Choosing a Presentation Remote

Choosing the Correct Wireless Presentation Remote.

Choosing a wireless remote which can effectively emulate the functions of a computer mouse and manipulate extensive Powerpoint presentations can be confusing at best. I have highlighted the most common remote features to better guide you in your quest for a remote.

Cursor Control
Some of the basic presentation remote features will be mouse emulation via 360 degree motion pad, trackball or small joystick. With a select few presentation remotes, motion awareness technology will move the curser in relation to how you wave the presenter in the air.

Programmable Hotkeys
Hotkeys are a handy feature available on some presentation remotes such as the Interlink Electronics Global Presenter Remote. Having a hotkey allows the user to predetermine a specific function or application to launch when pressed. This can be a real time saver in the board room.

Wireless Technology
Some considerations should be made in regards to the wireless technology used with today's wireless presentation remotes. The two wireless technologies used are IR and RF (Bluetooth does not have enough range to be used here). IR is infrared, which must have a line of site with the receiver mounted to the PC host. IR is radio wave technology, which is not dependent of line of site. Both methods have their perks and downsides.

Wireless Pitfalls:

  • IR works with line of site only. Any item placed in line of sight will interrupt signal.
  • IR has a limited range
  • RF can have interference issues in some locations dependent upon other wireless devices.
  • RF remotes are higher priced than IR units.

Platform Compatibility
Most presentation PC remotes will only work with a PC, a very select few remotes will function with both PC and Mac such as the Interlink RemotePoint Navigator. The Interlink RemotePoint remote is fully compatible with Powerpoint and Apple Keynote presentation software. Do the math, if you work with both PC and Mac systems one remote that works on both machines is a no-brainer.

Presentation Pointers
Finally there is the laser pointer feature. This is widely supported in most of the remotes, but is blindly overlook in some economy as well as pricier models, don't forget to check the features and specifications of each remote that you look at to see if this feature is included. Assume that your laser will be red, although some companies have been known to use green lasers which show up better on some presentation screens.

Written by Ken Walker, Sr. Product Manager for PcPowerZone 1/23/2008