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Finding Discrete Commands for Reliable Macros
Discrete Commands versus Toggle Commands
When a remote control’s only button to turn on and off a TV set is labeled Power, it is usually a “toggle” com-
mand. Test it by pressing the button twice. If the power button turns on the TV, then turns it off, it is a toggle
command. You cannot predict whether the component will power on or not. That is a big problem when you
are programming macros! Basically, your client will feel that the macro only works half the time, and will
probably blame you for the problem.
Discrete means that the function of the command is “separate and distinct” from any other function. On a
remote control with “discrete” power commands, there are two power buttons. One that only turns the com-
ponent on, and another that only turns the component off.
The most commonly sought “discrete” commands are for power on, power off and for TV and Surround Sound
Receiver INPUT selection. These discrete commands will make your macros work every time for your cus-
tomer.
“Secret” Discrete Codes exist for some components. Why are they secret? Because the manufacturer
wants the remote control that accompanies the component to have the simplest appearance (fewest buttons).
Since toggles reduce the number of buttons, they make the remote control appear easier to operate. Many
manufacturers understand the needs of custom installers and build their components to also respond to dis-
crete codes. They distribute the discrete codes via service remotes, etc. For the first time, those codes are col-
lected and integrated into our database.
Not all components respond to the discrete codes in the Database. A component has to be BUILT to
respond to discrete codes. The fact that other models from the same manufacturer do respond to discrete codes
is the reason the codes are added to a code set. However, some models will not respond, because the manu-
facturer did not build it to respond through budgetary considerations, time constraints or a simple oversight.
Use the IR Database Navigator to Find Discrete Commands
1 Open the IR Database Navigator by clicking on the CUSTOM button in the IR Database window, or
by clicking on IR Database Navigator in the TOOLS menu.
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Finding Discrete Commands for Reliable Macros
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