Bose 3-2-1 Remote Control Manual

The Bose 3-2-1 remote control is designed to operate the Bose 3-2-1 Series II and III DVD home entertainment systems. It features primary system control, DVD playback functions, TV control capabilities (for select models), and a learning function for controlling other devices. Below are key sections for overview, setup, operation, programming, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Initial Setup & Battery Installation 3. Basic Operation 4. Specifications 5. Button Layout & Functions 6. Programming the Remote 7. Controlling Other Devices 8. Advanced Functions 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Infrared (IR) transmitter, System Power, DVD Transport Controls, Volume/Mute, Input Selection, Numeric Keypad, and Learning Capability.

FeatureDescription
System PowerTurns the Bose 3-2-1 system on/off
DVD TransportPlay, Pause, Stop, Skip, Search controls
Volume & MuteControls system volume level and mutes audio
Input SelectorSwitches between DVD, AUX, and other sources
Numeric KeypadDirect title/chapter/track access and menu navigation
TV Control ZoneButtons to control a TV (power, volume, input)
Learning FunctionCan learn commands from other remotes
Backlight (on some models)Illuminates buttons in low light
Battery CompartmentHolds two AA batteries

Initial Setup & Battery Installation

Prepare the remote for first use by installing batteries and establishing communication with the system.

  1. Open the battery compartment on the back of the remote.
  2. Insert two fresh AA batteries, observing correct polarity (+/-).
  3. Close the compartment securely.
  4. Point the remote at the Bose 3-2-1 system's IR sensor (typically on the media center).
  5. Press the SYSTEM POWER button to test operation.

WARNING! Do not mix old and new batteries or different battery types. Remove batteries if the remote will not be used for an extended period.

Basic Operation

Power on the Bose 3-2-1 system and use the remote for primary control.

  1. Turn on System: Press SYSTEM POWER. The media center display should illuminate.
  2. Select Source: Press INPUT or SOURCE to cycle through DVD, AUX, etc.
  3. Control Playback (DVD): Use PLAY, PAUSE, STOP, SKIP (>>| and |<<).
  4. Adjust Volume: Use VOLUME + and - buttons. Press MUTE to silence audio.
  5. Access Menus: Use the arrow keys and ENTER to navigate on-screen menus.

CAUTION! Ensure a clear line of sight between the remote and the system's IR sensor for reliable operation.

Specifications

Button Layout & Functions

The remote is divided into functional zones: System Control, DVD Transport, Navigation, and TV Control.

System Zone: SYSTEM POWER, INPUT/SOURCE, VOLUME +/-, MUTE.

DVD Zone: OPEN/CLOSE, PLAY, PAUSE, STOP, SKIP, SEARCH, ANGLE, SUBTITLE, AUDIO.

Navigation Zone: Arrow Keys (Up, Down, Left, Right), ENTER, MENU, RETURN/BACK, NUMERIC KEYPAD (0-9).

TV Zone (if present): TV POWER, TV VOLUME +/-, TV INPUT.

Special Buttons: SETUP (accesses system menu), LEARN (for programming).

Programming the Remote

Program the remote to control your TV or learn commands from other device remotes.

  1. Turn on the TV you wish to control.
  2. Press and hold the TV POWER button on the Bose remote for 5 seconds until the indicator light blinks.
  3. Enter the 4-digit code for your TV brand (see code list in system manual).
  4. The indicator light will blink twice if successful. Test the TV POWER button.
  5. For learning other commands (e.g., cable box), use the LEARN button and follow on-screen prompts from the Bose system.

Tip: Have the original remote for the device you want to control nearby during the learning process.

Controlling Other Devices

Once programmed, use the remote to operate your TV and potentially other components.

  1. Ensure the remote is in the correct "mode." Press the device button (e.g., TV) first.
  2. Use the TV zone buttons (POWER, VOLUME, INPUT) to control the television.
  3. To control the Bose system again, press any button in the System or DVD zones.
  4. For a learned device, you may need to assign a specific button (like AUX) to transmit learned commands.

WARNING! The learning function has limited memory. Do not attempt to learn an entire remote's command set.

Advanced Functions

Macro Functions (if supported): Program a sequence of commands to a single button. System Lock: Use parental controls via the system menu to lock certain functions, requiring a code.

Care & Maintenance

Wipe clean with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use liquids or abrasive cleaners.

CAUTION! Avoid dropping the remote. Keep away from extreme heat, cold, and moisture. Replace batteries promptly when performance weakens.

Regulatory Information

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful interference. Copyright © Bose Corporation. Bose and the Bose logo are trademarks of Bose Corporation. For support, visit www.bose.com or contact Bose Customer Service.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Remote does not workWeak/dead batteries, obstructionReplace batteries; ensure clear line of sight to system sensor.
Buttons work intermittentlyLow batteries, dirty contactsReplace batteries; clean battery contacts with dry cloth.
Cannot control TVIncorrect code, not in TV modeReprogram with correct TV code; press TV button first.
Learning function failsSource remote too far/weak, memory fullPlace remotes close together (3-6 inches); clear learned codes via system menu.
System does not respond to POWERSystem unplugged, remote not pairedCheck system power cord; re-sync remote by pointing at sensor and pressing POWER repeatedly.

Reset: Remove batteries for 60 seconds, then reinstall. This may clear learned codes and restore defaults.

Service: For issues with the Bose system itself, contact Bose Customer Support. The remote may be available as a separate accessory.

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