Blu-ray Player vs. Cable Box Remote Control: Why the Difference?
Understanding TV and Device Control with Modern HDTVs
Many owners of newer HDTVs discover their TV remote can operate as a universal remote, though compatibility isn't universal. Let's investigate how contemporary televisions manage connected devices, and how those devices can interact with the TV.
A Reader's Experience
A reader contacted us, surprised to find their Samsung HDTV remote controlling a Blu-ray player – even one not manufactured by Samsung. Their wife had always used the TV remote for this purpose. However, the same remote failed to control an older DVD player or their cable box.
The question was: why could the remote control one device but not others, despite never being programmed for such functionality?
The Role of CEC
The explanation lies in the Consumer Electronics Control (CEC) protocol. It's not direct infrared control, but rather the TV accepting commands from its remote and relaying them to other devices via the HDMI cable.
CEC is a valuable feature integrated into the HDMI specifications, yet it's often misunderstood due to varying branding by electronics manufacturers.
Branding and Marketing of CEC
Instead of a standardized name, companies often market CEC under different labels. Samsung uses Anynet+, Panasonic employs EZ-Sync, and LG calls it SimpleLink.
This branding, while potentially boosting sales of compatible products, can create confusion for consumers. Despite the different names, the underlying technology remains consistent.
HDMI and CEC Compatibility
CEC has been a part of HDMI specifications since HDMI 1.0. All HDMI cables compliant with the specifications support CEC, utilizing the 13th wire/pin for this service.
While every cable must support CEC, manufacturers aren't obligated to implement it in their devices. However, CEC support is becoming increasingly common in modern HDTVs and Blu-ray players.
No Need to Upgrade Cables
Because CEC has been included in the standard for over a decade, upgrading your HDMI cable isn't necessary to utilize CEC functionality. CEC enables a single device or remote to manage up to 10 CEC-enabled devices connected via HDMI.
Applying This to Your Setup
In your specific case, your Samsung TV is likely communicating with your Blu-ray player through CEC via HDMI. Your older DVD player, probably connected with composite or component cables, cannot utilize CEC.
Your cable box may be older or, even if newer and connected via HDMI, may lack CEC compatibility.
Further Exploration
Related: HTG Reviews the Google Chromecast: Stream Video to Your TV
CEC is a powerful feature that many consumers aren't fully utilizing. It allows for features like devices automatically turning on the TV, adjusting volume, displaying messages, and switching inputs.
For example, a Google Chromecast can turn on the TV, switch to the correct input, and begin playback with a single command, all facilitated by CEC.
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