Beo5 & Beo6

Introduction

This is a non-definitive guide to the Bang & Olufsen Beo5 & Beo6 remote controls and made up from information I have gathered over the years of using and programming my Beo5 & Beo6 remote controls. I am not an expert but just a very enthusiastic user. I will update this as and when I discover more about programming these remotes. Please note the Configuration Tool is not available on this site.

The Beo5 and Beo6 were very customisable remote controls, mostly held back by the programming tool not being given to customers although almost all versions of the Configuration Tool (CT) have been "leaked" onto the internet. The main differences between the two remotes were the larger screen size and WiFi capability on the Beo6.

The remotes need to be programmed for your specific setup. There is a simple default configuration built in, but it no way uses the full capabilities of the remote. The remote was usually programmed by the dealers and the Configuration Tool (CT) was not usually given to the customer (unless you negotiated getting a copy with a purchase of a remote from an understanding dealer). However there are now copies of the CT "unofficially" available on the web for download. It is unlikely any dealer will be interested in programming the remotes these days. Using the CT involves a steep learning curve, but is well worth the effort and perseverance. The CT is Windows only and the Beo5 can only be programmed using a 32bit Windows OS. You can get around these limitations using a Virtual Machine (VM) and there is more about that on this site.

Both remotes can control a lot of non B&O hardware that use IR for control, without using the built in STB controller or PUC Controller on your B&O components. Unfortunately, it can be quite involved doing that if the non B&O components that you want to control are not already in the database on the version of the CT that works with your remote. I use my remotes to control lights, curtains, blinds etc by combining them with a LinTronic box or a LightManager Pro. Unfortunately neither are available to buy new any longer, although LinTronic seem to be working on a new converter. The LinTronic box was particularly useful as it allowed you to learn other remote controls and replace them with your Beo5 or Beo6 (or Beo4, Beo1 and Beo Remote One). If you are any good with electronics and programming you could run a Raspberry Pi, Arduino or similar micro computer to replace the LinTronic box or a LightManager Pro. I have dipped my toes in the Raspberry Pi "pond" but need to be better at computer programming to attain anything useful and having a fully working LinTronic box and a LightManager Pro doesn't encourage a need to experiment.

There are a lot of resources on the internet for Bang & Olufsen and I have found the BeoWorld web site one of the most useful and informative sites when looking for assistance with anything Bang & Olufsen including the Beo5 and Beo6. If you have any questions to ask regarding your Beo5 or Beo6 please ask them on that forum.

 

Please use the buttons on the screen below to navigate this site.