Logitech Harmony Remote

Finally a color screen remote control that learns all your codes without requiring a MIT degree to program. Due in stores this spring, here is a sneak peek of this miniature marvel.

The Harmony 880 is affordable, easy to set up and simple to use. It can control any electronic component that uses an infrared receiver, and each remote can control as many as 15 devices.

Optimized for HDTV and PVR systems, the 880 easily lets you switch your television between video aspect ratios depending on the program source. The color display lets you choose a 16:9 ratio for movies and HDTV, or a standard 4:3 ratio for basic television programming.

To set-up, connect your remote to your computer and the Web wizard walks you step-by-step. Enter in your model numbers for your components, then answer a few easy questions about how you “Watch TV” or “Watch a DVD.”

The Harmony 880 also includes a docking station that keeps the remote fully charged, so you will never need to replace batteries again. Available Spring 2005. ($249; www.logitech.com/harmony)