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When it comes down to HTPC remotes, they all
basically do one thing...control your PC via convenient buttons. Those
that offer more features are typically overpriced remotes with LCD screens
that in all honesty, most won't even take full advantage of. Your
standard MCE remote also doesn't offer anything special and will function
just like any typical remote. Gyration, a company respected for their
presentation and other unique input devices, has taken your average remote
to another level. Their Universal Media Center Remote sports their
unique motion-sensing technology to provide in-air cursor control, providing
true wireless mouse control via a more reliable 2.4GHz frequency.
Stick with me here because I will also offer a
tip to grab one of these for less than half its current price tag!
Packaging & Contents
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**click to enlarge** |
**click to enlarge** |
The remote does ship in appealing packaging.
After opening its velcro-flip cover, you'll find additional information
regarding its features. The remote ships with the USB receiver, an
extension USB cable, a couple of AA batteries and a pretty thorough
instruction manual. While the receiver is quite small, the extension cable
is actually quite nice because depending on your HTPC setup, the receiver
may be too long and cause some clearance issues for those with smaller TV
stands/AV racks.
The Remote
**click to enlarge**
**click to enlarge**
In terms of a design standpoint, the remote is
fairly appealing but certainly far from the most attractive. It sports
a two-tone color combination that consists of a black outer housing and
silver/gold-ish tone on the front input panel.
**click to enlarge**
The top of the remote is pretty thin but gets
substantially thicker on the way down. Yes, it can be a bit thicker
than your average remote but when you take its features into account, this
will quickly fade and not be an issue at all.
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**click to enlarge** |
**click to enlarge** |
This remote fully supports Windows Vista and
features all the buttons you would typically find in such a product.
For those wondering, you could use it with Windows XP MCE as well. Other than that green button, you
have a number of other buttons to launch features or adjust controls.
This includes pictures, videos, music, TV and more. Right near the
center are the controls that make this remote stand out from all others.
Other than right/left mouse button functionality, you have a middle button
to activate its unique "in-air" cursor control based on its motion-sensing
technology. This button is multi-featured and its functionality
depends on what you personally find most convenient. Unfortunately, buttons are not backlit but the remote can
indeed control a number of other components including your TV, A/V receiver,
cable box, etc. These happen to be the only buttons with some
backlight functionality for remote status.
Specifications
| Brand |
Gyration |
| Model |
GYR3101US |
|
Features |
| |
For use with PC, Media Center, and Audio/Video Functions.In-air
cursor control using Patented Gyroscopic Motion-Sensing technology,
2.4GHz RF technology for up to 100 ft. - 30m range with no
line-of-sight limitations when controlling your remote PC.
Certified for Windows Vista Premium/Ultimate Editions with "Green
Button" support.
IR Universal Learning Remote Control which can control up to 3 other
A/V components; Includes extensive remote code library to assist in
programming the remote to operate your existing A/V components.
IR Learning Capability allows customized control of each A/V
component, Easily enjoy your favorite streaming entertainment from
the web (YouTube, Slingbox, IPTV).
Works with all Gyration 2.4GHz products (some limitations apply) -
Includes USB Extension Cable for maximum Receiver placement
flexibility. |
| Spec |
| Type |
Universal |
| Wireless
Technology |
RF (2.4GHz) |
| Range |
100 ft. |
| Batteries |
2 AA Batteries |
| Supply
Voltage |
+2.7V to
+3.3VDC |
|
Interface |
SPI
synchronous serial |
|
Operating Temp Range |
-10°C to
+70°C |
| Detect
Movement Current |
7uA |
| Steady
State Current |
4.5mA |
| Max
Sampling Rate |
8msec |
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