Tag: tv remote

Tips for Cable TV Cord Cutters

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When it comes to cable TV, how many of the channels are you actually watching? This has been a problem since cable TV first came out and people realized after the first month that they were always hitting the same numbers in their remote control, but paying for all the rest. Thankfully, the Internet has made it possible for you to get the shows you want, without the heavy price tag.

Document What You Watch

Start off by writing down the channels and shows you and your family regularly watch. You might even monitor the time you spend watching them. Divide your monthly cost by the hours watched to see what it costs you per hour to see those shows. Is it worth it?

Start Streaming

The Internet offers a variety of ways to stream the shows you want, without the high price tag. You can still use your remote control, though you may need to add devices. Start looking up your shows to see what apps you need to stream them, and, in many cases, you can stream them all through one app.

Get More Use Out of Systems

There are different boxes you can buy to stream television, but you may not need them. If you have a gaming system, you may be able to stream directly from it. You can also use your phone, tablet, computer, or Smart TV to stream movies and television shows. Be sure to look up what apps are compatible with what you already have so you don’t have to make an extra purchase.

You can still get the entertainment you want without the hassle of dealing with cable companies. In fact, you may be able to watch even more than you could with the cable programs that limit your access.

How Blu-Ray Technology Killed HD-DVD Technology

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Some of you might remember the battle between Blu-ray and HD-DVD technologies several years ago. Both were new technologies released in 2006 as a replacement to current DVD technologies. At that time, there was a division between major companies and what format was the best to use. On the HD-DVD side were companies like Microsoft, Toshiba, and Intel. On the Blu-ray side were companies like Sony, Disney, Apple, and Dell.

Initially, HD-DVD devices were the first to market, in April 2006, and were slow to be received by consumers. Blu-ray players were released in June 2006, but gained substantial momentum with the release of Sony’s PlayStation 3 video game console in November 2006. While Microsoft attempted to combat this by releasing a stand-alone HD-DVD player to use with its XBOX 360 gaming console, it was not well received.

Further hampering the battle between the two formats were the major Hollywood motion picture studios. Right from the start, both Sony and Disney opted for Blu-ray technologies, and it was not long before other studios, like Warner Brothers, made a decision to go with Blu-ray format over the HD-DVD format.

In the end, the battle between Microsoft and Sony and their gaming consoles is what ultimately killed HD-DVD technology. Consumers could get a gaming machine which also supported Blu-ray disc playback for less than it cost to purchase an XBOX 360 with the additional, external HD-DVD disc drive.

While HD-DVD technology and the companies that supported the format put up a good fight, lasting almost five years, in the end Blu-ray won out and has continued to grow in popularity. If you happen to own a HD-DVD player and need a new remote control, feel free to contact Replacement Remotes at 1-855-5-REMOTE (1-855-573-6683).

What Are Blu-rays and How Are They Better than DVDs?

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Blu-ray discs are a form of optical storage similar to DVDs. However, instead of using red lasers to burn data onto DVD discs, Blu-rays use a violet-blue laser, hence the name Blu-ray. Since Blu-ray discs use a different laser format to store data, it allows for the data to be placed closer together, thus increasing the storage capacity from 4.7 GB on a single layer DVD to 25 GB on a single layer Blu-ray disc.

Due to the larger storage capabilities, Blu-ray discs are able to store high definition (HD) video and picture content, which standard DVDs cannot. This feature has made Blu-rays more popular in recent years as more people have switched to the newer technology. As HD technologies continue to become more prevalent and used by more people, the expectation is DVDs will eventually stop being used, much like how DVDs displaced VHS tapes.

Blu-ray technologies are backwards compatible with both CDs and DVDs. As a result, Blu-ray players and optical drives are able to support these formats to playback music and movies, as well as access pictures and other data stored on CDs and DVDs. In addition, Blu-ray discs have a hard coating on them, which DVDs do not, that helps prevent against scratching and protects the contents of the disc.

Whether you currently have a Blu-ray player or are still using a DVD player, you can find universal remotes for your electronic devices at Replacement Remotes. For assistance in selecting the right remote controls for your devices, contact us at 1-855-5-REMOTE (1-855-573-6683) today.

