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Logitech Harmony 900
Manufacturer: Logitech Part number: 915-000030
- More product information:
- Editors' review
- User reviews
- Specifications
- Manufacturer info
- Bottom Line:
- The Logitech Harmony 900 is, hands down, the best universal remote control we've ever tested.
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CNET editors' review
Logitech Harmony 900 price range: $249.88 - $299.99
- Reviewed by: David Carnoy
- Edited by: John P. Falcone
- Reviewed on: 08/11/2009
- Updated on:01/27/2010
The good: Sleek design, in terms of cosmetics and ergonomics; PC programmable; excellent button layout and design that now includes new Blu-ray-centric buttons; high-resolution LCD that offers a touch-screen interface and touch-sensitive buttons for navigation of onscreen menus; rechargeable lithium ion battery and docking station; RF option included--and it's very easy to set up.
The bad: Price will scare off some buyers; PS3 control requires add-on dongle; dearth of user-programmable multi-device macros will frustrate advanced users.
The bottom line: The Logitech Harmony 900 is, hands down, the best universal remote control we've ever tested.
Editors' note (January 27, 2010): Some Harmony 900, 1000, and 1100 users may experience difficulty connecting their remotes to the Harmony software when using Mac OS 10.6 (Snow Leopard). More information on specific symptoms and the appropriate solutions is available at Logitech's Web site.
Confused about how this model stacks up to other Harmony remotes? See CNET's Which Logitech universal remote is right for you? for updated comparisons and recommendations.
Editors' note: This review has been updated to specify that the Logitech Harmony 900 does not support the programming of customized multi-step macro commands beyond those of the automatic activity-based menu system.
When we reviewed the Harmony One last year, we gave it an enthusiastic Editors' Choice and lamented only the fact that there was no RF option for people who had components hidden in cabinets or closets. Well, Logitech has given us what we asked for--and even a bit more--in its Harmony 900.
The remote looks almost identical to the Harmony One except for some small-but-notable improvements. For starters, Logitech has increased the sharpness of the screen; this isn't a huge deal, but it does give the interface a cleaner look. You can now choose between four color "themes" that put a new skin on the interface, though the looks aren't radically different from theme to theme. (We assume additional themes will be available for download).
Additionally, Logitech has added a row of buttons in the middle of the remote that correspond to the red, blue, green, and yellow tabs you'll find on Blu-ray player remotes to control interactivity options during playback of Blu-ray Discs. (These buttons are also useful for mapping to various confirmation buttons that appear on DVRs and cable/satellite boxes.)
The big step-up here is the addition of RF (radio frequency), and its implementation. With previous Harmony RF models, you had to set up the remote and RF separately by connecting both the remote and RF module to your computer via the USB port. Every time you updated the remote, you had to update the RF module, which was a major pain if you had an intricate setup and had to take the RF module out of a cabinet or closet each time you updated the remote.
With the Harmony 900, Logitech's gone to a whole new RF system and has greatly simplified the setup and update processes. The big deal here is that you no longer have to connect the RF module to your computer--you can just leave it setup in your rack or cabinet and choose which components you want to control via IR (infrared, which requires line of sight) or RF from the remote itself in a special RF setup menu.
The half-hockey-puck-size RF module is powered by a small AC adapter (it's a duplicate of the adapter that charges the remote) and is designed to be tucked into the back of your cabinet, behind your components. You then plug two mini-IR blasters into the back of the RF module (there are A and B ports) and place the blasters just in front of your components. If your components are in a cabinet with shelves, you can stick one blaster on a left shelf and one on a right shelf. The IR signals reflect off surfaces, so the two IR blasters should cover all your components, except perhaps your TV (which is always within your line of sight anyway). If two blasters don't cut it for your setup, you can buy additional RF modules and blasters.
The system we used to test the RF with wasn't in a closed cabinet with doors and the TV sat on top of the horizontal component rack. We decided to let IR control the TV and RF control the rest of the components. Because we had one IR adapter on a lower shelf next to the AV receiver, we were a little worried that it wouldn't be able to control the cable box on a higher shelf. However, it turned out we had no problems controlling all our components, even though the system was in an open rack with three levels and included seven components (not including the TV). Alas, the only unit that we couldn't control was our PlayStation 3, which uses Bluetooth and has no IR receiver. In an ideal world the Harmony 900 would offer Bluetooth connectivity, but we can't fault Logitech for Sony's stupidity. Thankfully, there's now a workaround: Logitech offers a PS3-specific IR-to-Bluetooth converter module for $60.
