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DirecTV RC66RX Satellite Receiver Remote Control User's Manual and Code List

DIRECTV RC66RX Remote Control User Manual

Introduction

This guide is designed to help you get the most out of your DIRECTV RC66RX remote control. We'll walk you through everything from initial setup to troubleshooting common problems. We've made the instructions as clear and simple as possible, with step-by-step guidance and helpful illustrations. This manual aims to be your go-to resource for using your remote, so you can enjoy your DIRECTV service without frustration.

Table of Contents

  1. Getting Started
    • 1.1 What's in the Box? (This section assumes a new remote, but can be skipped if replacing an existing one)
    • 1.2 Identifying the Buttons
    • 1.3 Installing Batteries
  2. Programming Your Remote
    • 2.1 Programming for Your DIRECTV Receiver
    • 2.2 Programming for Your TV (Power, Volume, Mute)
    • 2.3 Programming for RF mode (if you hide your receiver).
  3. Using Your Remote
    • 3.1 Basic Operations (Power, Channel Changing, Volume, etc.)
    • 3.2 Using the Guide
    • 3.3 Using the List (DVR Recordings)
    • 3.4 Using the Menu
    • 3.5 Using the Info Button
    • 3.6 Using the Colored Buttons
  4. Troubleshooting
    • 4.1 Remote Doesn't Control the DIRECTV Receiver
    • 4.2 Remote Doesn't Control the TV
    • 4.3 Remote Works Intermittently
    • 4.4 Specific Buttons Not Working
    • 4.5 "Searching for Signal" Message
  5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
  6. Code List

1. Getting Started

1.1 What's in the Box?

  • DIRECTV RC66RX Remote Control
  • Two (2) AA Batteries (May be pre-installed)
  • This User Manual (You're reading it!)

1.2 Identifying the Buttons

Let's get familiar with the buttons on your RC66RX remote. We'll use the same terms as the labels on the remote itself. Refer to the picture of the remote at the beginning of this manual.

  • Top Row:
    • TV INPUT: Switches between different video sources on your TV (like HDMI1, HDMI2, Cable, etc.).
    • &TV POWER (ON/OFF): Turns your TV on and off.
    • PWR: Turns your DIRECTV receiver on and off.
  • Navigation Area (Center):
    • Arrow Keys (Up, Down, Left, Right): Used to navigate menus and the on-screen guide.
    • SELECT: Confirms a selection.
    • GUIDE: Displays the on-screen program guide.
    • LIST: Shows your recorded programs (if you have a DVR).
    • EXIT: Closes menus or returns to the previous screen.
    • BACK: Goes back one step in menus.
    • INFO: Displays information about the current program.
    • MENU: Opens the main DIRECTV menu.
  • Playback Controls (Below Navigation):
    • Rewind (<<): Rewinds the program.
    • Play/Pause (>/||): Plays or pauses the program.
    • Fast Forward (>>): Fast forwards the program.
    • Record (R): Records the current program (if you have a DVR).
    • Stop: Not pictured, but a commonly used DirecTV function. Press the EXIT button to stop.
  • Volume/Channel Area:
    • VOL (+/-): Increases or decreases the TV volume.
    • CHAN/PAGE (+/-): Changes channels or moves up/down pages in the guide.
    • MUTE: Silences the TV sound.
    • PREV: Returns to the previously viewed channel.
  • Number Pad:
    • 0-9: Used to enter channel numbers directly.
    • ENTER: Sometimes used to confirm selections (often interchangeable with SELECT).
    • DASH (-): Used for certain advanced functions, or sub-channels.
  • Colored Buttons (Red, Green, Yellow, Blue): These buttons have different functions depending on the context. On-screen prompts will usually tell you what they do.
  • Mode Switch: Located at the top of the remote. This switch must be set correctly to control either your DIRECTV receiver or your TV.

1.3 Installing Batteries

  1. Turn the remote over so the back is facing up.
  2. Locate the battery compartment cover. It usually has a small arrow or indentation.
  3. Press down on the cover and slide it in the direction of the arrow (usually downwards) to open it.
  4. Insert two AA batteries, making sure to match the "+" and "-" symbols inside the compartment with the corresponding markings on the batteries.
  5. Slide the battery compartment cover back on until it clicks into place.