New Amazon 4K Fire TV

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Amazon has made some major improvement to its Fire TV box, as well as the TV remote control that comes with it. With more storage space, less latency, better streaming, and Alexa, the new Amazon 4K Fire will turn your living room into a voice-controlled entertainment powerhouse.

Alexa

Amazon offered voice control with the original Fire TV, but Alexa wasn’t a part of the remote. Now, you can do interesting tasks like uploading music, but you can also expect much more in the future. Soon, Alexa will be able to reorder items from Amazon.com for you and perform things like simple searches for specific movies so that you literally don’t have to lift a finger to get the entertainment you want.

Better Technology

Naturally, a new system means better technology. That’s better technology to the tune of a 64-bit quad core processor that outputs 4K ultra HD video. You may have to upgrade your television and individual viewing items to 4K ultra HD, but that will be the standard in the future, and you’ll be one step ahead. You can also store more on your Fire TV with 8 gigabytes of internal storage and an option to add up to 120 more with an SD card.

You can expect faster playback, with a better viewing quality. Since the remote control has 20{8c8ae2a71b30a2d8c6f534038a85ab39be2a915945a2526b1de25039d71b9e11} less latency, you can also expect a more responsive controller. In short, everything is faster and clearer, and you can have more of it. Even Apple doesn’t offer some of the features found with the Fire, and you can upgrade your Fire Stick to get some of these new features as well.

How to Clean a DVD or Blu-ray Player

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While DVD and Blu-ray players are self-contained devices, dust can still get inside the unit and cause playback problems with your discs. One entry point for dust is if the player has a tray that opens and closes to insert and remove discs. Another entry point for dust is that of the vents on the sides or back of the player. To keep your player working correctly, it is important to dust and clean it on a regular basis. 

Before cleaning your DVD or Blu-ray player, make sure there is not a disc in the player. Next, unplug it from the electrical outlet, as this will prevent accidental electrical shocks. If the player is in an entertainment center or TV stand where it is more difficult to access, unplug the wires from the back of the player and pull it out.

Using a damp microfiber cloth, gently wipe the top, front, and sides of the player. Do not use a damp cloth on the back of the player as moisture could get into the unit. To remove dust from the back, use a dry cloth or a vacuum with a dusting attachment. After cleaning the outside of the player, reconnect the TV connections and plug it back in.

Lastly, open the tray or insert a lens cleaning disc into the player. Using your TV remote or universal remote, select play, and allow the disc to play through a cleaning cycle to remove dust from the playing mechanisms and laser lens. It is recommended to dust and clean your DVD or Blu-Ray player at least once a month.

For universal remote controls for your DVD and Blu-ray player, call Replacement Remotes today at 1-855-5-REMOTE (1-855-573-6683).

Lost Your Apple TV Remote? What You Can Do

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The small Apple TV remote is easy to accidently lose. It could fall down the side of the couch, be picked up by your toddler, or simply be misplaced. It is easy to waste hours looking for the little remote and attempting to find it. Rather than worrying about it when you do not have the time to look for it, there are a few different options you can utilize in order to be able to remotely control your Apple TV.

The easiest option is to use an Apple device, such as your iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch, and download the Apple TV remote control app from the app store. However, there is one small trick to being able to use the app: Your Apple TV must have the Home Sharing feature enabled. In addition, both the Apple device and Apple TV have to be on the same home network.

The next option is to pair a TV or DVD remote control with the Apple TV device, which supports multiple devices. Your Apple TV device will walk you through the setup process. Simply go to Settings – General – Remotes and select the “Learn Remote” option to get started programming the remote. If you need a multiple device remote to use with your Apple TV, feel free to contact Replacement Remotes today at 855-573-6683.

Do You Need a Big Screen TV?

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When shopping for a new TV and TV remote, the first thing you need to determine is the size you need. TVs come in a wide range of sizes, from less than 20 inches to more than 70 inches. So, do you need a small or a big screen TV? Here are some questions to help you decide:

  1. Do you prefer a small or a larger screen? If you don’t mind watching your favorite shows on a small TV, just as long as you’re watching them, then size doesn’t matter. But if you want a more theater-like experience, then you may need a bigger screen.
  2. Do you have the space to accommodate a larger screen television? The bigger the screen, the more room you need. If your designated TV space is on the small size, then you better stick to the smaller screens.
  3. Do you spend a lot of time watching TV? If you rarely watch TV, then you can probably get by with just about any size TV. But if you devote lots of hours to movies and TV shows, then you may want a bigger screen, so you can better enjoy the viewing.

