I’ve tested other remote controls that claim to have extensive code sets in memory, but often find them wanting. I have a Panasonic combo TV/VCR in the den, one of its most popular and longest-running models, which for some reason has a code set that isn’t related to other Panasonic TV and VCR models. The RC9800i is the first universal remote that I’ve come across that had the proper codes to control the Panasonic TV—it even had the codes for my Runco (NEC-sourced) CRT front projector.

WiFi connectivity has the remote control talking to my wireless router and broadband internet connection, enabling automatic retrieval of Philips’ electronic program guide for local over-the-air TV channels, your local cable service, as well as for DirecTV and Dish Network satellite sources. They do require you to sign up for the service via the Internet, but the first year of service is free. At press time they hadn’t decided what, if any, charge would apply after the first year. I found it useful for local channel listings, but I wouldn’t bother with it for satellite or cable, as these companies already provide detailed on-screen program guides with their services anyway.

The media manager PC software Philips provides comes from its Streamium family of universal plug-and-play (UPnP) compatible components. It allows the RC9800i to communicate with the computer, and wirelessly retrieve music files as well as digital photos. When the remote is parked in the charger cradle, MP3 sound files from the computer can be delivered to the A/V system via a stereo mini jack on the back panel. That could be a boon in instances where the family computer is in another room in the home far away from the A/V system.

Presently, only MP3 music files and M3U playlists are supported––songs downloaded from iTunes are different file types and are not supported by the RC9800i. The remote comes equipped with a USB cord that allows the user to download future firmware upgrades, which you should do prior to initial setup.