Abstract: A remote control device when actuated by a user transmits a visually perceptible coded signal to a sensor associated with a doorbell which receives the signal and causes activation of the doorbell as desired. The sensor has multiple settings which control operation of the doorbell such that any, specified, or no remote devices may operate the doorbell depending on the setting that is selected on the sensor.

Abstract: A remote control device when actuated by a user transmits a visually perceptible signal to a sensor associated with a doorbell, or any device compatible with the remote/sensor apparatus (e.g. garage door, spot-light, etc.). Whence the signal is visually verified to be in alignment with the sensor the remote confirms and then executes the device via an activation signal and other information from the remote. Because the nature of the remote/sensor apparatus is intended to be universal (one remote control can operate any compatible device) the sensor and/or the device intended to be activated may have multiple settings consisting of, but not limited to public (any compatible remote may operate the device), private (only a specified remote may operate the device), and off (no remote may operate the device).