Want to use my iPad as my universal controller

[joe1515]

I use to use a Harmony 1100 until my at the time 1.5 year old daughter accidentally broke it. I am looking to use my iPad as as the main controller.

What apps or programs should I be considering? Is it possible to just use a standalone or do I need to pair with a Universal or Crestron remote, for example.

Thanks,

Joe

[MyPal]

iRule looks like the cheapest feature rich IP to IR based automation system for iPad & Android.

My Harmony days are over too & I'm weighing up smarter options like iRule. I do not believe that iRule product supply is as restrictive as the "other two".

You may wish to purchase spare parts for the 1100 on eBay if you want to resurrect it for awhile longer.

[doggiehowser]

You can also use a BT -> IR sender device. So you don't need line of sight to the device (as long as the IR sender is).

Gear4 UnityRemote Review | TV Accessories | CNET UK

I got one of these but the supported list wasn't very good - let down by software. Not sure where I've put the unit now. Maybe I should go see if the software has been updated

[joe1515]

Originally Posted by doggiehowser

You can also use a BT -> IR sender device. So you don't need line of sight to the device (as long as the IR sender is).

Gear4 UnityRemote Review | TV Accessories | CNET UK

I got one of these but the supported list wasn't very good - let down by software. Not sure where I've put the unit now. Maybe I should go see if the software has been updated

Good Morning,

Yes I will be using IR sensors for the hidden components.

Joe

[Antonmb]

I've been using the Harmony Smart Control on one of my systems. It includes an IR blaster that sits in my equipment rack and an iOS app that works pretty well to control everything over wifi. There's also a basic small handheld remote as backup. I know there are not a lot of Harmony fans here, but for $130 it seems to work pretty well.
http://www.logitech.com/en-us/produc...ontrol?crid=60

[Newshoundaussie]

Originally Posted by Antonmb

I've been using the Harmony Smart Control on one of my systems. It includes an IR blaster that sits in my equipment rack and an iOS app that works pretty well to control everything over wifi. There's also a basic small handheld remote as backup. I know there are not a lot of Harmony fans here, but for $130 it seems to work pretty well.
Harmony Smart Control - Remote for iPad, iPhone & Android - Logitech

I have been using the harmony ultimate with my iPad works great.

[antipop]

Originally Posted by Antonmb

I've been using the Harmony Smart Control on one of my systems. It includes an IR blaster that sits in my equipment rack and an iOS app that works pretty well to control everything over wifi. There's also a basic small handheld remote as backup. I know there are not a lot of Harmony fans here, but for $130 it seems to work pretty well.
Harmony Smart Control - Remote for iPad, iPhone & Android - Logitech

The issue I have with Harmony is that it requires an internet connection at all times and the remote would stop working if the internet goes down.

I don't know if they solved it in the last version. I can't find anything relating to that.

[Antonmb]

Originally Posted by antipop

The issue I have with Harmony is that it requires an internet connection at all times and the remote would stop working if the internet goes down. I don't know if they solved it in the last version. I can't find anything relating to that.

Georges, the Harmony Hub and controller only require an Internet connection for setup, not for use. It does require wifi, since this is how the handheld remote and ipad communicate with the hub.

[antipop]

Originally Posted by Antonmb

Georges, the Harmony Hub and controller only require an Internet connection for setup, not for use. It does require wifi, since this is how the handheld remote and ipad communicate with the hub.

My understanding is that you need a live connection to the internet to use the app on your iPhone or iPad.

However, the remote works fine without a connection.

If I'm correct, I don't understand why they do it like that and I don't see the gain compared to my 900 if you still need a remote.

[Antonmb]

Originally Posted by antipop

My understanding is that you need a live connection to the internet to use the app on your iPhone or iPad. However, the remote works fine without a connection. If I'm correct, I don't understand why they do it like that and I don't see the gain compared to my 900 if you still need a remote.

I don't use the app that often, but I was pretty sure it works without an Internet connection as long as my home wifi is working. I'll unplug the Internet and verify it when I get home this evening.