Sony RMT-D197A DVD Remote Control User's Manual

Sony RMT-D197A DVD Remote Control: Your Complete Guide

This guide is designed to help you understand and use all the features of your Sony RMT-D197A remote control. We'll walk you through each button, explain how to troubleshoot common problems, and provide tips for getting the most out of your DVD viewing experience. This remote often comes bundled with models like the Sony DVP-NS315, DVP-NC615, DVP-NS425P and DVP-NS50P, but it may work with others, as well. Let's get started!

Table of Contents

1. Getting Started

   • What's in the Box 
   • Installing Batteries
   • Understanding the Remote's Range

2. Button-by-Button Guide

   • Top Section (Power, Input, Volume)
   • Number Pad
   • DVD Control Section (Menu, Navigation)
   • Playback Controls (Play, Pause, Stop, etc.)
   • Audio and Subtitle Controls

3. Troubleshooting: Common Problems & Solutions

   • Remote Doesn't Work At All
   • Remote Only Controls Some Functions
   • TV Control Buttons Don't Work
   • Problems with DVD Menus
   • Audio/Subtitle Problems

4. Cleaning and Caring for Your Remote

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

6. Important Safety Information

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1. Getting Started

• What's in the Box (Hypothetical)

  If you were to purchase this remote separately, the box would typically contain:

  • The Sony RMT-D197A Remote Control
  • This User Manual (or a shorter version)
  • Batteries are often, but not always, included.

• Installing Batteries

  1. Locate the Battery Compartment: Look on the back of the remote for a small cover, usually near the bottom. There might be a small arrow or indentation indicating how to open it.
  2. Open the Cover: You may need to slide the cover down, press a small tab, or use a small, flat object (like a coin or butter knife) to gently pry it open. Don't force it!
  3. Insert the Batteries: The RMT-D197A uses two (2) AA batteries. Inside the compartment, you'll see markings showing the correct way to insert the batteries (+ and - ends). Make sure the batteries match these markings.
  4. Close the Cover: Snap the battery compartment cover back into place.

• Understanding the Remote's Range

  This remote uses an invisible light beam (infrared) to communicate with your DVD player. For best results:

  • Point Directly: Aim the front of the remote directly at the front of your DVD player.
  • Stay Within Range: The remote usually works best within about 20-30 feet of the DVD player.
  • Avoid Obstructions: Make sure there's nothing blocking the path between the remote and the DVD player (like furniture, books, or even people).

2. Button-by-Button Guide

This section explains what each button does. We've grouped them for easier understanding.

• Top Section (Power, Input, Volume)

  • OPEN/CLOSE (with eject symbol): This button opens and closes the disc tray on your DVD player. Press it once to open, and again to close.
  • TV INPUT: This button changes the "input" on your TV. Think of it like switching channels, but instead of channels, you're switching between different devices connected to your TV (like your DVD player, cable box, or game console). You might need to press it multiple times to cycle through the options until you see the picture from your DVD player.
  • 1/0 (Power Button): This is the main on/off button. This will likely turn on your Sony DVD player. It may also turn your TV on and off, but this depends on your TV model.
  • VOL + and VOL -: These buttons control the volume of your TV, not the DVD player itself.

• Number Pad (0-9)

  • Direct Chapter/Track Selection: Use these buttons to go directly to a specific chapter on a DVD or a track on a music CD. For example, to go to chapter 12, press 1, then 2.
  • Other Uses: These buttons might have other functions in specific menus or setup screens, but you'll rarely need them for everyday use.

• DVD Control Section (Menu, Navigation)

  • PICTURE NAVI: This button will provide visual images that will help you nevigate the DVD.
  • CLEAR: If you accidentally enter the wrong number, press CLEAR to erase it.
  • AUDIO: This button lets you choose different audio options on your DVD, if the DVD offers them. For example, you might be able to switch between English and Spanish audio, or choose a different sound format (like surround sound).
  • SUBTITLE: This button turns subtitles on or off, and lets you choose different subtitle languages if the DVD offers them.
  • TIME/TEXT: This button usually shows you information about how much time has passed in the movie or how much time is remaining. The "TEXT" function is less common and relates to older TV features.
  • MENU: This button takes you to the main menu of the DVD. The main menu is where you can usually start the movie, select chapters, change settings, and access bonus features.
  • Directional Pad (Up, Down, Left, Right, Center Circle): These arrows are used to move around the DVD menu.
    • Up/Down: Moves the highlight up or down.
    • Left/Right: Moves the highlight left or right.
    • Center Circle (ENTER/SELECT): This is like the "OK" button. Press it to select the highlighted option in a menu.
  • RETURN: This button takes you back to the previous menu or screen. It's like an "undo" button.
  • DISPLAY: This button shows information about the DVD on your TV screen, such as the title, chapter number, and playing time.