As we said in our earlier review of the Harmony One, Logitech's done an excellent job with the cosmetics and ergonomics. The remote is sleek and sits comfortably in your hand. A lot of thought has been put into the button layout, with hard, backlit buttons that are differentiated in size and shape, so you can navigate by feel without looking down at the remote (at least when performing basic operations like changing channels, adjusting volume, and play/pause). While the remote does appear to be loaded with buttons, it actually has fewer of them than previous Harmony remotes. The remote is essentially divided into five zones of operation (they're designated by faint, silver lined), with the color LCD at the top constituting the fifth zone.
The touch screen on this model is as responsive as the Harmony One. We also really liked the two glowing touch-sensitive buttons on either side of the screen that allow you to easily scroll between the "pages" of soft buttons on the screen (there's room for up to three layers of two buttons on the screen at once). Additionally, two glowing touch-sensitive buttons allow you to toggle between "options," "devices," and "activities." The touch-oriented interface really makes the remote a pleasure to use.
The Harmony 900 ships with a docking station for juicing up the included rechargeable lithium ion battery; you simply place the remote in its cradle (unlike some earlier Harmony remotes, this model fits securely in its charging station). Not only is it nice to have a recharging option to save dough on batteries, another benefit of the dock is that if you're good about leaving the remote in its cradle, you'll always know where it is when you need it. Battery life is good--Logitech says you should be able to go a week or more without recharging--and it's also worth noting that the battery is replaceable.
As with all of Logitech's new remotes, the Harmony 900 features a motion sensor, so it automatically turns on when you pick it up. The LCD turns off after a short time of inactivity to conserve batteries. You can adjust the LCD's shut-off interval, as well as the brightness, in the settings menu.
In terms of programming the remote, the Harmony 900 works in the same way as other Harmony remotes. As we noted in our earlier reviews, programming a universal remote can be a frustrating and time-consuming process, involving punching a series of multidigit codes for each component in your AV system. By contrast, Harmony remotes are programmed by hooking them up to your Internet-connected Windows PC or Mac with the supplied USB cable, installing the model-specific version of Harmony software, and answering a fairly simple online questionnaire on the company's Web site. You simply choose your home-theater components from a list; explain how they're connected; and define their roles in activity-based functions, such as Watch TV, Watch DVD, and Listen to Music. For each function, you specify which devices and inputs the remote must enable. You can also choose which keypad functions will punch through to which specific devices--like always having the channel buttons control the cable box or the volume controls dedicated to the TV, for instance. After you've completed the questionnaire, the software uploads all the relevant control codes to the Harmony 900.
As simple as the remote generally is, some people may encounter a few snags when initially setting up their remotes. Luckily, Logitech's customer service is generally very good and the company has continued to make improvements to its software system. Logitech occasionally offers firmware upgrades, as well as upgrades to the Harmony desktop software. While there's still no way to manage multiple Harmony remotes on the same account (you're required to create separate user accounts, with separate names and passwords, for each of them), Logitech has made it very easy to swap in a new Harmony remote for an old one. For example, if you already had an older Harmony that you use with your main living room system, you could quickly swap in the Harmony 900, and then set up a separate profile for the old Harmony, to be used in another room.
If you have a complicated system, you can expect to spend some time fine-tuning the remote to get it to work just right, though it should be noted that our setup of the Harmony 900 went off without a hitch and we had full control over a seven-component system within 35 minutes (including the RF setup). And if you do run into trouble, you can contact Logitech's customer support by e-mail and telephone. (Note: you get 90 days of free telephone support from the time you first register your remote and set it up).