2. Programming Your Remote

2.1 Programming for Your DIRECTV Receiver

In most cases, your RC66RX remote will automatically work with your DIRECTV receiver when you first set up the receiver. However, if it's not working, or if you get a new receiver, follow these steps:

  1. Turn on your DIRECTV receiver and your TV.
  2. Make sure there are no obstructions between the remote and the receiver.
  3. The receiver should detect the remote. If prompted on the TV screen, follow the instructions to complete the pairing.
  4. If your receiver is an H25, HR34, or if the receiver does not prompt for a connection, you will need to program it manually.
    1. Press and hold MUTE & SELECT, wait for the green light to flash twice, then release.
    2. Enter 961.
    3. Press CHAN up.
    4. Enter the last 6 digits of the RID number, located inside the battery compartment of your receiver or on a sticker on the back of your receiver.
    5. Press SELECT.

If the remote still doesn't control the receiver, see the Troubleshooting section (Section 4).

2.2 Programming for Your TV (Power, Volume, Mute)

To control your TV's power, volume, and mute functions, you need to program the remote with a code specific to your TV brand.

Method 1: Automatic Code Search (Recommended)

  1. Turn on your TV.
  2. Slide the mode switch at the top of the remote to "TV".
  3. Press and hold the MUTE and SELECT buttons at the same time. Hold them down until the small green light at the top of the remote flashes twice.
  4. Enter the code 991.
  5. Press 1.
  6. Press the PWR button (the one under &TV). The TV should turn off. If not, repeatedly press Channel Up (CHAN/PAGE +) one at a time until the TV turns off. Be patient; this may take many presses.
  7. As soon as the TV turns off, press the SELECT button to lock in the code.
  8. Test the power, volume, and mute buttons to make sure they work correctly.

Method 2: Direct Code Entry (If you know your TV's code)

  1. Turn on your TV.
  2. Find the 5-digit code for your TV brand. You can find this:
    • On the DIRECTV website: Search online for "DIRECTV remote control codes."
    • In a printed list of codes (if you have one).
  3. Slide the mode switch at the top of the remote to "TV".
  4. Press and hold MUTE and SELECT until the green light flashes twice.
  5. Enter the 5-digit code you found. The green light should flash twice to confirm.
  6. Test the power, volume, and mute buttons.

Method 3: Manual Code Search

  1. Turn on your TV.
  2. Move the mode switch to the TV position.
  3. Press and hold Mute and Select until the visible LED flashes twice.
  4. Enter code 9-9-1. The visible LED will flash twice.
  5. Press 1.
  6. Aim the remote at your tv and press PWR.
  7. Press Channel Up, one at a time, until the device turns off.
  8. When the TV turns off, press Select.

If you can't find a code that works, see the Troubleshooting section.

2.3 Programming for RF Mode

The remote is preset to work in IR mode. To set up for RF, follow these steps:

1. Press and hold MUTE & SELECT, wait for the green light to flash twice, then release.

2. Enter 961.

3. Press CHAN up.

4. Enter the last 6 digits of the RID number, located inside the battery compartment of your receiver or on a sticker on the back of your receiver.

5. Press SELECT.

3. Using Your Remote

3.1 Basic Operations

  • Turning On/Off:
    • Press PWR to turn the DIRECTV receiver on or off.
    • Press &TV POWER (ON/OFF) to turn your TV on or off. Remember to program the remote for your TV first (Section 2.2).
  • Changing Channels:
    • Use the CHAN/PAGE buttons to move up or down through the channels one at a time.
    • Use the number pad to enter a channel number directly.
  • Adjusting Volume:
    • Use the VOL buttons to increase or decrease the TV volume. Remember to program the remote for your TV first.
    • Press MUTE to silence the TV sound. Press it again to unmute.
  • Returning to the Previous Channel:
    • Press PREV to go back to the channel you were watching before.

3.2 Using the Guide

  1. Press the GUIDE button. The on-screen program guide will appear.
  2. Use the arrow keys to move around the guide:
    • Up/Down: Move to different channels.
    • Left/Right: Move to different times.
    • CHAN/PAGE Up/Down: Move up or down a whole page at a time.
  3. To see more information about a program, highlight it and press INFO.
  4. To watch a program, highlight it and press SELECT.
  5. To exit the guide, press EXIT.

3.3 Using the List (DVR Recordings)

  1. Press the LIST button. This will show you a list of your recorded programs (if you have a DIRECTV DVR receiver).
  2. Use the arrow keys to highlight the program you want to watch.
  3. Press SELECT to start playing the program.
  4. Use the playback control buttons (Rewind, Play/Pause, Fast Forward, Stop) to control playback.
  5. To exit the list, press EXIT.

