The Logitech Harmony Hub is a powerful tool for controlling your home entertainment system, allowing you to streamline your viewing experience and simplify your setup. But what if you have multiple rooms or areas in your home that you’d like to control separately? Can you have two Harmony Hubs? In this article, we’ll explore the possibilities and limitations of using multiple Harmony Hubs, and provide guidance on how to set them up and use them effectively.
Understanding the Harmony Hub
Before we dive into the question of whether you can have two Harmony Hubs, let’s take a brief look at what the Harmony Hub is and how it works. The Harmony Hub is a small device that connects to your home network and allows you to control your entertainment devices using a smartphone app or a remote control. It uses infrared (IR) and Bluetooth technology to communicate with your devices, and can be programmed to perform complex tasks and macros.
The Harmony Hub is designed to be a central hub for your home entertainment system, allowing you to control multiple devices with a single interface. It’s compatible with a wide range of devices, including TVs, soundbars, Blu-ray players, and gaming consoles.
Why You Might Want Two Harmony Hubs
There are several scenarios in which you might want to use two Harmony Hubs:
- Multi-room setup: If you have multiple rooms in your home that you’d like to control separately, you might want to use a separate Harmony Hub for each room. This would allow you to control the devices in each room independently, without having to worry about interference or conflicts between the two systems.
- Large home: If you have a large home with many devices to control, you might want to use multiple Harmony Hubs to simplify your setup and reduce the complexity of your system.
- Separate systems: If you have separate home entertainment systems in different parts of your home (for example, a home theater in your living room and a separate system in your bedroom), you might want to use a separate Harmony Hub for each system.
Can You Have Two Harmony Hubs?
The short answer is yes, you can have two Harmony Hubs. However, there are some limitations and considerations to keep in mind.
- Separate networks: Each Harmony Hub must be connected to a separate network. This means that you’ll need to have two separate routers or networks in your home, one for each Harmony Hub.
- Separate devices: Each Harmony Hub can only control devices that are connected to its own network. This means that you’ll need to make sure that the devices you want to control are connected to the correct network.
- No interference: Because the Harmony Hub uses IR and Bluetooth technology, there’s a risk of interference between the two systems. To minimize this risk, you’ll want to make sure that the two Harmony Hubs are located in separate areas of your home, and that you’re not using the same devices on both systems.
Setting Up Two Harmony Hubs
If you’ve decided that you want to use two Harmony Hubs, here’s a step-by-step guide to setting them up:
- Connect the first Harmony Hub: Connect the first Harmony Hub to your network and set it up using the Harmony app. Make sure that all of the devices you want to control are connected to the same network.
- Connect the second Harmony Hub: Connect the second Harmony Hub to a separate network and set it up using the Harmony app. Again, make sure that all of the devices you want to control are connected to the same network.
- Configure the Harmony app: Open the Harmony app and configure it to work with both Harmony Hubs. You’ll need to create separate accounts for each Harmony Hub, and configure the app to recognize both systems.
- Test the systems: Test both systems to make sure that they’re working correctly and that there’s no interference between them.
Tips for Using Two Harmony Hubs
Here are a few tips for using two Harmony Hubs effectively:
- Use separate remotes: Use separate remotes for each Harmony Hub to avoid confusion and interference.
- Label the devices: Label the devices connected to each Harmony Hub to avoid confusion and make it easier to identify which devices are connected to which system.
- Use the Harmony app: Use the Harmony app to control both systems and simplify your setup.
Alternatives to Using Two Harmony Hubs
If you’re not sure whether using two Harmony Hubs is the right solution for you, there are a few alternatives to consider:
- Harmony Elite: The Harmony Elite is a more advanced version of the Harmony Hub that allows you to control up to 15 devices and create complex macros. It’s a good option if you have a large home or a complex setup.
- Harmony Pro: The Harmony Pro is a professional-grade version of the Harmony Hub that allows you to control up to 50 devices and create complex macros. It’s a good option if you have a very large home or a commercial setup.
- Other universal remotes: There are many other universal remotes available that can control multiple devices and simplify your setup. Some popular options include the Philips Pronto and the Universal Remote Control MX-980.
