A universal remote is a handy tool that lets you control multiple devices, like your TV, DVD player, or cable box, with just one remote. The Vivitar universal remote is popular because it can handle up to eight devices at once. But what if you lose the manual or don’t have the code for your device? You can still program your Vivitar universal remote without a code using two simple methods. This guide, written in clear English for easy understanding, walks you through the process step by step. It’s designed for anyone, even if you’re not tech-savvy, and aims for a 6th-8th grade reading level.
Why Program Without a Code?
You might not have the manual that lists device codes. Sometimes, provided codes don’t work, or your device isn’t listed. Programming without a code lets the remote automatically find the right code. This saves time and simplifies the process. The two methods below—auto search and code search—are reliable and work for most Vivitar universal remote models, including Viv-urc-713 and Viv-urc-720, as confirmed by sources like Smart TV Remote Guru.
Method 1: Auto Search
The auto search method is the most common way to program a Vivitar universal remote without a code. It scans the remote’s internal code database to find the correct code for your device.
Steps
- Turn on your device: Ensure your device, like a TV or DVD player, is powered on.
- Activate the remote: Press and hold the device button (e.g., TV, DVD, CBL, or AUX) for 3 seconds. The LED light on the remote should stay on.
- Search for the code: Point the remote at your device and press the CH+ (Channel Up) or CH- (Channel Down) button repeatedly. Keep pressing until the device turns off. This may take a few minutes.
- Verify the programming: When the device turns off, press the Power button to turn it back on. If it turns on, the remote is programmed correctly. Test other functions, like changing channels, to confirm.
- Save the code: Press the device button (e.g., TV) again to save the code. The LED should blink twice to confirm.
Tips for Success
- Use fresh batteries to ensure the remote has enough power.
- Keep a clear line of sight between the remote and the device’s sensor.
- Be patient, as the auto search may take time to find the right code.
- If the device doesn’t respond, repeat the steps or try the next method.
Method 2: Code Search (991 Method)
The code search method is an alternative approach that uses the sequence 9-9-1 to initiate a code scan. It’s useful if the auto search method doesn’t work.
Steps
- Hold the Setup button: Locate the Setup button on your remote and hold it until the LED light turns on.
- Enter the code: Use the numeric keypad to enter 9-9-1. The LED should flash to indicate programming mode.
- Hold Power: Press and hold the Power button. The LED will continue flashing.
- Search with Channel Up: While holding the Power button, press the Channel Up button repeatedly until the device turns off.
- Turn it back on: Release the buttons and press the Power button to turn the device back on. If it works, the programming is successful.
Notes
- This method may not work for all Vivitar remote models, so try it if auto search fails.
- The process can be time-consuming, as it cycles through codes.
- Test all remote functions, like volume or menu, to ensure full compatibility.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your Vivitar universal remote doesn’t work after trying both methods, here are some troubleshooting steps to resolve common issues:
- Check batteries: Ensure batteries are fresh and correctly inserted. Weak batteries can cause the remote to fail, as noted by Universal Remote Codes.
- Device compatibility: Verify that your device is compatible with the Vivitar universal remote. Check the remote’s packaging or visit Vivitar Support for a compatibility list.
- Repeat the process: The remote might miss the correct code. Repeat both methods, following each step carefully.
- Find manual codes: If neither method works, you may need device-specific codes. Websites like urclist offer code lists for brands like Samsung, LG, or Sony.
- Contact support: For further assistance, contact Vivitar’s customer support via Vivitar Support or seek expert advice on platforms like JustAnswer.
Table: Common Troubleshooting Issues and Solutions
| Issue | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Device doesn’t turn off during search | Weak batteries | Replace with fresh batteries |
| Remote doesn’t respond | Incorrect button sequence | Repeat steps carefully |
| Device turns off but doesn’t turn on | Wrong code selected | Try the other method or repeat |
| Some functions don’t work | Partial compatibility | Check device compatibility or use manual codes |
Additional Resources
For more help or to explore programming with codes, consider these resources:
- Vivitar Support: Check Vivitar Support for manuals, FAQs, or customer support contact details.
- Code Lists: Find device-specific codes at Universal Remote Codes or Daily Post Articles.
- Expert Assistance: Get personalized help from Q&A platforms like JustAnswer.
Read Also: Vivitar universal remote codes
Conclusion
Programming your Vivitar universal remote without a code is simple and doesn’t require a manual. The auto search method is the easiest, scanning the remote’s database to find the right code. If that doesn’t work, the code search method with the 9-9-1 sequence is a reliable alternative. Both methods are user-friendly and work for most Vivitar universal remotes, as confirmed by sources like Daily Post Articles. With these steps, you can control all your devices with one remote, making your home entertainment setup more convenient. If you face issues, use the troubleshooting tips or check the provided resources for further help. Enjoy the ease of a fully programmed Vivitar universal remote!
FAQ’s
Why is my universal remote not programming?
However, battery problems, pairing problems, or infrared sensor problems are the most typical causes of a TV remote not working. Pointing the remote control at your TV, press the power button. On the TV, check to see if the LED indication blinks. If not, the batteries on your remote do not have enough charge.
How do I reset my universal LED remote?
Press a button to completely discharge the remote after removing a battery. Replacing the battery should cause the LED to blink twice. Within 6 seconds, concurrently press the numbers 2 and 8; the LED should then flicker twice.
How do I restore my TV to factory settings?
Switch on the TV.
On the remote control, press the HOME button.
Choose Settings.
Your TV’s menu settings will determine the subsequent steps: … Choose Reset or Factory data reset.
Choose Yes, then click Delete Everything.