Loss of functionality with Genie RC73B remote

The only difference between the 2 is that RC73B has a back lighted key pad.  Sounds like the buttons are not programed.

Well I went through the standard programming protocol and the remote accepted all the client codes. Did it several times. Also tried resetting the receiver but no joy.

Hi, @Heimhenge. Thanks for your input @shannon02. The Genie remote is programmed to control DIRECTV receivers, Genie Minis, TVs, and A/V receivers (volume only). Please visit https://www.directv.com/support/article/000092831 for more helpful tips. Maria, DIRECTV Community Specialist

Only the TVs need to be programed into the remotes.

OK, so I went to that troubleshooting page linked by DirecTV Help. Saw that I'd already done most of it. Reset the receiver via the red button rather than the remote. Reset the remote to factory settings, re-paired it with the receiver for RF, reprogrammed my TV and Audio to be clients. Still have the original ON/OFF problem originally described.

So according to that troubleshooting page my next step is "return the remote." I bought it on Amazon, and I know they sometimes carry 3rd party merch, so should I trust them or order a replacement from DirecTV?

Thanks for giving it a try, @Heimhenge. Genie Remotes work best with Genie receivers. To program a Genie Remote to an HR54-500 model receiver, it will not work in RF mode. However, if the remote is in IR mode, then it will work. IR needs a clear line of sight. Visit How to program your DIRECTV remote control | DIRECTV Support to learn more about how to program a Genie remote.

I switched it to IR mode and I still get the original error. Plus the added inconvenience of having to point the remote over my head at the receiver. And FYI, I had an RC73 remote that behaved just fine. It wasn't till I switched the RC73B that the issue occurred. So it can't be true that "Genie remotes will not work with an HR54-500 receiver." Unless the backlit RC73B has different programming, which member Shannon02 says isn't the case.

We apologize for the inconvenience, @Heimhenge. It sounds like you need more than basic troubleshooting. Let's work together on this. We'll send you a DM, so we can assist you in fixing this issue and possibly process a remote replacement if necessary. 

Does the remote control the volume of the TV correctly?

The volume of the TV is controlled by the Pioneer audio client. And the Genie remote controls the volume and mute perfectly. But I have to point the remote over my head backwards because the Pioneer sits on a shelf behind me.

Here's what may be the problem, it fits the data you have provided.

Your remote is not programmed for your TV.

When you press on using the DTV remote, you turn the DTV equipment on, but the TV is turned on by CEC.... from the DTV unit to your TV.

Likewise off is by the DTV equipment via CEC to your TV.

This theory is supported by the DTV system is saying "not supported".

What do you mean by "CEC"?

We can answer that, @Heimhenge. The CEC feature allows you to send volume control over HDMI - Consumer Electronics Control (CEC) or disable Volume Control over IR. This is off by default (IR mode is on by default) and you need to press OK to toggle on/off.

Might also have to turn off at the TV...

Rowena, the TV is connected via component cables, not HDMI, so CEC is not an option. At present, we are keeping the TV remote out for the TV ON/OFF function. More clutter on the coffee table, but at least it works. Might have to look for a truly "universal" remote with back-lighting. Anyone here know of a good choice that easy to program and will handle the HR54-500?