Entertain Yourself from the Couch - iConnected: Use AirPlay, iCloud, Apps, and More to Bring Your Apple Devices Together - page 90

The UnityRemote includes a database of common controls for a wide range of popular devices
and brands. If your device isn't in the database, you can “teach” the IR blaster and app that device's
control commands. For more on universal remote controls, see Chapter 9 .
Some cable and satellite providers offer a “multi-room” add-on allowing users to have more than
one set-top box in their home to watch different channels in different rooms — for an extra monthly
fee that can add up over time.
A cheaper option is to send the signal from your main set-top box to that other TV in your bed-
room, using what's called an AV sender device . The prices of these devices differ wildly, so you'll need
to shop around to get a good deal. An AV sender with wireless connectivity and HD quality will be the
most expensive option. The 5.8GHz AV senders also cost more, but they avoid interference with Wi-
Fi networks and cordless phones that the 2.4GHz AV senders often experience.
Of course, AV senders make you walk back to your set-top box to do simple things like change the
channel. You could use an IR blaster to extend the range of your remote control, but IR blasters need
a direct line of sight, so unless your living room has a clear view of your bedroom, they won't help.
A better option is to use a remote device and app such as the UnityRemote mentioned previously .
As long as your iOS device is in range of the UnityRemote's Bluetooth hub, you can control the “mas-
ter” TV's set-top box in the other room. If your TV service provider offers an iOS remote-control app,
you don't need something like UnityRemote, as long as the set-top box is connected to your home
network and thus the Internet to receive commands from your remote-control app.