TV-B-Gone
I heard about TV-B-Gone on the radio yesterday. It's a simple device that has one button which, when pressed, emits the power codes for just about every remote controllable TV out there. The intent is to be able to turn off any TV, although it also turns on any TV that's off. It's so popular that the site has been overloaded. Wired Magazine and AP (via Yahoo News) both have interesting articles about it.
Those with evil minds have contemplated spending an otherwise boring afternoon at Circuit City, turning off the TVs when the mood strikes.
For $14.99, I'm not sure I'd join in the fun, but it'd certainly be an interesting toy.
What: TV-B-Gone™ universal remote controls, is an amazing small handheld new gadget that has the power to turn off virtually any television set.
How: TV-B-Gone™ universal remote controls generates the 'off' power codes for every model of US, Asian and European televisions. Hangs discreetly on a keychain.
Why: Because a tv that is powered on is like second-hand smoke. It fills the room with its sights and sounds, impinging on everyone in the room. If someone were smoking a cigar in a public place, you would probably leave or ask them to extinguish it. With TV-B-Gone™, you have the power to turn any tv off, with others' approval.
Who: TV-B-Gone™ universal remote controls is produced by Cornfield Electronics, Inc., a San Francisco technology firm. 'I consider TV-B-Gone a personal safety device,' says inventor Mitch Altman.
Can TV-B-Gone hurt my TV? TV-B-Gone™ is just a remote control. It works on the same principle as your tv's remote control. It cannot hurt your tv or anyone else's tv.
What's different about TV-B-GoneTM? Other universal remotes turn off the television, but they can cost up to $250 because they also turn on the television and adjust its settings. TV-B-Gone™ costs only $14.99 and only provides the most important remote control function: the OFF switch.
How can I get one? TV-B-Gone™ is available by mail order on the internet at www.TVBGone.com and in selected retail locations stores.
Cornfield Electronics, Inc., based in San Francisco, is dedicated to the use of technology for something useful. TV-B-Gone™ is our first product and is, in fact, one of the first truly useful uses of technology. We hope you will enjoy it, as well as the vast amount of energy that it opens up in your life. Mitch Altman, Inventor