The user interface is refreshingly simple and logical. Once configured, the remote offers choices called activities, such as watching, listening, and browsing. It’s macro-based, meaning one button press activates several commands and functions across several components. The difference here is that I didn’t have to go through the tedious process of creating macros. The remote created them automatically because I told it which components I had in which rooms during the interview process. I especially like the “all off” command which turned all of my components off with one touch.


The activities are also room-based, so when I choose the theater, I get one set of command choices, and when I choose another room such as the den, the remote is ready to control the equipment there. And the macros are extensive, turning all the relevant equipment on, choosing the right inputs on the TV and the A/V equipment, etc.

Unlike Pronto remotes, the RC9800i doesn’t let you edit the touchscreen buttons or rearrange them. So occasionally you will see buttons appear that don’t have relevance to your particular components, such as a red record button in the DVD controls––obviously there for DVD recorder control, but I don’t have one of those.

The RC9800i is an instant-on affair, with a simple touch of the sharp and colorful screen or one of the hard buttons, which are backlit whenever pressed. There is an adjustment for the button backlighting time, as well as another adjustment for the power save mode timing when the screen goes blank. The specs call out a battery life of three hours of continuous use, which is quite generous, and the remote is equipped with a lithium-polymer battery pack, which promises longer operating life compared to nicad rechargeable types. It’s not user-replaceable however, requiring a visit to a service center if ever necessary.