Finding the Secret Back-Door “Anchor” Command
Most manufacturers do not acknowledge the existence of “Anchor” commands. Basically,
it is an IR command (or sequence of IR commands) that has some other normal purpose,
but the manufacturer has designed the device to go to a specific input (or execute a
specific function) when this command is given, regardless of what input the component is
currently in. These functions are typically reserved for use by factory service technicians or
engineers.
The most common television input “Anchor” commands are “Channel Up”; “Channel
Down”; “0,0,ENT”; “9,2,ENT”; “9,1,ENT”, but there are several others. When you test a
new television model, use your imagination when trying various code combinations, since
each manufacturer has their own ideas as to what is effective.
Testing the “Anchor” Command
Once you have found the anchor code(s), they must be tested. Make sure that no matter
what input the component is in, issuing the anchor code will select the specific anchored
input
every time
. If the anchor is not 100% reliable, you will have to resort to using the
“Input Manager” method.
Input Manager – For Components with only a Single “Input Toggle” Command
This is the least desirable type of preamp, television monitor, or projector to automate.
Using the “Input Manager” method, the system will be able to keep track of what input the
component is in at all times, even through repeated power failures and system power ups.
Whenever the end-user selects a new Master Key, the IntelliControl will calculate the
required number of “Input Toggle” commands necessary to change the device from
whatever input it is currently on, to the appropriate input required to enable the customer to
enjoy the newly selected source.
Testing the “Input Manager” Method
The “Input Manager” is NOT RELIABLE unless the end user cannot use the component’s
original remote control, or access the “Input Toggle” key on the front panel of the
component (if it has one). If you cannot block access to the front panel, or the customer
has identical branded televisions with remotes throughout the house, the likelihood of sync
problems created by the end user is extremely high. In such an installation, the “Input
Manager” method should not be used, and a Master Key should be labeled “TV Input” so
that the end-user can manually change the inputs.
Determine the “Defaults”
In order to determine the “Defaults”, the way the component functions under the following
circumstances must me noted in IntelliFile II. By simulating a power failure on at least two
of the inputs, does the TV remember the last input selected? Or does it go to a particular
input when the unit regains power? Now, do the same test, but turn the component “On”
and “Off” normally. Does the TV remember the last input selected? Or does it go to a
particular input every time?
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