There is one change from most earlier Harmony remotes that advanced users may find annoying. Like the Harmony 1100, this model doesn't support customized user-programmable macros. To be clear: the activity-based programming that has long made Harmony models a favorite of ours is still here. So, when you hit "Watch TV," you can have your TV, AV receiver, and DVR power up and toggle to the preferred input and settings. But you cannot program separate custom multi-step commands. So, home theater enthusiasts who are used to programming the lights to come up whenever they pause the disc player (for instance) will now need to handle that sort of duty manually (with one or two additional keystrokes). We don't think it's a huge loss, but the absence of custom macro programming on such an expensive remote is notable. If it's important to you, you'll want to look elsewhere.
In terms of complaints, there just isn't much here. Beyond that macro issue, we were miffed that the remote's glossy, black finish is a fingerprint magnet and we still wish that Logitech would come up with a way you could manage multiple Harmony remotes from a single user account. Built-in Bluetooth support would be nice, but the add-on dongle works fine for PS3 owners. Outside of those, the only real issue is the remote's relatively high price tag ($399 list), which may scare off some people. But if you don't need RF, you can always default back to the IR-only Harmony One, which now retails at a more reasonable $200.
For those considering the tablet-style Harmony 1100, which also features RF, the appeal of that remote is that you get more onscreen button options, because the screen is much larger. For instance, with the 1100, when you go in TV mode as an activity, you're dropped into a screen that gives you access to more of your DVR's buttons (if you have cable or satellite box with a built-in DVR). On the Harmony 900, you have to press the "device" button to get more DVR options. However, we found that getting to our list of recorded shows required two button pushes on both remotes, so it was a bit of a wash in terms of speed.
In the end, really, it's a matter of preference. Our taste tends to run toward wand-style remotes, and we felt the Harmony 900 was more responsive and easier to use than the Harmony 1100. And unlike tablet-style touch screens, basic functions of the wand-style 900 can be largely navigated by touch. Its RF setup is also significantly better, so until Logitech upgrades the RF module and blasters that come with its tablet-style remote, the Harmony 900 is clearly the better choice. It's one of the best consumer remotes with pro aspirations that we've tested to date.
User reviews
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Don't rush to buy the new high-end Logitech remotes....
by AtreidesModi on October 27, 2009
Pros: - Ergonomic design
- Qualty and responsive touch screen display
- Good IR performance from main unit and RF extenderCons: - NO SEQUENCES (in Logitech parlance, otherwise known as key macros)
- RF control refers to RF control of an IR extender, not control of RF devicesSummary: This is probably my most troubling purchase in a number of years. As your typical techno-junkie, I stumbled onto some marketing materials for the latest line of Harmony remotes; namely ...
Summary: This is probably my most troubling purchase in a number of years. As your typical techno-junkie, I stumbled onto some marketing materials for the latest line of Harmony remotes; namely the 900 and 1100. Already owning the 880, which I liked but found to bet somewhat uncomfortable in it's ergonomic design and subsequently fell into disuse, I was already set to purchse the next generation of Harmony remotes.
As I ran out of space, I wanted to add...
TRAP 1 - The marketing gimmick was to promote these remotes with a higher model number than the prior - namely, I had an 880 - one would assume that the 900 and 1100 are at least a STEP UP. Specifically, I MADE THE ERROR thinking that the new remotes would retain functionality existent within my 880 -- PLUS some extra features like the better LCD, touch screen, ergonomic design, RF (more an upgrade from the 890), etc. NO SO!
There is a key feature which I personally have relied on in all of my previous remotes (Harmony 880, Sony's, Philips Pronto's, etc). Namely the inability to assign a series of buttons to one button. It's rather interesting to note that the Logitech Harmony Product Manager (?!) would actually write a review for his own product here (5 stars of course) and completely substantiate this lacking capability.
Well, interesting in a cynical way. My trust of the Logitech product line was betrayed in this case, because I didn't conduct the normal pre-purchase diligence which I conduct in practically every other purchase. In this case, I looked at the price point ($399!) and find few items at this price point - it's either much less or much more. Since my prior 880 model was about $200+, I figured this new model (900) must be better. Well, mud in my face on this count.
