Logitech Harmony Remote: Control Your Home Theater
Streamlining Your Home Theater Control with Logitech Harmony
Is your coffee table cluttered with numerous remote controls, one for each device in your home entertainment system? Are you frustrated with universal remotes that lack the necessary functionality? A Logitech Harmony remote offers a solution to these common issues.
The Benefits of a Harmony Remote
Logitech’s Harmony series is engineered to simplify the operation of your home theater – and, with select premium models, even your connected smarthome devices. While the initial configuration process isn’t without its challenges due to the complexity of Logitech’s software, it ultimately provides significantly enhanced control over your entertainment experience.
This guide will demonstrate how to configure your Harmony remote to manage all your devices seamlessly.
Important Setup Considerations
It is highly recommended to adhere to these instructions meticulously. Logitech’s hardware is generally reliable, but their software can be problematic and lead to confusion, particularly when utilizing remotes paired with the Harmony Hub.
Following these steps precisely, and in the correct sequence, will minimize the potential for encountering difficulties during the setup process.
- Pay close attention to the order of operations.
- Ensure accurate device identification within the software.
- Double-check all connections and settings.
By taking a careful approach, you can unlock the full potential of your Logitech Harmony remote and enjoy a more streamlined and enjoyable home theater experience.
Selecting the Optimal Logitech Remote Control
Logitech provides a selection of remote controls, each tailored to specific user requirements. Their present product range encompasses:
- Harmony 350 ($40, $37 on Amazon): Representing Logitech’s entry-level option, this remote facilitates control of up to eight devices utilizing four programmable buttons (with distinct functions for short and long presses). It functions similarly to conventional universal remotes, but offers the benefit of customizable button assignments. A single macro is included for initiating “Watch TV” mode, activating multiple devices simultaneously; however, it lacks more sophisticated features.
- Harmony 650 ($80, $52 on Amazon): This model is a personally favored choice, striking an excellent balance between features and cost. It supports control of up to eight devices, allows the creation of customized “macros” for simultaneous device activation, and incorporates a screen for functions not directly accessible via remote buttons. This enables replication of virtually any device’s remote interface with fewer button presses, all at a price point of approximately $50. Eliminate the need to search through a cluttered drawer of remotes.
- Harmony Companion ($150, $125 on Amazon): The Harmony Companion omits the on-screen buttons found on the 650, but introduces smarthome integration through the inclusion of the Harmony Hub. This represents Logitech’s most affordable and fundamental smarthome remote solution. Beyond home theater control, it enables dimming of smart lighting, activation of smart outlets, and operation of motorized blinds with a single button press. The remote features four dedicated smarthome buttons; controlling additional devices necessitates the use of the Harmony app on a smartphone or tablet connected to the Hub.
- Harmony Elite ($350, $312 on Amazon): The Harmony Elite is Logitech’s premium remote control, offering comprehensive custom control over both home theater and smarthome devices. It can manage up to 15 devices via programmable buttons, complemented by a screen for custom controls beyond the button layout. Unlike the Companion, this allows control of more smarthome devices than the four “Home” buttons provide. The included Harmony Hub also enables device control through the Logitech app, though the remote’s advanced capabilities may render the app unnecessary.
- Harmony Ultimate One ($250): The Harmony Ultimate One is priced lower than the Elite, but is positioned uniquely between the Companion and Elite models. It is essentially an older iteration of the Elite, which Logitech continues to manufacture. Its functionality closely mirrors that of its successor, but the touchscreen is somewhat slower, and the play, pause, and rewind buttons are positioned unusually above the touchscreen. It is available on Amazon bundled with the Harmony Hub for smarthome control and app integration, or independently for $190 as a standard infrared remote—though its value proposition is questionable given the Harmony 650’s comparable functionality at a significantly lower price.
The selection of a remote depends on individual needs; however, smarthome control requires one of the latter three options. Logitech’s smarthome compatibility list can be found here. The Hub included with these remotes supports a wide range of devices, and the Harmony Home Hub Extender further expands compatibility to numerous ZigBee and Z-Wave devices for $100.
For those seeking solely home theater control, the Harmony 650 is highly recommended, offering substantial value for an additional $15 over the Harmony 350. If smarthome devices are present, the Companion is a viable option, but the Ultimate One and Elite provide greater versatility due to their touchscreens. Cost savings may be achieved by opting for the Ultimate One, provided the unconventional button placement and less responsive touchscreen are acceptable.
This guide will focus on the initial setup of home theater devices; smarthome device configuration will be covered in a forthcoming guide.
Understanding Activities: The Core of Logitech Harmony Remotes
Many less expensive universal remotes allow control of multiple devices via dedicated device buttons. However, these typically manage only one device simultaneously.
