Sony RMT-D173A Manual

The Sony RMT-D173A is a universal remote control designed for compatibility with a wide range of Sony and other brand TVs, DVD players, Blu-ray players, and audio systems. It features a user-friendly layout, learning capability for custom functions, macro programming for multi-device control, and backlit buttons for low-light operation. Below are key sections for overview, features, setup, programming, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Package Contents 3. Initial Setup & Battery Installation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Layout 6. Programming the Remote 7. Advanced Functions (Macro & Learning) 8. Code List & Compatibility 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Ergonomic design, LCD display (on select models), backlit keypad, device selector buttons, numeric keypad, navigation cluster, and special function keys.

FeatureDescription
Universal CompatibilityPre-programmed codes for Sony TVs, DVD/Blu-ray, audio systems, and select other brands
Learning FunctionCan learn commands from original remotes for custom control
Macro ProgrammingRecords sequences of up to 16 commands for one-touch operation
Backlit ButtonsIlluminated keypad for use in dark environments
Device SelectorDedicated buttons (TV, DVD, BD, AUDIO, CABLE/SAT) to control multiple devices
Code SearchAutomatic search function to find correct device codes
Ergonomic DesignComfortable grip and intuitive button layout
Battery IndicatorLow battery warning on display (if applicable)

Package Contents

Unpack and verify all items are present.

NOTE: If any item is missing or damaged, contact your place of purchase or Sony support.

Initial Setup & Battery Installation

Before first use, install batteries and prepare the remote for programming.

  1. Open the battery compartment on the back of the remote.
  2. Insert two AAA batteries, observing correct polarity (+/-).
  3. Close the battery compartment securely.
  4. Point the remote at the device you wish to control.
  5. Press the corresponding device button (e.g., TV) to activate that mode.

CAUTION! Do not mix old and new batteries or different battery types. Remove batteries if the remote will not be used for an extended period.

Specifications

Controls and Layout

Familiarize yourself with the remote's buttons and their functions.

Top Section: POWER, DEVICE SELECTORS (TV, DVD, BD, AUDIO, CABLE/SAT).

Center Section: Numeric Keypad (0-9, +100), Volume Up/Down, Mute, Channel Up/Down, Input Select, Guide, Menu, Display, Return, Options.

Navigation Cluster: Directional Arrow Keys (Up/Down/Left/Right), OK/Enter button.

Playback Controls: Play, Pause, Stop, Fast Forward (>>), Rewind (<<), Previous/Next, Eject (for applicable devices).

Special Buttons: BACKLIGHT (illuminates keypad), LEARN (for learning mode), MACRO (for programming sequences), CODE SEARCH.

Programming the Remote

Three methods to program the remote for your device: Auto Code Search, Direct Code Entry, and Learning.

  1. Auto Code Search:
    • Turn on the device you want to control.
    • Press and hold the corresponding DEVICE button (e.g., TV) and the POWER button simultaneously until the device button lights up (or blinks twice).
    • Point the remote at the device and repeatedly press the POWER button. Release when the device turns off.
    • Press the DEVICE button once to store the code.
  2. Direct Code Entry:
    • Find the correct 3- or 4-digit code for your device brand/model from the supplied code list.
    • Press and hold the DEVICE button until it lights up/blinks.
    • Enter the code using the numeric keypad. The device button will blink twice if the code is accepted.
    • Test the remote's functions (Power, Volume).

Tip: If the device does not respond, try the next code listed for your brand or use Auto Code Search.

Advanced Functions (Macro & Learning)

Learning a Command from Another Remote:

  1. Place the two remotes head-to-head, about 2-3 cm apart.
  2. On the RMT-D173A, press and hold the LEARN button and the target button you wish to program (e.g., a special colored key) until the indicator lights up.
  3. On the original remote, press and hold the button whose command you want to learn. The indicator on the Sony remote will blink slowly, then quickly when learned.
  4. Release both buttons. Test the learned command.

Programming a Macro (One-Touch Sequence):

  1. Press and hold the MACRO button until the indicator lights.
  2. Press the device buttons and command buttons in the exact sequence you want to record (e.g., 1. TV POWER, 2. CABLE/SAT POWER, 3. AUDIO POWER). The indicator will blink after each step.
  3. Press the MACRO button again to end recording. The indicator turns off.
  4. To execute the macro, press the MACRO button, then press the number (1 or 2) assigned to the sequence.

WARNING! Do not expose the remote's sensor to strong light during learning. Ensure batteries are fresh.

Code List & Compatibility

Partial list of major brand codes. Refer to the included booklet for the complete list.

Device TypeBrandSample Code(s)
TVSony001, 002, 015
TVSamsung005, 006, 024
TVLG003, 004, 028
DVD PlayerSony101, 102, 110
Blu-ray PlayerSony201, 202
AV ReceiverSony301, 302
Cable BoxComcast401, 405

If your device is not listed, use the Auto Code Search function.

Care & Maintenance

To ensure long life and proper operation:

CAUTION! Do not disassemble the remote. There are no user-serviceable parts inside.

Regulatory Information

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

This product contains a coin/button cell battery. If the battery is swallowed, it can cause severe internal burns in just 2 hours and can lead to death. Keep new and used batteries away from children. If the battery compartment does not close securely, stop using the product and keep it away from children.

© [Year] Sony Corporation. All rights reserved. Sony and the Sony logo are trademarks of Sony Corporation. For support, visit www.sony.com/electronics/support or contact Sony Customer Service at 1-800-222-7669.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Remote does not operate any deviceDead batteries, obstructionReplace both batteries. Ensure clear line-of-sight to device's IR sensor.
Remote operates some devices but not othersIncorrect programming, wrong device mode selectedRe-program the remote for the non-working device. Ensure correct DEVICE button (TV, DVD, etc.) is pressed first.
Buttons do not work after learningLearning process failed, weak source signalRepeat the learning process in a quiet environment, holding remotes steady and close together. Ensure original remote has strong batteries.
Macro does not execute completelyToo many steps, weak batteries, out of rangeReduce macro steps to 10 or fewer. Replace batteries. Point remote at devices throughout macro execution.
Backlight does not turn onBattery saving mode, faulty backlightPress and hold BACKLIGHT button for 3 seconds to enable/disable. If still not working, batteries may be too weak.

Reset: To reset the remote to factory defaults, remove batteries, press and hold the POWER button for 10 seconds, then reinsert batteries. All learned codes and macros will be erased.

Service: For issues not resolved above, contact Sony Customer Support at 1-800-222-7669 or visit www.sony.com/electronics/support.

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