So, back to the Product Manager's statement. After spending hours dredging the forums for information about how to get a sequence on my 900, I came to the sad reality that it didn't exist. Ok, I am still a loyal Logitech customer (3 Dinovo Edges, Z5500 speakrs, Z10 speakrs, Harmony 880, and so on) and will give them the benefit of the doubt to remedy this in some upcoming firmware update. As I dug further in the forums, including a petition on Logitech's own website, it became evident that there was rush for Logitech to remedy this deficit. A call to customer support and finally reading the Product Managers comments sealed this remotes fate.
Unfortunately, to suggest that removing sequences is a design improvement and/or superseded in functionality by "Activities" is ludicrous. Activities as a concept is a basic staple of all good universal remotes. Nothing new and innovative here. It's essentially a complex sequence of steps with an awareness of device state - tracking if a device is already on / off. For example, "Watch TV', "Watch DVD", "Play Games", etc. An activity - simple.
Sequences on the other hand serve a different purpose than Activities. These are like mini-Activities which can be performed within an Activity. Let's say that your Cable Box has 4 fast forward speeds, whereby with each press of the Fast Forward Button (FF) the speed increases x1, x2, x3, and x4 respectively. Who want's to sit there pressing FF 4 times every commercial break?
Of course not, we are willing to dish out $399 for a top-end Logitech remote to simplify these tasks! No problem, go into the remote configuration and program a "new button", we can call it FFx4 which will simulate the pressing of Cable Box remote FF button 4 times. Easy. Go into the Activty, such as "Watch TV" and assign the Next Track (>>|) button to our new FFx4 sequence! Woot! Most all prior Logitech Harmony remotes, at much lower price points, have this basic and fundamental ability.
Back to our Product Manager's comments, essentially dismissing the value of the above capability of remotes in the sub-$100 range. More specifically, he noted that this feature "very few people actually used it". As I read more and more about this remote (and the 1100), it seems the "very few people" are making quite a ruckus about this discarded capability.
Sadly, I suspect this discarded capability might be indicative of a more serious issue in Logitech's business strategy. Being dismissive of the Harmony user base, those who have vocalized great concern about this missing capability, leads me to believe that there are either serious design flaws with these devices or there is a market strategy to offer these capabilities with more expensive models to be released. In either case, this is indeed cause for concern.
Hopefully I will save someone else from this grief. In my case, I have to return not only this Harmony 900; but also the Harmony 1100, 2 PS3 Adapters, and an RF Extender. For those interested, the Harmony 1100 has the exact same problem (removed sequence functionality) as the 900 model. What a huge disappointment, waste of time, and money. For several hundred dollars I expect intelligent devices, not kludges and excuses.
Updated on Oct 27, 2009
TRAP 2 - "RF controls out-of-sight devices" (from box cover, similar language elsewhere) gives the impression that remote controls RF devices - at least it gave me that impression. The reality is that this only controls an RF module, which in turn sends IR signals to devices "out of sight". Really not much different than buying those IR extenders which send an RF signal from transmitter to receiver for in-cabinet systems.
To put this in perspective, had Sequences been available I would have given this remote a 4.5 star rating. I would have dinged it for the misleading RF. Yes, a 1 star rating is all this gets due to Sequences. Because a fundamental need of mine, which I've relied on in the past and continue to, is not available in the remote. Another vendor will get my business for remote needs.
Updated on Aug 24, 2010Unfortunately, I got stuck with the remotes and accessories as my hesitancy passed the return period. After many months giving up on them, I thought I would follow up and see if by some chance with enough time passed they would have an update. Nope. The petition is still running on the Logitech site. So, if you are thinking maybe a "firmware update" will come at some point, you are likely "wishful thinking". Logitech has no intent to resolve this. Lesson learned : Think long and heard with community feedback to support future Logitech purchases. Hope other vendors see this opportunity to fill a major gap in the marketplace. Till then, caveot emptor!47 out of 54 users found this user opinion helpful.
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No Sequences or Macros! Shame on this CNET review
by Rwilliams223 on August 15, 2009
Pros: Great Form Factor
Great touch screen
Great button layoutCons: NO MACROS OR SEQUENCES!!!
This totally cripples the remote. $400 for a remote without macros? INSANE!Summary: Shame on CNET for not mentioning the removal of macros on this remote. Even their cheapest offering has macro capabilities (Sequences in Harmony-speak). This is NOT a successor to the ...