3.4 Using the Menu

  1. Press the MENU button. This will open the main DIRECTV menu.
  2. Use the arrow keys to navigate through the menu options.
  3. Press SELECT to choose an option.
  4. Press EXIT or BACK to go back or exit the menu.

3.5 Using the Info Button

  1. While watching a program, press the INFO button. This will display information about the program, such as the title, description, actors, and rating.
  2. Press INFO again to see more detailed information.
  3. Press EXIT to close the information display.

3.6 Using the Colored Buttons

The red, green, yellow, and blue buttons often have special functions that change depending on what you're doing. Look for on-screen prompts that tell you what these buttons do in a particular menu or screen.

4. Troubleshooting

4.1 Remote Doesn't Control the DIRECTV Receiver

  • Problem: The remote doesn't do anything – it doesn't change channels, access the guide, or turn the receiver on/off.
    • Solution 1: Check the Batteries:
      • Make sure the batteries are installed correctly, matching the "+" and "-" symbols.
      • Try new, fresh AA batteries.
    • Solution 2: Check for Obstructions (IR Mode):
      • Make sure there's nothing blocking the front of your DIRECTV receiver. The remote needs a clear line of sight to work in IR mode.
      • Stand close to the receiver and point the remote directly at it.
    • Solution 3: Check RF/IR Mode:
      • If your receiver is hidden (in a cabinet, for example), you must use RF mode. See Section 2.3 for instructions on setting up RF mode.
      • If your receiver is not hidden, make sure the remote is in IR mode. To set it back to IR, follow steps 1 & 2 of the RF setup, then, enter 960.
    • Solution 4: Restart the Receiver:
      • Unplug the DIRECTV receiver from the power outlet.
      • Wait 15 seconds.
      • Plug the receiver back in.
      • Wait for the receiver to fully restart (this may take a few minutes).
    • Solution 5: Remote Failure:
      • If you've tried everything else, the remote itself might be faulty. Try using another DIRECTV remote if you have one.
    • Solution 6: Reprogram:
      • Reprogram the remote for your DirecTV receiver.

4.2 Remote Doesn't Control the TV (Power, Volume, Mute)

  • Problem: The remote controls the DIRECTV receiver, but it doesn't control your TV's power, volume, or mute.
    • Solution 1: Check the Mode Switch:
      • Make sure the mode switch at the top of the remote is set to "TV" when you're trying to control the TV.
    • Solution 2: Re-program the TV Code:
      • Follow the instructions in Section 2.2 to program the remote for your TV. Try both the Automatic Code Search and the Direct Code Entry methods. Use the DIRECTV website to find the correct code for your TV brand.
    • Solution 3: Check for TV IR Sensor Obstruction:
      • Make sure nothing is blocking the IR sensor on your TV itself. This is usually a small, dark window on the front of the TV.
    • Solution 4: TV Compatibility:
      • In rare cases, very old or unusual TV models might not be fully compatible with universal remotes.

4.3 Remote Works Intermittently

  • Problem: The remote sometimes works and sometimes doesn't.
    • Solution 1: Weak Batteries:
      • Replace the batteries with fresh ones.
    • Solution 2: IR Interference:
      • Bright sunlight, fluorescent lights, or other electronic devices can sometimes interfere with the IR signal. Try dimming the lights or moving away from other devices.
    • Solution 3: RF Interference (if in RF mode):
      • Other devices using the 2.4 GHz frequency (like some Wi-Fi routers, microwaves, or Bluetooth devices) can interfere. Try temporarily turning off other wireless devices to see if it helps. If it does, try changing the Wi-Fi channel on your router.
    • Solution 4: Distance:
    • The range is about 100 ft. when used in RF mode.

4.4 Specific Buttons Not Working

  • Problem: One or more specific buttons on the remote don't work.
    • Solution 1: Check for Stuck Buttons:
      • Make sure the button isn't physically stuck down.
    • Solution 2: Remote Damage:
      • Inspect the remote for any signs of physical damage, such as cracks or spills.