• Playback Controls (Play, Pause, Stop, etc.)

  • PREV (<<|): Goes to the beginning of the current chapter or to the previous chapter.
  • REPLAY/ADVANCE: These allow fast navigation forwards or backwards within the current video playing.
  • NEXT (|>>): Goes to the next chapter.
  • FAST/SLOW PLAY (<< and >>): These are your fast-forward and rewind buttons. Pressing them multiple times might change the speed.
  • PLAY (>): Starts or resumes playback.
  • PAUSE (||): Pauses the movie. Press PLAY to resume.
  • STOP (■): Stops playback completely.

3. Troubleshooting: Common Problems & Solutions

This section helps you fix problems you might encounter.

• Problem: Remote Doesn't Work At All

  • Check the Batteries:
    1. Make sure the batteries are new and installed correctly (matching the + and - signs).
    2. Try a fresh set of batteries, even if the current ones seem to have some power.
  • Clear the Path: Make sure nothing is blocking the space between the remote and the DVD player.
  • Get Closer: Try using the remote closer to the DVD player.
  • Check the DVD Player: Make sure the DVD player itself is turned on and working. If you have another remote for the DVD player, try using it to see if the problem is with the player, not this remote.

• Problem: Remote Only Controls Some Functions

  • Replace the Batteries: Weak batteries can cause this.
  • Clean the Buttons: Sometimes, dust or dirt can get under a button and prevent it from working properly. See the "Cleaning" section below.

• Problem: TV Control Buttons (INPUT, VOL) Don't Work

  • TV Compatibility: This remote is primarily designed for Sony DVD players. The TV control buttons might only work with some Sony TVs, and may not work with other brands.
  • Point at the TV: Make sure you're pointing the remote at the TV's sensor, not the DVD player's, when using these buttons.

• Problem: Problems with DVD Menus

  • Try a Different DVD: Some DVDs have complicated menus. Try a different disc to see if the problem is with the DVD itself.
  • Point Carefully: Make sure you're pointing the remote directly at the DVD player.

• Problem: Audio/Subtitle Problems

  • Check the DVD: Not all DVDs have multiple audio tracks or subtitles.
  • DVD Player Settings: There might be settings on your DVD player itself that control audio and subtitles. Consult your DVD player's manual for more information.

4. Cleaning and Caring for Your Remote

• Keep it Clean: Wipe the remote regularly with a soft, slightly damp cloth.
• Don't Use Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using cleaning sprays, solvents, or anything abrasive. A little bit of mild dish soap and water is okay, but make sure the cloth is only slightly damp, not wet.
• Clean Between Buttons: Use a cotton swab (like a Q-tip) lightly dampened with rubbing alcohol to clean between the buttons. Be careful not to get any liquid inside the remote.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Q: Can I use this remote with my [Brand] TV?

  • A: The RMT-D197A is designed primarily for Sony DVD players. The TV buttons (volume, input) might work with some Sony TVs, but compatibility with other brands is not guaranteed.

• Q: Can I program this remote to control other devices?

  • A: No, this remote is not a universal remote and cannot be programmed to control other devices like cable boxes or soundbars.

• Q: My remote stopped working after I dropped it. What should I do?

  • A: Dropping a remote can damage the internal components. Check the batteries first, but if it's still not working, you may need to replace the remote.

• Q: How long should the battery last?

  • A: This depends on the battery brand and amount of usage. Usually, the battery should last from 6 months to 1 year.

6. Important Safety Information

• Battery Safety:
  • Do not mix old and new batteries.
  • Do not mix different types of batteries (e.g., alkaline and rechargeable).
  • Remove the batteries if you won't be using the remote for a long time.
  • Dispose of batteries properly according to local regulations.
• Do not expose the remote to extreme temperatures or humidity.
• Do not attempt to disassemble the remote (except for changing the batteries).
• Dispose of this product and the batteries correctly, for recycling.

This manual provides a thorough guide to using the Sony RMT-D197A DVD remote control. If you have any problems that aren't covered here, you may need to consult the manual for your specific DVD player model or contact Sony customer support.

Check out our other Sony Remote Control User Manuals and Code Lists