Interface many TVs or STBs to one PC via IR or RF

For those needing to remote control many TVs or set-top boxes (STBs) from one PC, RedRat has launched a device that supports IR and RF links – the latter via optional Bluetooth or RF4CE add-on modules – according to the firm, RF is being increasingly used to control 4K and UHD TVs and associated set top boxes, as well as to support alternative control methods such as voice.

Called RedRat-X, it connects to a PC or laptop via USB or Ethernet so that system operators to generate remote control commands.

“As well as delivering greater functionality to our existing customer base [than RedRat3-II], RedRat-X allows us to engage in projects with customers whose aim is to start using RF technologies for automated STB control,” said RedRat owner Chris Dodge. “While the use of low powered radio remote control is becoming mainstream, this transition presents a significant hurdle for STB/TV engineering and test departments who are gradually waking up to the technical challenge of replacing IR based automation with RF technology.”

RF add-ons clip in underneath, Bluetooth or RF4CE

The device supports up to three plug-in IR emitters on flying leads. “A typical usage scenario would be small-scale STB testing where you could have two or three STBs stacked in rack or on a bench, and with these output ports you can independently control each one,” Dodge told Electronics Weekly.

It can be used stand-alone – usually for proof-of-concept before adopting a networked-based testing solution, said the firm; or integrated with third party applications via an SDK or API; or with RedRat’s own testing and automation software – ‘Test Manager’ is the firm’s proprietary test scripting tool of automated interactive control of large numbers of STBs.

Based in Saffron Walden, RedRat has over 300 customers in 40 countries worldwide. RedRat-X is made in the UK.