Abstract: A general short-range remote control alerting system consists of at least one transmitter or encoder device in communication with at least one receiver or decoder device. Each transmitter or encoder device has a factory pre-set unique identification (ID) code. The receiver or decoder device utilizes a memory device, the memory of which will not change due to power supply interruption and can be read or written or re-written to store ID codes from the various transmitters or encoder devices. The transmitter or encoder device transmits ID code to the receiver or decoder device, and upon matching, the receiver or decoder device causes pre-defined functions to be performed, such as a musical tune to be played or a light to be activated or de-activated. A communication protocol realizing the above system is also disclosed. The present invention can be applied to doorbells, security lights, home controls and security alarm systems.