Abstract: A signal distribution apparatus having a learning feature for recognizing a remote control device code associated with a particular signal source and coupling the associated signal source to an output in response to receipt of the device code. The remote control device code may be transmitted using a universal remote control device or a dedicated remote control device associated with the particular signal source. The present invention allows a user to couple a plurality of signal sources and a display device, such as a television set, to the present signal distribution apparatus and thereafter couple a selected one of the signal sources to the display device using the universal remote control device or the dedicated remote control device. The learning feature obviates the need for a dedicated remote control for the signal distribution device.

Abstract: A remote control apparatus and a method for identifying a reference code stored in a remote control apparatus. The remote control apparatus stores a reference code associated with a particular electronic device to be controlled and allows the user to determine the stored reference code by entering a code identification mode. In the code identification mode, the user selects a sequence of keys on the keypad and observes an indicator, such as an LED, after each key selection. The indicator is activated by a control unit when the number selected corresponds to the first digit in the reference code. The user then selects another sequence of keys on the keypad and observes the indicator after each key selection to identify the next digit in the reference code. The user repeats these steps to sequentially identify all of the digits in the reference code.