Breanne-ga,
Interesting problem!
I had a similar problem with an old VCR remote, and for me the
solution was a company called Replacement Remotes. They specialize in
original remote controls -- both fixing your original remote, and
selling you a replacement original.
First, visit their web site and browse through the pictures of remotes
for your Phillips / Sylvania TV. If you can locate one that has the
same buttons in the same place, it's a good bet you can purchase it
and have a working remote again. Note that the correct remote for
your Sylvania may say "Phillips" on the casing. Typically, they
charge between $20 and $35 for the replacement.
Main Page for Replacement Remotes
http://www.replacementremotes.com/
Sylvania (Phillips / Magnavox) Remotes
http://www.replacementremotes.com/philips/
They have pictures of 223 original remotes in this category. On their
main page, they say "We have Thousands of remote controls. If we don't
have the exact remote, we will get you a close replacement."
Next, if that doesn't bear fruit, they can probably fix your existing
remote control for $23. Here's an excerpt from their repair page:
"We can fix most remotes with keys that won't function properly
(intermittent) or have stopped transmitting for $23.,
learning remotes, multi-circuit and remotes with slide bars are
$33.
Shipping is included in price."
Replacement Remotes Repair Info Page
http://www.replacementremotes.com/repair.htm
For repair, they suggest you send your remote control, telephone
number, email address, a check for $23, and a note explaining the
problem (i.e. "nothing happens") to:
REPLACEMENT REMOTES
146 Northstar Dr.
Rural Hall, NC. 27045
They ask that you allow 7 to 10 days for the repair, but claim that
most repairs are mailed back within just 72 hours.
I called them and explained the situation, and they seemed confident
that you should be able to find a replacement, and also said they
could repair yours if you couldn't find a new one. However, since I
don't have the remote here in front of me, they can't make promises.
Personally, I would first attempt to locate a replacement using the
pictures (above). Then if that doesn't produce an obvious winner, I'd
call them at 336-969-1842 with the remote handy. They may be able to
find a replacement remote that you missed, or assure you of their
ability to repair your existing one.
They only work on infra-red remotes -- not the really really old kind
that use noises to change the channels.
When I had my problem, I emailed back and forth a bit before I bought
my replacement, and they came across as very capable, and certainly
confident in their ability to fix just about any remote. In my case,
mine was missing, so I had to buy a new one. The transaction was very
smooth, and everything worked great.
Thanks again for the interesting problem, and enjoy watching TV
without the channel number on display!
-Boingo |
