the right bottom corner of the page. Also, please note that some of the links in this article may be affiliate links. For more details, check the Disclosure section at the bottom of the page.
Here's what we'll cover:
How does a universal remote work?
As for now, you know that a universal remote is meant to ease the control of smart home devices.
First, let’s look at how the universal remote works. Like most remotes, it uses infrared light and radio waves to transmit commands to the receiver device. A universal remote is programmed to have many codes when you press a single button.
Different devices use different codes for the same functions. For example, the power button on remotes has other codes hence working on the specified device. But for the universal remote, when the power button is pressed, it has many types of code, making it work on different devices.
Do universal remote work on a non-smart TV?
Yes, there are many universal remote controls you can use on a non-smart TV. A good example is the Lean Remote – Universal Remote control, compatible with most Television models. The best part is that you can download a universal control app on your phone and use it to manage your non-smart TV.
Types of universal remotes
There are many types of universal remotes. They can be categorized in many ways, but I will look at how they are programmed. In this category, there are two types:
Multiband
This type is already programmed with several codes to operate your basic devices. You don’t need to put any codes by yourself with the already preprogrammed one. They are convenient if you are not familiar with coding. As with every device, there are some disadvantages. This one only controls the main functions and works on four devices.
Learning
This type is very fascinating to tech and code geeks. As the name implies, this universal remote can learn code from other remotes. Hold your original and learning remote and place them head-to-head. When you press the buttons on the original remote, the learning remote will duplicate the commands from the original remote using the transmitted via infrared. I recommend this type as it can copy codes applicable to most devices.
Programming electronics with universal control
There are several ways to do this, but here is the basic method.
- Install the batteries to your remote.
- Then point the remote to the device you want to control and ensure it remains that way. If changed, you will have to restart the process all over again.
- Press and hold the button you want to set.
- Then enter the code from the device brand, and if more than one, start with the first one.
- Next, hold the button, and when the power button lights up and stays on, it’s the correct code.
- It will blink several times when the wrong code is entered, try all the codes listed by the brand till one works.
- Then test for the basic controls.
What to consider when buying a universal remote control?
Now you know that the universal remote can work on your no-smart TV. However, do you know which remote to purchase or the factors to consider before purchasing?
Don’t worry, as we will guide you through. While universal remotes have different features, here are some things to look out for.
● Method of code transmission. Does it use radio waves or infrared waves?
● Price. Is it within your budget?
● Type of universal remote. Multiband or learning. Choose this according to your remote programming capability.
● How many devices it can control.
Wrap up
If you wondered if universal remotes work on non-smart TV, you know. Apart from your non-smart TV, a universal will also come in handy in controlling other devices in your home. Thankfully, you can download an app and use your phone as a remote control, even for a non-smart TV.
Credits: Thanks for the photo to Canva.
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