A similar layout to my second entry but with a different button layout.

An entry in the Universal Remote Control Inc. MX-3000 design contest.

Second Place Winner!
Here's my entry for the MX-3000 design contest. I tried to take advantage of the animation capabilities of the remote while drawing off of the unique industrial, mechanical feel I originated in my PCF design "Perforated Metal." I wanted to make it feel as if the interface was composed of materials that would actually be used to create an RC device. Almost all of the buttons have unique static and selected states. I think there is a sense of tangible space in my design that sets it apart without making it too flashy and a directness in design which makes it clear and easy to use. I hope you enjoy using the interface as much as I did creating it.

This is my design for the MX-3000. The curtains opening are the most unique part of this program, as they open the system turns on leading to the main page.

This is a system setup for all Pioneer Elite gear with a Scientific Atlantic HD/PVR. The backgrounds I have made are really nice to look at. I have a hidden button on the main page for remote credits. All buttons have been custom made specifically for this template. Lot of love went into this one.

This is a complete system file designed around the Anthem Statement Equipment. Very simple layout with great contrast.

I wanted to design an interface that had the look and feel of an Apple OS. It needed to be clean, sophisticated, and most of all easy for the end user.

It is an activity based remote so the user will be "greeted" and the system will turn on with a macro. Then they will choose a source to watch, listen to, or control. All which will be done with a macro to change the Display and AV Receiver to the right input.

What makes my design unique is over all look of the remote. The blue and silver colors of the GUI make great contrast with the physical look of the remote, and are aesthetically pleasing to the eye. The use of .PNG graphics is a great improvement on the original versions of URC software, and I utilized the alpha transparent graphics throughout the whole GUI. The ability to have smooth rounded edges is great and really looks slick when downloaded to the remote. I also included a camera device. In the case of using a Quad you can take a digital picture of what the camera is seeing, and have a macro set that picture up on the display in the room. It makes this easy for the end user and a good alternative to an expensive video capable touchscreen. Also included are some... (more)

Features I believe to be unique are:

• Integration to my X10 system, being able to control any light in my house including my sprinkler system via the MX3000
• By using variables it is not necessary to have discreet power codes, the MX3000 knows the power state of each device. It is not necessary to turn on all components and the MX3000 knows which units to turn off.
• The System Lock (code is 4294) which inhibits unauthorized use of the MX3000
• The Admin Lock (code is 3849) which keeps the non-daily used functions on the remote but safely protected

The system controls equipment in 3 different locations in 3 different viewing locations.

A simplefied, original user interface that can be expanded upon. Note that older MX-3000s might have a hard time with the PNG files used in this template.

With the exception of the Main Page buttons, the buttons are all original. I use alot of variables to show buttons green or red for on or off. Also used variables to "know" device power states.