How can you tell if a remote control is working?
Christopher Pierce
Published Mar 24, 2026
How can you tell if a remote control is working?
Check If Your Remote Control Is Working. Most remote controls use infrared light to transmit the signal. While the human eye cannot see this light, a camera can easily spot it. So, using a phone or digital camera, here’s a simple way to tell whether your remote is transmitting signals or not.
What do the codes on the remote control mean?
The codes are the universal defaults for that particular TV, DVR, DVD or VCR. Whether your universal remote control is made by GE, Sony, RCA or Philips, the codes will work if programmed correctly.
Where do I enter the code for my TV remote?
Manually turn on your TV (or device you want to control) Press the TV (or device) button and hold for 5 seconds until the LED flashes twice. LED will remain lit. Find the programming code for your TV (or device) in the code list below and enter it using the Number Buttons. The LED flashes once after entering each digit if the code is accepted.
Where can I buy a new TV remote control?
Welcome to ReplacementRemotes.com – the best place to shop for new remote controls, or to get your existing remote control repaired. We understand there’s nothing more annoying than losing or damaging your TV remote control, and having to heft yourself off of the couch every time you want to change the channel.
Check If Your Remote Control Is Working. Most remote controls use infrared light to transmit the signal. While the human eye cannot see this light, a camera can easily spot it. So, using a phone or digital camera, here’s a simple way to tell whether your remote is transmitting signals or not.
The codes are the universal defaults for that particular TV, DVR, DVD or VCR. Whether your universal remote control is made by GE, Sony, RCA or Philips, the codes will work if programmed correctly.
Manually turn on your TV (or device you want to control) Press the TV (or device) button and hold for 5 seconds until the LED flashes twice. LED will remain lit. Find the programming code for your TV (or device) in the code list below and enter it using the Number Buttons. The LED flashes once after entering each digit if the code is accepted.
Welcome to ReplacementRemotes.com – the best place to shop for new remote controls, or to get your existing remote control repaired. We understand there’s nothing more annoying than losing or damaging your TV remote control, and having to heft yourself off of the couch every time you want to change the channel.
