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Harmony® (Logitech) remotes have become a staple with A/V enthusiasts simply because they are so easy to configure and they offer power features typically only found on more expensive controllers. Then came the PS3 from Sony with no ability to accept IR commands from these user friendly and powerful remotes. Sure, Sony offers a nice Bluetooth remote minus backlighting. However, you get what they give you rather than having all your favorite commands stored in one controller. Logitech paid attention here and has introduced a clever solution to remedy this problem. The Logitech PS3 Adapter is designed to interface your favorite Harmony® remote with support for all 51 PS3 commands. Users can navigate through the XrossMediaBar (XMB) interface and even power their PS3 on and off without having to use the game controller.
The adapter uses a Bluetooth link to your PS3, eliminating unnecessary wires and freeing up the valuable USB ports on the front of the game console. In addition, the link is always active so your remote will work whether the console is on or off, allowing you to turn on the PS3. Sounds simple, but some of the earlier products had limitations with this. The compact, low-profile design is unobtrusive and blends in well with any home entertainment system. The adapter measures only 4" x 2.5" x 0.75" and requires a simple connection to the AC adapter. The PS3 registers the device just like an BD remote.
Installation
Configuring the adapter is very easy and requires the user to go into the PS3 Settings menu and select Register BD Remote Control under the Accessory Settings. Pressing the Connect button on the bottom of the adapter puts the unit into a pairing mode where the PS3 can discover the device. The indicator light on the top of the adapter will begin to blink, letting you know that it is waiting to be paired. Once complete, the PS3 will display the Register Complete message (as shown). For us it was fast, simple, and with no issues to get the adapter up and running.
Conclusion
Logitech® has finally answered the mail on this one and will make a lot of PS3 owners with Harmony remotes very happy. Currently, the street price for this unit is just over $50. We are going to see if other IR remotes can be programmed to work with this adapter as well. In the mean time, Harmony remote users finally have a solution that is easy to setup and works well. -
Kevin Nakano |