06.18.2009 — Universal Remote Control (URC), which is "officially entering the commerical market" at InfoComm 09, has released its first ZigBee remote, the MX-880z, that helps eliminate RF collision.

The ZigBee RF and IR hard-button remote has a two-inch LCD color screen and a RF-to-IR base station, the MRZ-260. URC says RF collision, a common problem for hotels, apartments, condos, etc., will be eliminated when the MX-880z and MRZ-260 are used together.

URC says the ZigBee technology gives each remote a unique ZigBee network ID. They don't compete for assignable RF frequencies when too many remotes are close together, which eliminates collision of the signals.

The MX-880z also features:

• Ability to control up to 48 devices
• Up to 8 pages for each device
• Creation of status menus in macros
• Text labeling
• Set of preprinted room labels
• Built-in motion sensor to activate backlight

Each of the MRZ-260's four IR outputs (two adjustable, two fixed) can simultaneously operate components controlled by four separate MX-880z remote controls. The MRZ-260 also features a built-in front panel IR blaster, mounting bracket and power supply.

URC, which has also joined the ZigBee Alliance, uses its Complete Control Program (CCP) to program the MX-880z. The MX880z and MRZ-260 are both currently available.

MSRP: MX-880z ($539.95); MRZ-260 ($189.95)


URC MX-880z ZigBee Remote (left) and MRZ-260 RF-to-IR Base Station