Conclusion
Using two Harmony Hubs can be a great way to simplify your home entertainment setup and control multiple devices in different rooms or areas of your home. However, there are some limitations and considerations to keep in mind, including the need for separate networks and devices, and the risk of interference between the two systems. By following the steps outlined in this article and using the tips and tricks provided, you can set up and use two Harmony Hubs effectively and enjoy a more streamlined and simplified viewing experience.
| Harmony Hub Model | Number of Devices Supported | Network Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Harmony Hub | Up to 8 devices | Single network |
| Harmony Elite | Up to 15 devices | Single network |
| Harmony Pro | Up to 50 devices | Single network |
Note: The information in this table is subject to change and may not be up-to-date. It’s always a good idea to check the manufacturer’s website for the latest information on their products.
Can I use two Harmony Hubs in the same room?
You can use two Harmony Hubs in the same room, but it’s essential to consider the potential for interference between the two devices. Harmony Hubs use infrared (IR) and radio frequency (RF) signals to communicate with your devices, and having two hubs in close proximity may cause signal conflicts.
To minimize potential issues, ensure that the two Harmony Hubs are placed at a reasonable distance from each other, ideally at least 3-4 feet apart. You can also try positioning them in a way that reduces the likelihood of signal overlap. However, if you experience any issues with device control or hub connectivity, you may need to consider relocating one of the hubs or using a different setup.
What are the benefits of using two Harmony Hubs?
Using two Harmony Hubs can provide several benefits, including expanded device control and increased flexibility. With two hubs, you can control a larger number of devices, making it ideal for complex home theater setups or whole-home automation systems. Additionally, having two hubs allows you to create separate device groups or activities, making it easier to manage your devices and customize your experience.
Another benefit of using two Harmony Hubs is that you can use them to control devices in different rooms or areas of your home. For example, you can use one hub to control your living room TV and another hub to control your bedroom TV. This allows you to create a more seamless and integrated experience across your entire home.
Can I use two Harmony Hubs with the same Harmony remote?
Yes, you can use two Harmony Hubs with the same Harmony remote, but you’ll need to ensure that the remote is paired with both hubs. To do this, you’ll need to follow the pairing process for each hub, which typically involves putting the remote into pairing mode and then selecting the hub you want to pair it with.
Once you’ve paired the remote with both hubs, you can use it to control devices connected to either hub. However, keep in mind that you may need to switch between hubs or device groups using the remote’s menu system. This can be a bit cumbersome, so it’s essential to consider your specific needs and setup before using two hubs with the same remote.
How do I set up two Harmony Hubs?
Setting up two Harmony Hubs is similar to setting up a single hub, but you’ll need to follow a few additional steps. First, you’ll need to set up each hub individually, following the standard setup process for your Harmony remote and hub. This typically involves connecting the hub to your network, pairing the remote with the hub, and configuring your devices.
Once you’ve set up both hubs, you can use the Harmony software or app to configure your device groups and activities. You may need to create separate device groups or activities for each hub, depending on your specific setup and needs. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and online support resources for specific guidance on setting up two Harmony Hubs.
Can I use two Harmony Hubs with different Harmony remotes?
Yes, you can use two Harmony Hubs with different Harmony remotes. In fact, this is often the recommended approach, as it allows you to create separate control systems for each hub. To set this up, you’ll need to pair each remote with its corresponding hub, following the standard pairing process.
Using different remotes for each hub can help simplify your setup and reduce the risk of signal conflicts or device control issues. However, keep in mind that you’ll need to ensure that each remote is configured correctly and that you have a clear understanding of which remote controls which devices.
What are the potential drawbacks of using two Harmony Hubs?
One potential drawback of using two Harmony Hubs is the increased complexity of your setup. With two hubs, you’ll need to manage multiple device groups, activities, and remotes, which can be overwhelming for some users. Additionally, you may experience signal conflicts or device control issues if the hubs are not set up correctly.
Another potential drawback is the increased cost of using two Harmony Hubs. Depending on the specific models and features you choose, using two hubs can be more expensive than using a single hub. However, for users with complex home theater setups or whole-home automation systems, the benefits of using two hubs may outweigh the additional cost.
Can I use two Harmony Hubs with other smart home devices?
Yes, you can use two Harmony Hubs with other smart home devices, including popular platforms like Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit. Harmony Hubs are designed to integrate with a wide range of smart home devices and systems, making it easy to create a seamless and integrated experience.
To use two Harmony Hubs with other smart home devices, you’ll need to ensure that the hubs are connected to your network and configured correctly. You may also need to use the Harmony software or app to configure your device groups and activities, and to integrate your hubs with other smart home devices. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and online support resources for specific guidance on integrating your Harmony Hubs with other smart home devices.