First Impressions PS3IR-Pro

[Autoscan]

Impressed with the way it connects with the PS3 and the operation has no noticible delay in control.

I can't belive you ship a device like this without a power supply. It should come complete to be able to connect to the PS3.

the current firmware version should be labeled on the unit before shipping.

i like being able to connect to the back of the device for ir input. you need to change the instruction to state "while looking at the back of the device with the usb on the right".

i am experincing while the unit is connected to a ir repeating  system with multiple ir emitters. Your unit bleeds back voltage to the remaining emitters and turns on the blinking indicators. Can you fix this so the system does not have emitters lights on? However if you are using a RP6 system this is not a issue.

I have been reading the different blogs on the power on and power off. and the issue of getting the system out of sync. I can see using a power monitor for the system to indicate if the system is off would be very useful to those that are using a ir only universal remote. this would keep from having a long discrete off command.

the following is what I have found to work. Please if i am missing something let me know.

during selection of the PS3 source you would send a PS command for discrete on. (this would turn on the PS3 and release the other commands for use)

during system off you would add a PS command to your macro.

then a 8 second delay

then you would send the PS3IR-Pro discrete off command.

even if you manually turn off the PS3 this would turn off the PS3. With the long wait time this is not a convenient discrete off for those with a IR only remote. With a RF remote the wait does not have to inconvenience you. the other down fall with this macro is the PS3 is always power cycled during a system off command even if you did not use your PS3. But i rather have the PS3 off then on.

[MMuecke]

Impressed with the way it connects with the PS3 and the operation has no noticible delay in control.
Thanks! We really appreciate the comments.

I can't belive you ship a device like this without a power supply. It should come complete to be able to connect to the PS3.
Here is the reasoning. I chose USB power since most installations have an unused USB port available. Very few people actually use a power adapter for this reason. This means one less power adapter and makes for a cleaner setup. Also, since we ship worldwide, it would be tricky to get the right mains version to each customer. On the other hand, USB chargers are readily available locally anywhere on the planet these days. And it will have the correct mains connector as well as the proper local regulatory qualifications.

the current firmware version should be labeled on the unit before shipping.
I don't really agree since this will lead to an incorrect label as soon as the firmware is updated as most won't bother to change the label. But, I'll think about it. IMHO, the better option would be that it shows up in the device description when you plug it into a PC.  I also have attempted to keep the Installation instruction version the same as the firmware version so you can tell what was initially shipped by glancing at the installation instructions. Perhaps I can put a sticker on the instructions that explicitly indicates the version that was shipped.

i like being able to connect to the back of the device for ir input. you need to change the instruction to state "while looking at the back of the device with the usb on the right".
Thanks for the heads up!

i am experincing while the unit is connected to a ir repeating  system with multiple ir emitters. Your unit bleeds back voltage to the remaining emitters and turns on the blinking indicators. Can you fix this so the system does not have emitters lights on? However if you are using a RP6 system this is not a issue.

I'm not surprised as there is a pullup resistor on the input. I can fix this in a future firmware release. However, you would need to unplug the IR Receiver inside the PS3IR-PRO because it has a pullup resistor built-in. The IR receiver is socketed so this wouldn't be all that difficult to do. When I update the PCB layout I will certainly take advantage of all the excellent feedback.

I have been reading the different blogs on the power on and power off. and the issue of getting the system out of sync. I can see using a power monitor for the system to indicate if the system is off would be very useful to those that are using a ir only universal remote. this would keep from having a long discrete off command.

the following is what I have found to work. Please if i am missing something let me know.

during selection of the PS3 source you would send a PS command for discrete on. (this would turn on the PS3 and release the other commands for use)

during system off you would add a PS command to your macro.

then a 8 second delay

then you would send the PS3IR-Pro discrete off command.

even if you manually turn off the PS3 this would turn off the PS3. With the long wait time this is not a convenient discrete off for those with a IR only remote. With a RF remote the wait does not have to inconvenience you. the other down fall with this macro is the PS3 is always power cycled during a system off command even if you did not use your PS3. But i rather have the PS3 off then on.

That certainly will work but the general feeling is that most people don't want to have the long power off or power cycle the PS3 (as you mentioned). Of course, with a true discrete off implemented via the cable, only the Power Off command would be needed.

We really appreciate the detailed feedback. See the answers above.

[Autoscan]

Okay i understand now why you don't supply a power supply. I think you need to update your website to state you will need some type of power source, and a list of solutions.

As far as firmware since the update software does not show your current firmware, this is why we would like to know what firmware is shipped on the unit. This way we are not wasting time loading a firmware that is already loaded.

According to your reply if i remove the ir receiver will this solve the blinking issue?

Thanks for the feedback.

[MMuecke]

It should.

[cfisher]

Gonna have to agree with one point: Some sort of note on the Product Page that you'll need a powered USB port - NOT the PS3 ports - or some sort of hub or other supply would be helpful.

