Universal remote controls serve a useful purpose. Logitech's Harmony controllers are among the most popular on the market. Unfortunately, they are known to have complicated setups.
The Harmony Elite, which was launched in 2015, is among the Easiest Universal remote controls to use. If you have already purchased a Harmony Elite or are considering purchasing one, this guide is for you.
Logitech Harmony Elite Remote Control, Hub and App, works with Alexa Logitech Harmony Elite Remote Control, Hub and App, works with Alexa Buy Now On Amazon $249.00
The first Harmony remote came in 2001 by Easy Zapper from Canada, which later became Intrigue Technologies. The company became part of computer peripheral manufacturer Logitech in 2004.
Growing out of the original Harmony remote, Logitech Harmony is an automated platform consisting of universal remotes, smartphone apps, and a hub. Via Infrared (IR) Infrared Everywhere:Extending Harmony Ultimate Remote to Multiple Rooms Infrared Everywhere:Extending Harmony Ultimate Remote to Multiple Rooms The Harmony Ultimate series is a fantastic kit that simplifies the mass of remotes in your living room . reprogrammed to control anything that works infrared. Using more information, or radio frequency (RF), this system can control various home electronics, including televisions, cable boxes, and next-generation smart devices.
Before 2015, you needed to set up a Logitech Harmony controller to use a Mac or PC. This process, which required plugging a controller into the computer's USB port, was tedious at best. With the Logitech Harmony Elite, setup is done through a mobile device app. This change makes the installation process much easier for experienced technicians and beginners alike.
Out of the box, the Logitech Harmony Elite includes a remote, the Harmony Hub, a charging station, a USB cable, a power adapter, and two mini IR blasters. The first step in the setup process is to place the remote in the charging station and power it up. Make sure to place the station in the same room as the Harmony Hub.
Locate the Harmony Hub in any unobstructed location where IR signals can be transmitted to your equipment. The front of your TV room is ideal. Harmony Hub can also be placed in closed cabinets if you plan on using mini IR blasters. Once plugged into a wall outlet, the Harmony Hub takes approximately 30 seconds to power on. During this time, please download the free Harmony app on your smartphone.
You do not need a fully charged remote to complete the setup process. In fact, keep it in the charging station at this point. Instead, select the Set up new remote button in the Harmony app.
Within the app, you will first be prompted to connect the hub to your home wireless network. You'll also need to create a Harmony account and then sign in.
Now comes the fun part. The next step in the setup process is to scan your Wi-Fi network through the app to connect devices that can be controlled by Harmony. You can also add home entertainment devices that are not found during the Wi-Fi scan, including TVs, video streaming boxes The 8 Best Devices to Stream Movies to Your TV The 8 Best Devices to Stream Movies to Your TV There are There are several ways to stream media to your TV, and deciding which way is right for you can be overwhelming. Let us help you explore what is currently available. Read More
Harmony also works with a range of smart devices including lights How to control your custom RGB lighting from a Harmony remote How to control your custom RGB lighting from a Harmony remote If you have a Harmony remote, you probably know that it can now be controlled by the "light bulb Connected" from Phillips Hue:a set of $200 Wi-Fi-enabled LED bulbs but with an exorbitant price tag. But, did you know that… Read more, locks, thermostats and home control platforms?.
The Elite drives up to 15 AV devices. However, it's best to add just a few to start with. The goal is to complete the Harmony setup process. You can add other devices at any time.
As you add devices, you will be prompted to create Activities for each device. Sample activities include Watching TV, Listening to Music, and Listening to Sonos The Best AirPlay Speakers You Can Buy Right Now The Best AirPlay Speakers You Can Buy Right Now Learn more. Logitech Harmony includes many activities, many of which are device specific. They are all intuitive..
For example, Logitech calculates that “Playing Xbox” means turning on a TV and starting playing on your Microsoft Xbox One 6 Xbox One Games With Easy Achievements You Can Get Now 6 Xbox One Games With Easy Achievements You Can Get Now Want to earn some gamerscore? These Xbox One games will send you shooting up the leaderboards. Read more . Or that “View TV Buying Guide:How To Choose The Right TV For Your Living Room TV Buying Guide:How To Choose The Right TV For Your Living Room When it comes to buying a TV, there's a lot more to it. what's on a spec sheet. By the end of this guide, you'll know exactly how to choose the right TV. Read More” could mean turning on your TV and Sonos soundboard.
Because these devices are on your network, Harmony will suggest these activities during the setup process. You can add many more as new devices arrive in your home.
Logitech Harmony tests each activity before adding it to your list. Doing so saves you time and eliminates frustration. After all, aren't universal remotes supposed to make your life easier?
Another point . Before setup is complete, Logitech Harmony will check for the software update. When an update is available, take the time to install it. If you don't, the system will continue to bother you.
You've probably noticed that we haven't discussed the actual Logitech Harmony remote. That's deliberate on two fronts.
First of all, we can't stress enough how useful it is not to need a Mac or PC to set up Harmony Elite. Using a USB cable with previous models was a painful process, at best, especially for those who are uncomfortable with technology. Add in the premium cost of these controllers and the Logitech Harmony was a tough sell.
With Logitech Harmony Elite, everything is controlled by the app, including daily operations. As you add devices and activities, the Harmony Hub syncs with your network. In other words, you can use the Harmony Elite remote or stick with the app. The decision is yours.
Logitech Harmony Elite Remote Control, Hub and App, works with Alexa Logitech Harmony Elite Remote Control, Hub and App, works with Alexa Buy Now On Amazon $249.00
In the coming weeks, we will publish more articles about Logitech Harmony. These posts will help you get the most out of your new controller.
Until then, which universal remote do you use?
