Dogs and kids are not a remote control’s best friends

Press, 28 January 1986, Page 18

Dogs and kids are not a remote control’s best friends

Remote controls for video recorders sometimes seem to have developed minds of their own, but most “faults” can be traced to human error or just plain carelessness.

With a wired remote control care must be taken to ensure that the cable is not left draped around the room where it can be tripped over or subjected to sudden sharp pulls. Be particulary careful if you have pets who like to chew on things or small children who may get hold of a sharp instrument when your back is turned. Infra-red remote controls are more convenient

in many ways, but do you have a spare battery on hand? There is nothing more frustrating than having to leap up from your chair to change modes when you have become accustomed to armchair comfort' Take care not to leave it on the seat of the chair when you are called away, nor on the floor where it may be stepped on.

If you do find a problem with a remote control there is a simple check list follow. In the case of a wired remote control make sure that it is firmly in place; check that another function has not been activated by acci-

dent or design; inspect both ends of the cable where it joins the insert plug and the control unit itself; make sure that there are no breaks, knots or obvious signs of damage along the full length of the cable. A word of caution - do not get into the habit of winding the cable tightly around the remote control when the VCR is not in use. This will put strain on the joins and stretch the cable, resulting in breaks. The first thing to check with an infra-red remote control is the battery or batteries. Make sure that you replace them in the correct way and that they

are firmly in contact. Other points to check include function selection (particulary on/off) and sensor path. Strong, direct sunlight or studio lighting during filming can play havoc with the delicate sensors. Check that there is nothing blocking the path between the control unit and the sensor on the VCR and inspect the remote control for any obvious signs of damage. It is not a good idea to make a babbit of putting an infrared remote control into your pocket - not only do you run the risk of sitting on it, there is also the danger of fluff and dust seeping-into the unit.