I *think* I have an unused USB port on my PVR - that *might* power the Pro...not sure though...otherwise I've got to go buy a hub...or USB charger...tomorrow...or Saturday...

[nervich]

I just purchased the PS3IR-Pro based on web reviews, and I have to say I'm disappointed.  No indication of on off, no mention till AFTER you've paid for it that you need a separate power source, and, most importantly, I can't get it to work.  I have a Harmony One, and it updated correctly after I set up the way the shipped info states.  But, after plugging into a powered USB port and and pressing 0 on the remote, nothing happens.  Which screen changes?  The remote or the TV?  How does it change?  I just spent $100 on your product.... a little more detail would be helpful.
Thanks

[MMuecke]

First of all, I'm proud to say that we have shipped thousands of these to very happy customers. It's the best solution available, by far. Just in case you were wondering if you made the right purchase. 

I agree about the power indicator. We are adding that soon. We will also look into making it more clear about needing the power supply or a place to plug it into a powered USB port. It's there but, obviously if you didn't see it, we need to adjust the message.

Part of what is happening is that we are now reaching a much wider audience. Up until recently, most of our customers were very familiar with the problem we are solving and the need for a power supply. We will be adding more content.

As far as pairing your PRO I have a few suggestions:
1) Please make sure the PS3 is at the Pair BD remote control screen.
2) Also be sure that the Harmony remote is in the watch DVD mode so it will send the proper commands.
3) Within 14 seconds of plugging in the PRO device, press the zero number key on the Harmony remote.
4) Make sure you are pointing the Harmony remote at the IR window of the PS3IR-PRO.

[mtsmagic]

Very first impression...not positive.

I just pulled my PS3IR-PRO from the shipping box and this is the first time I realized that it does not use the PS3 USB for its power source.  I immediately came to the website to double check that I'd overlooked this basic requirement...and confirmed that the website's statements do NOT make clear that the product is not shipped with a power supply, nor that the PS3 cannot be used for that purpose.  Frankly, it's not only unclear, but a bit deceptive.  It reads "externally powered via the USB port", but no mention of using something other than the PS3 to provide that power.  Guess I should have registered for product support before purchase so I would have found out this is a common complain. 

Of course, I only ordered one unit and you shipped me two, so...  The devil's in the details, as they say.  Now, I'll figure out how to get an additional USB power source into my cabinet and see if this thing even works as promised.  I was excited about the product, now I'm skeptical only minutes after opening the box because of the poor business practices.

[Autoscan]

I used a  AC to USB power adaptor from a company Called Cables To Go part number 22328. I picked mine up from Micro Center or you can buy direct. Unit is compact and has plenty of power output.

I have been running two systems for clients for almost two months no problems.

Both units are connected directly with IR input. Depending on which ir repeating system you are using you might need to remove the ir receiver if you are connecting directly.

Don't forget you will also need to purchase a usb cable for power.

[corival]

Of course, I only ordered one unit and you shipped me two, so...

I ordered one last week and received none. Maybe you also received mine
Can you ship the extra unit you received to me?

I was aware of the missing usb power adapter, but haven't decided which to buy (I live in the Netherlands)
See my quetion in topic http://ps3ir.com/simplemachinesforum/index.php?topic=180.0

Can you use the usb adapter also for charging the controlers?

[Hairbear1954]

Not sure if this was the intent of the thread, but since my opinion is the same as many already stated here I will give mine here as well.

I also was unaware that I could not plug the pro into the PS3 and now need to figure out a different way of powering it. I am sure with my cable DVR box, my HDTV (Sharp Aquos) or my DVD-VCR Combo must have one port that is powered, but not sure. Otherwise, I am going to have to rob the one off of my computer or buy another one.

Obviously, I did not understand in what I read in the description on the website, so yes, please make it more clear for newbies. Also, make a list of what devices (sampling of items) have powered usb or what examples you could buy. I was not prepared for this after purchasing the device.

I also notice the connections in the back of this unit are not firmly attached to the board/black box. The board moves loosely around inside of the case. Is that normal?

I am anxious to get this unit up and running. I just purchased a Sony surround system and a Harmony One to try to unclutter my otherwise cluttered unit. I am hoping the Pro will bring all my devices down to one remote now. Thanks for developing this for us.

[MMuecke]

If it was perfect, the board shouldn't move much at all. It sounds like the adhesive tape that holds the board in place is loose. But, as long as the USB cable goes into the connector on the back panel, you are golden. If it ever is an issue, feel free to open up the box and move the PCB into position. We will also be happy to fix it if you send it back to us. Now that the volume of sales has reached a such a large number, we do see an occasional problem with manufacturing. We strive for perfection but, occasionally we do goof up. We're proud to say that the number of defective units is still incredibly small considering we have shipped thousands.

We appologize for the problem and rest assured we are constantly improving our process.

[jmeyeris]

My first impressions are not too great.

