The CEC: Consumer Electronic Control

HDMI is a structural channel that simplifies cabling and provides the gateway to system-wide intelligence.  For HDMI compliant devices, there is a “universal” remote that can be used, called the consumer electronic control (CEC).  This technology allows multiple electronic devices to be linked together for simultaneous usage by remote.  The remote can connect to a number of multiple devices that support the CEC technology.  This allows easy use of a fully furnished home theater system.  For instance, a camcorder and HD satellite supported television may be powered on/off at the same time with the push of only one button.  An HDTV remote will be able to select the correct input automatically on an A/V receiver and a television by simply pushing play on the DVD player.

Another fantastic use of the CEC is the “remote control pass through” application.  Instead of using a secondary device to receive the infrared signal so that devices behind opaque surfaces in the entertainment center can still be used, the HDTV remote may be used to control all of the other hidden devices as well.  Also, a CEC enabled HDTV remote can change channels on the set-top box tuner, without the need of a separate remote control.

There is no programming necessary, like with the traditional universal remote.  Also, the devices a consumer wants to sync up do not need to be made by the same manufacturer.  Any device that supports CEC technology will be compatible with the remote control.