You can buy a replacement remote control that will replace all your remotes in the one unit. Consequently it looks as if it is on steroids - which helps stop it falling down the back of the sofa - and gives you some arm muscle exercise.
You used to be able to "train" those by pointing your old remotes at it.
Then someone decided that consumers wanted a simpler way - and all you needed was to type in a sequence of preset digits as a code to identify your DVD player etc.
There are several pages of codes for manufacturers and devices. You end up repeatedly going through the "reset" sequence as you try all the model codes that look possible. Then you go online to see the latest additions.
Finally you decide to check the model number on the entertainment device itself. This is usually hidden somewhere on a hard to access side. You try to read it without disconnecting the matrix of cables joining your home entertainment systems together, Some of the cables then decide to help by unplugging themselves at various random points.
Having finally found the magic code, or at least an imperfect one that operates the most essential functions - you then have to work out how all the cables plug together again. This may entail finding/buying a replacement cable for one which failed under the stress.
You then add the next device to the remote control by repeating the whole process. Simple isn't it?
Biting the hand that feeds IT