Logitech Harmony remotes offer a distinct approach. While individual device control is possible, their primary function revolves around "Activities".
How Activities Simplify Home Entertainment
Instead of sequentially powering on devices and selecting inputs, Activities automate the process. For example, selecting "Watch a Movie" will power on the TV, switch to the appropriate input, and activate the DVD player.
Customization is key. Users can assign specific buttons within an Activity to control either the TV or the DVD player, tailoring the experience to their preferences.
Transitioning to Activity-Based Control
Switching to a different Activity, such as "Listen to Music", automatically reconfigures the remote’s button assignments and on-screen functions for music playback.
Initial setup may require a shift in mindset for those accustomed to traditional universal remotes. The system is designed around what you are doing, rather than which device you are using.
Harmony 350: A Notable Exception
The Harmony 350 model operates differently. It supports only a single Activity.
Consequently, using the Harmony 350 closely resembles the functionality of conventional universal remotes, requiring users to select a device button (e.g., "DVD") before controlling that specific device.
How to Set Up Your Initial Devices and Activities
You're likely eager to begin utilizing your new remote. This guide details the process of setting up your Logitech remote using the MyHarmony software.
Step One: Download and Install the MyHarmony Software
First, navigate to Logitech’s Download page and obtain the MyHarmony software compatible with your operating system—Windows Vista/7, Windows 8/10, or Mac OS X. Execute the downloaded EXE file to initiate the installation, and then launch the MyHarmony program upon completion.
You will be asked to log in with your existing Logitech account. If you do not currently possess one, create an account at this time. A Logitech account is beneficial as it provides backup for all your configurations and allows for customization migration to a new remote if needed.
If your remote includes a Harmony Hub, such as the Harmony Elite or Ultimate One, setup can also be performed using the Harmony app for iOS or Android. However, the MyHarmony desktop software—despite its imperfections—is generally considered easier and more robust for initial home theater configuration, and will be used for this tutorial.
Step Two: Add a Remote
Upon opening the software, you’ll see a list of remotes associated with your account, alongside an "Add a remote" button. If this is your first login, only the "Add" button will be visible. Click it to begin adding a new remote.
Connect your remote to your computer using the provided USB cable when prompted.
MyHarmony will guide you through the initial setup process. You’ll have the option to copy settings from a previous Harmony remote, which can be effective depending on the models involved. For this guide, we will proceed with a "New Setup".
Step Two Point Five: Add Your Harmony Hub
If you are using a remote with a Harmony Hub, like the Harmony Elite or Ultimate One, you must configure the hub during this stage. (If you do not have a Harmony Hub, skip ahead to Step Three.)
Choose a suitable location for your Harmony Hub. While it utilizes infrared communication, direct line of sight to your devices isn’t always necessary. Infrared signals can reflect off walls and objects, allowing placement under the TV or within an entertainment cabinet. If placing it in an enclosed space, connect and position one or both of the included infrared blasters outside the enclosure.
In many cases, the blasters are not required; positioning the hub on top of your receiver may be sufficient to control your entire home theater system.
Within the MyHarmony software, accept the license agreement, then name your Harmony Hub and click Next.
MyHarmony will display a list of available Wi-Fi networks. Select your desired network for communication with the Harmony Hub and click Next.
The software will search for and connect to your hub. If unsuccessful, it will revert to the "Name Your Hub" screen. It may be necessary to use a laptop connected to Wi-Fi and positioned near the Harmony Hub for successful connection.
You will then be asked whether to continue setup from your computer or the Harmony mobile app. We recommend continuing with the desktop application. Despite its drawbacks, it remains easier to use than the mobile app due to the mouse and keyboard interface. The mobile app is needed for controlling PCs or smart home devices on higher-end remotes, but those instructions are beyond the scope of this guide.
MyHarmony will again present the option to copy settings from a previous remote. For this guide, we will proceed with a "New Setup".
If your remote supports smart home devices, they will be listed. You can add them now or manually later. We will focus on adding home theater devices first, and address smart home devices at the end of this guide.
Click the "Add Device" button on the "Add Your Devices" screen to proceed.
Step Three: Add Your Devices
MyHarmony will prompt you to enter information for your first device. As an example, we will add a Samsung UN55H6203AF television. Locate the model number on your TV or its manual, enter it, and click "Add".
If the model number is recognized, it will appear in your device list. Repeat this process for all your devices—receiver, DVD or Blu-ray player, cable box, and so on—by clicking "Add Device".
Click "Done" when you have added all your devices.
