SnapStream FireFly: Conclusion

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SnapStream FireFly
Version 1.2.1 (Build 916)

Conclusion
July 15, 2006

Introduction • A Closer Look • Installing The FireFly • Beyond Media
Specifications • Conclusion

Pros

FireFly PC Remote uses RF Technology for long range commands which can transmit through walls
Comfortable remote feels good in the hands but is much lighter than one would expect
Quick response from remote to computer due to RF design
Wide selection of applications (80+) maing the FireFly easy to integrate into your existing media system
Mouse emulator operates fairly quick and while not replacing your mouse entirely, it can function decently
Remote range up to 60ft (possibly more)

Cons

None observed

Suggestions

Backlit keys
IR learning capability
LCD screen
Li-Ion rechargeable battery and base charging station

This review certainly isn't the first as the FireFly was introduced in 2004. However, there have been several creative and knowledgable users of the FireFly which have made it even more versatile. I recommend checking out the SnapStream FireFly forums. There you will find a really close community helping each other maximize the best of the FireFly. The FireFly forums have an extensive collection of plug-ins which are quite unique and reflect the dedication of some very creative programmers and engineers.

The SnapStream FireFly is pretty slick device which behaves better than most media remotes on the market. The major reason for this is SnapStream's wise idea to use Radio Frequency Technology to transmit and receive the commands of the remote. I can say for sure the remote's commands go through walls. While being outside my home I closed the front door and pointed the remote forward, which was just the opposite direction of where the RF receiver was. In a few moments, I could hear music playing, informing me the range was quite good. I found if you don't have many walls or obstacles in the way of your RF receiver unit and if the unit is placed away from the computer, your range dramatically increases. In my particular case, I got about 58ft with no apparent delay of transmission. The 30ft rating is the bare minimum and if you're getting less range than this, then you probably have a lot of RF interference around your computer system where the RF receiver is.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

If you have yourself a nice LCD monitor which is going to double as your television and movie watching screen, a FireFly remote should be in your future. You will probably notice less time at the computer itself and instead, more time on your favorite couch.

Some of the suggestions I have for a more powerful FireFly (i.e., FireFly Pro) are backlit keys, LCD screen, rechargeable Lithium Ion, and IR learning capabilities. Include these four features, sell the remote for $149.99, for a new flagship version of the FireFly and it would be a product which might possibly be the only remote found in the home.

SnapStream has a huge collection of applications which are compatible with Beyond Media such as WinDVD, Ulead DVD, PowerDVD, RealPlayer, Windows Media Player, BEO Player, AX Player, ACDSee, Ulead Photo Explorer and much more.

Even without owning an LCD monitor, if your media center is hooked up to your television and movies are watched through the computer to the television, the FireFly is also a good alternative to being at the computer and pressing keyboard buttons.

At a price of $49.99, the SnapStream FireFly is quite affordable for anyone and I highly recommend it for those who are seeking to find a product which will free them from their computer chair and get them into their living room couch.