Summary: Shame on CNET for not mentioning the removal of macros on this remote. Even their cheapest offering has macro capabilities (Sequences in Harmony-speak). This is NOT a successor to the Harmony One. Looks are deceiving. It uses the same codeset as the Harmony 1100, not the Harmony One. Such a shame. Besides the Harmony 1100, this has to be the most expensive remote on the market which lacks basic macro capability.
15 out of 18 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Comment on sequences from Harmony Product Manager
by iancrowe on September 10, 2009
Pros: Controls hidden devices
Works without pointing
Easy RF setupCons: Confusion over sequences
Summary: Regarding sequences, or macros...
The most relevent use of 'sequences' are Activities, which is the core feature of every Harmony remote. When you want to watch a DVD for example, ...Summary: Regarding sequences, or macros...
The most relevent use of 'sequences' are Activities, which is the core feature of every Harmony remote. When you want to watch a DVD for example, you push a single button to turn on your TV, your DVD player and your AV receiver and switch each device to the correct input. If you desire extra functions as part of an activity, such as switching to a certain sound or picture mode, or enabling closed captions you can include those commands right in the activity. Another common use of sequences are favorite channels, where a single button press will send the 1-2-3 commands in order to tune to channel 123. Favorite channels are fully supported. It is also possible to assign individual commands to a hard button within an activity. For example, I use my Clear and Enter buttons to control my picture-in-picture functions.
At Harmony, our preference is to automate the creation of sequences by baking them in to other features based on how people actually use their remotes. Above are a few examples of sequences but with different names. Where we have offered the ability to program full command sequences as a unique feature in other remotes, very few people actually used it.
Hope this helps,
Ian Crowe, Product Manager, Harmony Remotes20 out of 36 users found this user opinion helpful.
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This is a fantastic remote. It won't sell.
by PACoug on August 17, 2009
Pros: Simplicity and user friendliness. Once you get it set up, your 5 year old can use your system.
Love being able to control zone 2 upstairs with no extra remote sensor installation.Cons: If you want to go deep into menu functions or button functions of complex pieces of gear like a $3000 receiver, the process is a pain. User friendly usually means poweruser-unfriendly--and that is the case here. But everyday use is still a joy.
Summary: This thing is too expensive for the kind of consumer who will love it.
For the consumer who will spend this much for a remote, it's too locked down....Summary: This thing is too expensive for the kind of consumer who will love it.
For the consumer who will spend this much for a remote, it's too locked down.
Once you get above about $300 I encourage you to explore custom remote systems properly set up for your home. You'll have much more control, operation will be even more simple, and the frustration level of a 'one-size-fits-most' product that doesn't quite fit will go away.
Speaking as somebody who had (and liked) the H1 but needed RF control, this remote mostly works well for me, and I've now got it set up so it's mostly perfect for both zones it controls. So I'm one of the few who considers this item a good buy.
The Wal-Mart shoppers squawking about price here aren't the target market for this thing. For Logitech's sake, I hope there are enough consumers like me who are willing to deal with the shortcomings of their approach to save a few hundred on a custom control system.11 out of 14 users found this user opinion helpful.
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No sequences (macros)! What were you thinking Logitech?
by tekn0guy on August 14, 2009
Pros: Nice screen
Cons: No sequences. Logitech has inexplicably remove sequence (macro) capabilities from this and the new 1100.
Summary: I can't believe the cnet review didn't even mention the most glaring omission in this product. Removing core features like sequences is a very disturbing trend. Even a $...
Summary: I can't believe the cnet review didn't even mention the most glaring omission in this product. Removing core features like sequences is a very disturbing trend. Even a $20 remote has macros. Even most of logitech's other remotes have sequences, albeit only 5 steps. It's truly shocking that one of their flagship models and probably all new models in the future won't have them. This product is certainly worthy of a boycott to send a strong message that destroying such a great product is unacceptable to consumers.
We had to beg and plead for years to get sequences. Then they finally relented and gave us 5 steps. Pathetic, but better than nothing. I'm flabbergasted by this latest move to take them away.
Imagine paying $400 for a remote, getting it home and trying to program a simple macro only to discover it can't be done.11 out of 15 users found this user opinion helpful.