Step Four: Create Your Activities
Next, MyHarmony will guide you through setting up your Activities. You will define which devices are involved in each activity and their corresponding input settings.
Let's begin by creating a "Watch TV" activity. This requires turning on your TV and AV receiver. Since we use an antenna, no additional devices are needed. Click Next.
MyHarmony will ask which device controls the volume. If you have an audio or AV receiver, select it here. Otherwise, select your TV.
Now, specify the input settings for your TV and receiver. In our case, both will be set to "TV" as we are using an antenna.
These settings will vary depending on your setup and each activity. For a "Watch a Movie" activity, you might set your TV input to "HDMI1" (where your receiver is connected) and your receiver input to "DVD" (where your Blu-ray player is connected).
Confirm your settings, making any necessary adjustments. Then, click Done.
You will see a list of your activities. Click "Add Activity" to create more, such as "Watch a Movie", "Listen to Music", or "Watch Chromecast".
Click Done when finished. You may be prompted with additional questions and asked to sync your remote via USB. This process takes a few minutes, after which you can proceed to the next step.
Customizing Your Harmony Remote's Buttons
After adding your devices and activities, the true potential of your Harmony remote lies in its customization options. With a few simple steps, you can reassign any button to control any function you desire.
The MyHarmony software automatically assigns some functions—such as the TV's Menu to the Harmony remote’s Menu button—but you can easily remap buttons within the software if the default assignments aren’t ideal.
To begin, launch the MyHarmony app and select your remote from the displayed list.
Customizing Physical Buttons
Harmony remotes feature several button sets, including standard physical buttons (play, pause, volume), Activity buttons ("Watch TV", "Watch a Movie"), on-screen buttons (for remotes with a screen), and smart home buttons (if supported).
You can customize each of these button sets. Let's start by customizing the physical Remote Buttons. Select an activity from the "Select an Activity or Device" dropdown under "Remote Buttons," such as "Watch TV," and then click "Go."
You’ll now see a visual representation of your remote. Hovering over a button reveals its currently assigned action. For instance, in the "Watch TV" activity, hovering over the Menu button shows it activates the TV’s Menu function.
You can also reassign buttons as needed. For example, to change the "Guide" button to display a channel list instead of the TV guide, select "Samsung TV" from the "Device" dropdown on the left.
Then, drag the "ChannelList" function onto the "Guide" button to assign it.
On select Logitech remotes, you can assign different functions to both short and long presses of each button. To view these assignments, click on the button to see its current function in the upper right-hand corner.
To reassign, hover over a function in the right sidebar and choose "Short Press," "Long Press," or "Both" to assign it to the button.
Repeat this process for any desired button functions. Bold functions are unassigned, while greyed-out functions are already assigned to a button. You can also customize buttons for other activities or specific devices.
Customizing On-Screen Buttons
If your remote has a screen, you can add functions that don't have dedicated physical buttons. For example, a receiver’s "Night Mode" lowers the audio’s dynamic range, allowing comfortable listening without disturbing others. This can be easily added to the screen.
From the main Buttons page, select an activity (or device) from the dropdown menu under "Screen Options." In this case, we’ll edit the "Watch a Movie" activity.
MyHarmony may have already added some options to your screen. Remove them by clicking the "X" next to each one. (The screen appearance may vary depending on your remote model, but the process remains consistent.)
To add a new function, select the device containing the desired function from the "Select a Device" dropdown on the right. Since we want to add the receiver’s "Night Mode" to the "Watch a Movie" activity, we’ll choose the receiver.
Then, scroll down to the "Night" option (representing the receiver’s Night Mode) and drag it onto the screen.
The function will now appear on the screen with the others. You can rename it by clicking it and entering a new label in the "Label" box.
Repeat this process for any other functions you want to add to the screen, and for your other activities or devices.
Syncing Your Remote
After making your button customizations, you must synchronize the changes to your remote. Connect the included USB cable, and the "Sync" button on the MyHarmony page should change from yellow to blue.
Click the "Sync" button to transfer the changes to your remote. This will take a few moments, after which your customizations will be active.
If your remote connects to a Harmony Hub, you don't need to sync via USB, although you can if you prefer. Since customizations are stored online, you can tap the Settings button on your remote’s screen and navigate to Settings > Sync Remote. The remote and hub will synchronize with Harmony’s servers, applying your latest changes.
Logitech’s higher-end remotes also allow you to change the icons associated with different activities through the remote’s on-screen settings or the Harmony app.
While this may seem complex, these instructions cover the fundamental customization options. You can also create intricate sequences of functions for a single button or troubleshoot commands that aren't working correctly. Ultimately, you’ll have a streamlined remote that controls your entire home theater with ease and fewer button presses.