4.5 "Searching for Signal" Message

  • Problem: You see a "Searching for Signal" message on your TV screen.
    • This is usually NOT a remote control problem. It's usually an issue with your DIRECTV receiver, the satellite dish, or the cabling.
    • Solution 1: Check Cable Connections:
      • Make sure all cables are securely connected to the receiver, the dish, and the wall outlets.
    • Solution 2: Restart the Receiver:
      • Unplug the receiver, wait 15 seconds, and plug it back in.
    • Solution 3: Check for Dish Obstructions:
      • Make sure nothing is blocking the satellite dish's view of the sky (trees, buildings, etc.).
    • Solution 4: Contact DIRECTV Support:
      • If you've tried these steps and still have the problem, contact DIRECTV customer support for assistance.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • Q: Can I control other devices with this remote, like a Blu-ray player or soundbar?
      • Battery Safety:
        • Do not mix old and new batteries.
        • Do not mix different types of batteries (e.g., alkaline and rechargeable).
        • Do not dispose of batteries in fire.
        • Follow battery manufacturer's instructions for proper disposal or recycling.
      • Online Resources: The DIRECTV website provides a lot of helpful information, including:
        • Remote control code lookup.
        • Troubleshooting guides.
        • FAQs.

      Contacting DIRECTV: For complex issues, especially those with your receiver, signal, or account, it is best to contact them directly.

      • A: The RC66RX is primarily designed to control your DIRECTV receiver and your TV (power, volume, and mute). It may have limited functionality with some other devices, but it's not a full-featured universal remote. For best results with other devices, consider using the remote that came with that device or a dedicated universal remote.

      • Q: What's the difference between IR and RF mode?

        • A: IR (Infrared) mode requires a direct line of sight between the remote and the receiver. You have to point the remote at the receiver. RF (Radio Frequency) mode does not require a direct line of sight. The signal can go through walls and cabinets, so you can hide your DIRECTV receiver.

      • Q: How do I know if my remote is in RF mode?

        • A: There's no light or indicator on the remote itself. The easiest way to tell is to try controlling the receiver from another room or with the receiver hidden. If it works, you're in RF mode. If it only works when you point it directly at the receiver, you're in IR mode.

      • Q: How do I reset the remote?

        • A: To reset the remote and clear all programming (TV codes and RF pairing), follow these steps:
          1. Slide the mode switch to "DIRECTV" (or any position other than "TV").
          2. Press and hold MUTE and SELECT until the green light flashes twice.
          3. Enter 981. The green light will flash four times to confirm the reset.

      • Q: My remote is controlling the wrong device.

        • A: Make sure the slider on the top of the remote is in the correct position (DIRECTV or TV).

      • Q: Can I use rechargeable batteries in this remote?

        • A: Yes, but be sure to use AA NiMH (Nickel Metal Hydride) rechargeable batteries.

      • Q: Which receivers is this compatible with?

        • A: It is known to work with many DIRECTV receivers, particularly those in the H, HR, R, and D series. This includes, but is not limited to: H Series: H20, H21, H22, H23, H24, H25 HR Series: HR20, HR21, HR22, HR23, HR24, HR34. R Series: R15, R16, R22. D Series: Primarily D12, but may work with some D11 models. It is also used with other, less common models.

       

      6. DirecTV RC66RX Code List

      Here is a list of some common codes that are used with the DirecTV RC66RX Remote Control:

      TV Brand Common Codes
      Insignia
      11447, 10171, 11204, 11326, 11517, 11641, 11710, 11780, 11785, 11892, 11963, 12002, 12049, 12183, 12417, 10463, 11314, 11348, 11564, 11660, 12751
      LG
      11423, 10178, 11178, 12358, 10856, 10700, 11993, 12424, 11768, 12731, 12854
      Panasonic
      10250, 10051, 10650, 11271, 11410, 11454, 11457, 11480, 11531, 11928, 11941, 12006
      Philips
      11454, 10054, 10690, 11154, 11744, 11806, 12387, 12759, 11994
      RCA
      11447, 12434, 10178, 11247, 11347, 11547, 11947, 12002, 12187, 10047, 10051, 10463, 10679, 11564, 11810, 11892, 11963, 12049, 12417, 12751
      Samsung
      10812, 10060, 10766, 10814, 10702, 10179, 10650, 10030, 11903, 11060, 10587, 12051, 11959, 11768, 11632, 11470, 11290, 10482, 10329, 10217, 10178, 10145, 10093, 10037, 10032
      Sharp
      10818, 10093, 10386, 11604, 10165, 11967
      Sony
      10000, 10810, 11317, 11685, 11904, 11960
      Toshiba
      11524, 10156, 11256, 11343, 10060, 11156, 11656, 11704, 11935, 12184, 10650, 10822, 11265, 11360
      Vizio
      11758, 11756, 10864, 10885
      Hisense
      10748, 11660, 12002, 11314, 12049, 11963