Abstract: A remote control is provided for controlling various electronic apparatus such as televisions, videocassette recorders, stereo systems, cable boxes, and the like. The remote control includes a loop-back, self-test capability, which indicates the operability of the remote control without additional testing apparatus. Status of the self-test, and thus the remote control, is indicated to the user by an audio/visual status indicator located on the remote control. The remote control optionally includes two infrared diodes to transmit a self-test signal with a reduction in directionality limitations.

Abstract: A programmable, universal remote control for controlling many different of remote controlled devices, such as televisions, videocassette recorders, and cable boxes is provided. The remote control can be programmed with a code corresponding to a particular manufacturer and model of the remote controlled device to be controlled. The remote control can also display this code on the remote controlled device using preexisting circuitry in the remote control. If the user does not know the particular manufacturer/model code corresponding to the remote controlled device to be controlled, he may sequence through the available manufacturer/model codes in the remote control until an appropriate code is found. Methods are also provided for programming, displaying, and searching for the appropriate manufacturer/model code in the remote control.