Sony RMT-V501B Manual

The Sony RMT-V501B is a universal remote control designed for compatibility with various Sony and other brand audio/video equipment. It features pre-programmed codes for TVs, DVD/Blu-ray players, audio systems, and set-top boxes, along with learning capabilities to replace original remotes. Below are key sections for overview, setup, programming, operation, troubleshooting, and specifications.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: Ergonomic design, LCD display (on select models), device selection buttons, numeric keypad, navigation pad, volume/channel controls, power button, menu/exit buttons, and learning sensor.

FeatureDescription
Universal CompatibilityPre-programmed codes for Sony and major brands
Learning FunctionCan learn commands from original remotes
Device SelectionDedicated buttons for TV, DVD, AUDIO, CABLE/SAT
Numeric KeypadFor direct channel/input selection
Navigation PadDirectional arrows and OK/Enter button
Backlit ButtonsIlluminated keys for low-light use (on select models)
Battery IndicatorLCD shows battery status when low
Macro ProgrammingProgram sequences of commands to single button
Ergonomic DesignFits comfortably in hand with intuitive layout
Battery TypeUses 2 x AAA batteries (included)

Package Contents

Unpack and verify all items are present.

  1. Sony RMT-V501B Remote Control
  2. 2 x AAA batteries
  3. User Manual (this document)
  4. Quick Start Guide
  5. Code list booklet for major brands

WARNING! Keep batteries away from children. If battery leakage occurs, clean compartment with care.

Initial Setup

Install batteries and prepare for programming.

  1. Open battery compartment on rear; insert 2 AAA batteries observing polarity.
  2. Press any button to wake remote; ensure display lights up (if equipped).
  3. Select device type: Press TV, DVD, AUDIO, or CABLE/SAT button to activate mode.
  4. Program remote: Use auto-search or direct code entry (see Programming section).
  5. Test functions: Aim at device and press POWER to verify control.

CAUTION! Do not mix old and new batteries. Remove batteries if not used for extended periods.

Specifications

Controls and Layout

Top section: POWER, device selection (TV, DVD, AUDIO, CABLE/SAT). Center: Navigation pad (up/down/left/right, OK), MENU, BACK/EXIT. Lower: Numeric keypad (0-9), VOLUME +/- , CHANNEL +/- , MUTE, INPUT/SOURCE, GUIDE, INFO, SUBTITLE, AUDIO. Special: LEARN button (rear or under cover), RESET pinhole.

Display Indicators: Device icon lights when mode active. Battery icon flashes when low.

Learning sensor located at front top; point original remote here during learning process.

Programming the Remote

Two methods: Auto-search or direct code entry.

  1. Auto-search: Turn on device. Press and hold device button (e.g., TV) until indicator blinks twice. Press POWER repeatedly until device turns off. Press OK to save code.
  2. Direct code entry: Find code for your device in code list. Press and hold device button until indicator blinks twice. Enter 4-digit code using numeric pad. Indicator blinks twice if accepted. Test functions.
  3. Reset: Press RESET pinhole with paperclip to restore factory defaults.

Tip: Have device model number ready; some brands require multiple code attempts.

Learning Function

Teach remote commands from original remote.

  1. Prepare: Place remotes 1-2 inches apart, sensors facing.
  2. Enter learning mode: Press and hold LEARN button until indicator lights.
  3. Select button: Press button on RMT-V501B you wish to program (e.g., INPUT).
  4. Teach command: Press corresponding button on original remote. Indicator blinks if learned.
  5. Repeat: Program additional buttons as needed.
  6. Exit: Press LEARN button or wait 10 seconds.

WARNING! Learning works only with infrared remotes. Some proprietary codes may not learn.

Advanced Functions

Macro Programming: Record sequence of commands to single button.

  1. Press and hold MACRO (or LEARN+TV) until indicator lights.
  2. Press button to assign macro (e.g., DVD).
  3. Press series of commands in order (e.g., TV POWER, INPUT, DVD POWER).
  4. Press MACRO again to save.
  5. Test: Press assigned button to run sequence.

Volume Lock: Lock volume control to specific device. Hold device button + VOLUME for 3 seconds.

Care & Maintenance

Clean with dry, soft cloth. Do not use liquids or abrasive cleaners.

CAUTION! Avoid extreme temperatures and humidity. Replace batteries promptly when low to prevent leakage.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. Copyright © Sony Corporation. For support, visit www.sony.com/remotesupport or contact Sony Customer Service at 1-800-222-7669.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Remote not workingDead batteries, obstructionReplace batteries; ensure line-of-sight to device; check programming.
Some buttons not workingIncorrect code, learning errorReprogram with correct code; relearn command.
Learning failsDistance, low batteryPlace remotes closer; ensure original remote is IR; replace batteries.
Macro doesn't runSequence too long, device not onShorten macro steps; ensure devices are powered on.
Display dim or offBattery low, backlight disabledReplace batteries; check settings for backlight timeout.

Reset: Use pinhole reset to clear all programming and restore defaults.

Service: 1-800-222-7669; www.sony.com/remotesupport

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