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MISLEAD BY CNET REVIEW! very bad review from cnet!
by theddygrumo on October 10, 2009
Pros: the pros with this one is the review from the editor. the only advantage with this one over the harmony one is the RF. the old 890 is better than this.
Cons: cnet please update your rating. dont you read customers reviews? look at customers rating who actually use it in real world. we are frustrated with the lack of sequences and macros that even the cheapest remote has. how did you review this product.
Summary: very bad review from cnet editor for not mentioning the lack of sequences and macros. i could not understand how they rate this just because of the RF functionality. i ...
Summary: very bad review from cnet editor for not mentioning the lack of sequences and macros. i could not understand how they rate this just because of the RF functionality. i agree with there review with the harmony one but this review is so misleading. it made me buy this because i trust cnet review but they mislead with this one. please please update your rating. didn't you check the macros and sequences? how did you review this product?
6 out of 8 users found this user opinion helpful.
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$400 remote is no problem - lack of sequences is...
by mikeak_01 on August 27, 2009
Pros: I love the upgraded RF. It is significantly improved and works like a charm. I love the additional icons (wish you could custom make some more).
Cons: How is it possible in 2009 to release an advanced remote without macros / sequences. If anything logitech should have improved on previous limit of 5-6 commands, not remove it. CNET failed to point this out so I bought and returned it within 48hrs.
Summary: One issue makes this remote worthless. Add macros / sequences and I am buying it
Summary: One issue makes this remote worthless. Add macros / sequences and I am buying it
4 out of 5 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Save some time & money and do your homework
by g_fisher on September 15, 2009
Pros: Intuitive desktop software
Cons: Proven history of design flaws with the Harmony remote product line (especially the chargers).
Customer supportSummary: Google "harmony remote design flaw" and see all the comments about the faulty chargers on the harmony remote line. If you're looking to buy a 900, I suggest waiting ...
Summary: Google "harmony remote design flaw" and see all the comments about the faulty chargers on the harmony remote line. If you're looking to buy a 900, I suggest waiting until the bugs are worked out. I'm stuck with two harmony remotes 880 & 890 that don't charge. Harmony wont exchange them. I've wasted countless hours on the phone with Harmony customer support. It's appalling in this day and age when companies don't stand behind their products...especially when the actual replacement cost can't be that high.
My two ($600) remotes are 100%, completely, and utterly useless.3 out of 4 users found this user opinion helpful.
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As a Harmony ONE user .. This was a Huge Improvement
by JonThomasDesigns on September 10, 2009
Pros: Everything is much quicker, Fav Channel is instantaneous, The screen is a higher resolution LCD, The Help button is much better, and the new backlit Blu-ray controls are awesome ..RF is incredible easy to set up .. great range of the mini IR blasters
Cons: $400 .. but oh well ... if you dont have $400 to spend on a remote , don't buy it .. If you do its well worth it
Summary: Let me be clear i was in Love with the Harmony ONE remote,For my setup it was perfect and a joy to use ..
Even the non tech Fiancee loved ...Summary: Let me be clear i was in Love with the Harmony ONE remote,For my setup it was perfect and a joy to use ..
Even the non tech Fiancee loved it .. But the one issue we had was IR in general the components sat below the 60" tv and the coffee table reflected the IR Signal so i bought a pair of the X10 PowerMid RF to IR receivers.. They were Fine but not a perfect solution .. Slow response time and missed signals .. and mind you i still give the Harmony ONE a 10/10 rating ..
Well last weekend after a night of drinking and Playing Rock band 2 someone stepped on my Harmony ONE and broke the screen making it useless .. I was thinking about getting a replacement ONE but i knew the 900 was just released so i scooped it up ...
Now on the the Harmony 900 .. Set up was SOOO EASY ! yes you have to redo the online set up because it does not carry over but it only took me 15-20 mins to get it perfect even adding all the Channel Icons to my fav channels ..
The RF/IR blaster was incredibility easy to set up i just place it on top of my DVR and the 2 Mini IR blasters i placed on each side of the lower components .. Amazingly it hit everything on the first try each as each blaster has 4 IR nodes in it so it has amazing coverage .. RF is a HUGE difference ! I can control everything for almost any room in the house and unlike the Harmony ONE the was almost No delay at all ..