1)  Like the earlier post, my board is loose in the case.
2)  My unit shipped in the last week yet I didn't appear to have the latest firmware.  According to the firmware loading program I had firmware 1.0 (I was unable to use the hardwire input until I updated the firmware).
3)  I expected the unit to power on and off the PS3 and have the controls work well.  Despite all of my efforts, I haven't been able to get it to power off the PS3 and the controls seem to work sporadically.  When I am in the PS menu, the arrows do not work properly (one push of the arrow moves the cursor all the way in that direction).  I realize this may be due to issues with the Harmony One remote, but I have been unable to fix with different repeat settings.
4)  The directions for the firmware update are confusing "Plug in the PS3IR-PRO into a USB port on the PC3".  At first I thought it was a typo and you meant PS3.  I finally realized it should have been worded "Plug the PS3IR-PRO into a USB port on your PC".
5)  The one page directions were great ... except things didn't work.  I was hoping to find a more in-depth manual on the website rather than sifting through a bunch of posts trying to find ideas of what to try next. 

[MMuecke]

First of all, I am very happy that you are expecting so much from us. That means that we are gowing. We started out as a very small provider of a home brew solution. Nice to see that that the bar has been raised and we are expected to join the big leagues. To that end, we are adding more polish to the product, packaging, and documentation. Your feedback is appreciated and we will incorporate suggestions.

I am totally blown away by the perception that it had old firmware though. We don't peogram anything but V9 here and more importantly, we test every unit before it ships. So, it would not have passed the final test with older firmware since the pairing method is different. I'm stumped on that one.

Please feel free to email customer support if you still have any outstanding issues. We are still small enough to provide individual customer service. If all else fails, a phone call usually takes care of any issues in just a few minutes. We always get everything working in the end. Sorry you have had any difficulty and thanks for your business!

[corival]

My PS3IR-Pro finaly arrived today.

My first impression was: what a large box for such a small and light device.
I had to pay € 25 for taxes/customs on top of the $ 24 for shipping
I bought a usb-charger and usb cable earlier this week, so I could start right away.
The total cost for me were almost $ 180 (PS3IR-PRO, shipping, customs, taxes, charger and cable)

I unpacked the unit and shaked it a bit. I think my board isn't loose 
I updated my Harmony 895 and made some changes to the button lay-out.
Next I followed the (short) instructions for pairing carefully and it seemed to work.

However when I try to start the PS3 with "activities" my remote hangs and I have to remove the battery for a hard reset. When I start the PS3 through "device" everything works. I updated the harmony several times but still no luck through activities.

For now I control the PS3 by starting it as a device instead of an activity. I hope this problem can be fixed soon.

For watching video's I have all the functions I need. But I also use the PS3 to watch Images and I really miss the option to zoom. On the controller this is the right analog stick. Can this function be added to the next firmware update?

[speckled]

Well i can say that this product works realy well, very easy to set up and works a treat.......however some work needs to be done to secure the internal workings inside the case as the first thing i had to do was open it and plug in a usb cable with the lid off and re-assemble it. The USB lead could not plug in properly due to the fact the PCB had moved inside as it was just loose inside the box, i will not be unpluging the lead from the unit as i will have to open the unit everytime i do this. Well done on making my wifes life a lot easier by allowing me to have one universal remote to control  ALL my devices 

[MMuecke]

Thanks for the excellent feedback everyone. It seems that the adhesive we were using let go during shipping due to the temperature extremes. Everything here in the lab was (and is) rock solid. We have changed the PCB adhesive and feel this issue is fixed now.

[cmattp]

I just purchased the PS3IR-Pro based on web reviews, and I have to say I'm disappointed.  No indication of on off, no mention till AFTER you've paid for it that you need a separate power source, and, most importantly, I can't get it to work.  I have a Harmony One, and it updated correctly after I set up the way the shipped info states.  But, after plugging into a powered USB port and and pressing 0 on the remote, nothing happens.  Which screen changes?  The remote or the TV?  How does it change?  I just spent $100 on your product.... a little more detail would be helpful.
Thanks

I am very pleased with the PS3IR-Pro. I installed it and am using a Hotlink IR repeater on it also. Plugged in the usb, pushed 0 on my Harmony One and everything works perfectly. Did you install the PS3IR-Pro as a device, and install your activities first on your Harmony One before setting up the PS3IR-Pro? Oh, and I used a iPhone USB ac adapter to power it

[cmattp]

Thanks for the excellent feedback everyone. It seems that the adhesive we were using let go during shipping due to the temperature extremes. Everything here in the lab was (and is) rock solid. We have changed the PCB adhesive and feel this issue is fixed now.

That was one thing I did notice on mine. I received it Oct 21st, 2008. The board was loose so I opened the unit and pressed the PCB back down on the double sided tape. No big deal to me since it's gonna sit in my entertainment cabinet and never move. What about using some hotmelt, or there is a household adhesive glue called ShooGoo that is thick but sets up in no time. Just some suggestions, I am very pleased with the PS3IR-Pro all around