Regardless of the screen size you choose, make sure you buy a quality TV from a name you can trust. Do your homework, and check on reviews to ensure that you make a worthwhile investment.

To learn more about the best TVs available today, as well as their corresponding remote controls, contact us at Replacement Remotes.

The LG 32LB5800 — Affordable Quality for the Small Screen

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With tax season finally upon us, you may find yourself in the market for a new television. Before you buy the first one with a cheap price tag, it is important to evaluate the features. Everything from the TV remote to the display quality should be considered when buying a TV—price should also be on that list, but it shouldn’t be your deciding factor. Today, we take a closer look at the LG 32LB5800, an affordable, simple television from a trusted manufacturer.

This 32-inch TV has several useful features. The ability to adjust the display gives the user the ability to have the exact picture you desire, instead of a generic pre-set display. There is also a gaming setting, which makes this TV a great option for serious gamers. Picture quality is great, in terms of lights and darks, providing you with a crisp, defined picture. The sound quality is also good, delivering a rich audio that goes well with regular TV viewing and with movies. With a price of around $400, this TV is a good option for a strict budget.

On the downside, the smart TV suite lacks the processing power to deliver a seamless stream of video and audio; so, if buffering is a pet peeve for you, you may want to find a different television. Other than that, LG has given us another strong TV with a useful remote and features, all at a great value price.

To learn more about this TV, as well as other current models, contact us today at Replacement Remotes.

The Coby TFDVD1595: Low Price with Great Quality

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The Coby TFDVD1595 is a value-priced, small TV that is a great choice for kitchens, bedrooms, and other rooms with minimal TV viewing. Like other smaller TVs, this one has a 15.6 inch screen — small, but with a decent display, so you aren’t missing anything. Priced at just below $200, the Coby TFDVD1595 is definitely a contender for best low-priced, small TV.

Some of the features of this television include a built-in DVD player, which is almost a standard feature of smaller televisions. This TV is also compatible with wide-screen movies, thanks to its 16:9 aspect ratio. It also features a sleep timer — a nice feature for people that enjoy falling asleep to the TV.

The audio on this television is pretty impressive for such its small size. While not as good as your regular TV and surround sound, it works quite well for a small room like a kitchen or even a dorm room. The TVs compact size make it ideal for fitting just about anywhere, whether on a counter or a bedside table.

One of the best features of this TV is the HDMI connection. It also features standard inputs, such as for RCA cables. So, you can enjoy your favorite shows on the small screen in full HDMI. Overall, this is a small TV that gives a lot of bang for the buck. The small price tag makes it a great choice for anyone on a budget.

To learn more about this quality television, as well as many other brands and models, contact us today at Replacement Remotes.

The Sony KD-65X9005B — Majestic, Mammoth Beauty

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As a movie buff, you want only one thing — to be able to watch your favorite movies from the comfort of home, but with the feel of a theater. That is where a big-screen TV and corresponding TV remote come into play. With the right big-screen TV, you can have the best of both your home world and the theater world. So, which TV is big enough? A 65-inch is usually a safe bet for home theater viewing, such as the Sony KD-65X9005B. For around $2,700, you can enjoy a fantastic display from a trusted manufacturer.

This TV has a unique wedge design that allows it to fit in with most any décor. It features 4 HDMI ports and 3 USB ports, as well as built-in Wi-Fi. The display and audio are, by far, the best features of this monster television. The picture is clear and crisp, with sharp blacks and colors. The audio is some of the best audio for this particular class of TV. Of course, hooked up to your surround sound, you will be set for at-home movies!

There are minimal flaws to Sony’s television, including that unique design. The wedge isn’t the problem, it is the sheer mammoth size of the TV that could make it hard for you to fit it inside your home. However, if you have the room, this is definitely a sound investment. One other drawback is its Active Shutter 3D. Unfortunately, this feature can demonstrate some flickering, which detracts from your viewing pleasure.

Overall, if you want the theater experience at home, and you aren’t really concerned with 3D, then this is the TV for you. Contact us today at Replacement Remotes to learn more about this television, as well as others.