Fav channel buttons change almost instantaneous , Everything is much quicker, The screen is a higher resolution LCD, The Help button is much better, and the new backlit Blu-ray controls are awesome .. I Paid $400 which is a little crazy for a Remote but in the end it was well worth it ..
So if the Harmony ONE is a 10/10 .. Then this has to be 11/10 .. Bonus Pt for RF : )3 out of 4 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Great Pipe Dream - Abysmal Execution
by pjyannone on January 17, 2011
Pros: The advertizing played on our hopes and dreams of unifed theory of remote technology. It lured like the sirens of Crete.
Cons: Reality hit like a pallet of bricks, when wrangling with the amature software. What a rat's nest. The edit process required the awkward java form upload and then a download to update the remote, and then many repeats to fix the unexpected results.
Summary: The two levels of tech support commiserated with me. They were as tired of the topic as I was. They read their scripts per their job descriptions nonetheless. The upload ...
Summary: The two levels of tech support commiserated with me. They were as tired of the topic as I was. They read their scripts per their job descriptions nonetheless. The upload dialog software requested an ancient 1024x768 resolution screen. The 1920x1080 HD on my 8-month old Dell XPS laptop was not good enough. I tried the low-res but the results were worse. Even with HD I had to scroll the screen down to access the next or done buttons, for each input. The Java choice menus malfunctioned and vanished upon any clicking. I constructed a crippling workaround involving a mix of mouse and keyboard maneuvers but I averaged about one hour for each of my many updates to the remote, each producing unexpected results. The software is convoluted and ignores every ancient law of a reasonable hierarchy. The remote hardware is the same. The promise of a full version of every remote was broken immediately upon reading the requirements for adding just one custom function to one device.
My customer could afford the remote but the full time programmer would be a little pricey. The tweaker who may like the challenge of conquering this beast, is not likely in the income bracket to buy one. The first thing I found was that the RF claim on the box did not mean that its "universality" actually encompassed the RF controlled Bose system. So the reduction to one remote became two, within the first five minutes, and the outlook became clear that for a dozen reasons a dozen remotes would need to be kept on hand.
As the reader can likely tell, the shock and disappointment affects my writing. I would sooner not be having to write this review, but I would feel irresponsible if I did not do my part to discourage the perpetuation of such poor engineering, if it could even be called that. Harmony has made a dog (no offence intended to canine kind) and Logitech should dump this product before it bites them back.2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Logitech
- Part number: 915-000030
- Description: Logitech Harmony 900 controls your home-entertainment devices - even when they're out of sight (up to 100 feet away). When it's show time at your house, you won't see a jumble of remotes. You won't see a list of instructions. With RF technology, you won't even need to aim your remote or see your components or cables. It's easy to extend your reach and turn RF signals into IR commands your devices can understand. Just place the simple-to-install IR blaster and mini blasters near the equipment you want to control. No more complicated lists of what to turn on or which button to select. Everyone can select what they want to do - such as "Watch TV" - and your Harmony remote does the rest. You get easy, one-touch access to your entertainment activities - such as watching a DVD, watching TV, listening to music - as well as your favorite channels. Your rechargeable remote can go a week between charges. Just set it in the base station and it charges up. You won't be looking for batteries when you want to be watching TV.
General
- Device Type Universal remote control
Remote Control
- Connectivity Technology Infrared
- Input Device Touch screen
- Features Back-lit buttons
- Display LCD display
- Color Display Yes
Connections
- Connector Type 1 x USB
System Requirements
- Operating System MS Windows XP
Miscellaneous
- Cables Included 1 x USB cable - External
- Included Accessories AC power adapter,
Remote control charging stand Power
- Battery 1 x Remote control unit battery - Rechargeable - Lithium ion
- Included Qty 1
Manufacturer Warranty
- Service & Support 1 year warranty
- Service & Support Details Limited warranty - 1 year
Manufacturer info
- Manufacturer profile
- Browse Logitech products on Shopper.com
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- Manufacturer:Logitech
- Address:
6505 Kaiser Dr., Fremont, CA 94555
