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All about Samsung Anynet (Plus Troubleshooting Tips)

All about Samsung Anynet+ (Plus Troubleshooting Tips)

Napoleon Bonaparte is regarded as a war genius for his strategic way of utilizing resources, units, and even enemies. With Anynet+, you too can put your personal strategic touch on operating multiple devices connected to your Samsung TV.

Controlling multiple devices with one remote makes Anynet+ so convenient. Turn your Samsung TV’s remote into a master remote for all your HDMI-connected devices; you might not even need the infrared controller. 

This guide will thoroughly discuss the Samsung Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC) feature and its functions. Plus, we’ll show you how you can make the most of it to up your viewing experience to a whole new level. 

This guide will thoroughly discuss the Samsung Anynet (HDMI-CEC) feature and its functions

What is Samsung Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC)?

Anynet+ is the name trademarked by Samsung for the HDMI Consumer Electronics Control (CEC) feature used in some of their TV models.

Only Samsung TV models manufactured starting in 2009 have Anynet+-enabled HDMI ports. In short, you won’t find the Anynet+ feature in other TV brands as the name is exclusive to Samsung. 

Other top brands may have the same feature that takes better control of HDMI-connected devices under a different name.

What is HDMI-CEC?

The HDMI-CEC feature allows two devices connected via an HDMI connection to interact with each other. When used, the HDMI-CEC feature will give one device partial control over the other and vice versa.

This feature offers convenience, allowing you to operate and control multiple devices using a single remote control. Unfortunately, while HDMI-CEC is a common feature in most HDMI devices, it isn’t always included.

The HDMI-CEC feature has different control options and functions, making using HDMI devices more convenient than ever. A rundown of some of the most amazing control types and functions of HDMI-CEC is listed below.

HDMI-CEC Control TypeFunction
One-Touch PlayWith a single touch of a button, One-Touch Play allows your external input device you’re using to change the input selection to display on TVOnce you turn on PlayStation 4 with DualShock controller, your Samsung TV will automatically switch to its HDMI signal.
System StandbySystem Standby lets you control multiple devices by pressing a single button to put all HDMI-connected devices into standby mode.
Preset TransferThis helps you save time from manually tuning a new TV unit.Automatically transfers a tuner channel setup from one TV to another
One Touch RecordOne Touch Record allows you to record whatever is shown on the display screen of your TV with a single push of a button
Timer ProgrammingAllows you to use the built-in Electronic Program Guide (EPG) on your TV to synchronize the record timer on your recording devices
System InformationGives you access to the bus address and settings configuration of all HDMI-connected devices.
Deck ControlLets you use the play, rewind, pause, and other commands without controlling the playback device itself.Gives you the ability to control and operate any of your Samsung TV’s connected playback devices.
Tuner ControlGives two devices connected via HDMI connection tuner control over one another.
Device Menu ControlLets you access and operate the control menu of connected HDMI devices.
Routing ControlResponsible for directing connected HDMI devices to switch their signal sources.
Remote Control Pass ThroughAllows you to operate all of your HDMI-connected devices using one remote control.
Device OSD Name TransferDisplays the name of your HDMI devices on the on-screen display of your TV.
System Audio ControlAllows you to adjust the volume of any external audio device using any of your HDMI device’s remotes that have volume control buttons.

What is Anynet+ used for?

Anynet+ is a convenient tool that allows your Samsung TV to communicate with the connected external input device and vice versa.  It lets users control several gadgets using the Samsung TV remote.

Once the external input device is connected to your Samsung TV through an Anynet+ HDMI-CEC connection, you can access its menu using your TV remote control. 

From there, you can change the volume of audio devices such as speakers and soundbars – but that’s just for starters.  You can even use your HDMI-CEC to power off your Chromecast by voice. 

You can’t just use any HDMI-ready devices to make the most of Anynet, and you can’t just use any cable. 

NOTICE: Only external input devices with HDMI-CEC capabilities can use the Anynet+ feature with a Samsung TV. Also, a cable with Anynet+ HDMI-CEC support is needed to connect the external input device to your TV.

Some of these HDMI devices that can use Anynet+ include the following: 

  • Audio-video players
  • DVD players
  • Blu-ray players
  • VCRs (Video Cassette Recorders)
  • Music players
  • PlayStation
  • Some cameras
  • Soundbars
The HDMI-CEC feature has different control options and functions, making using HDMI devices more convenient than ever. A rundown of some of the most amazing co

When should you use Anynet+?

Anynet+ is a feature that adds convenience when used properly. To maximize its capability, it is best to use it when dealing with a lot of HDMI devices, such as in the case of a home theater.

On the other hand, not knowing when to use Anynet+ can be a hindrance. For instance, if it’s only needed to control a Bluetooth-capable soundbar, using this feature may be overkill.

Remember that If you turn off your Samsung TV while an external input device is connected, both will be turned off immediately. The same thing should happen when powering on or off your Samsung TV or the external input device. 

Here are other things you need to know when using Anynet+:

  • You cannot use the buttons of the TV to use Anynet+. You can only use the TV remote control to control Anynet+.
  • Anynet+ functions do not operate with non-Anynet+ compatible HDMI devices. 
  • Anynet+ cannot control any device that does not have the Anynet+ activated. 
  • Remote active source must be set to the TV when using the Anynet+ function. 

How do you enable the Anynet+ feature on Samsung TV?

Difficulty Very Easy ●○○○○
Number of Steps9
Time Needed25 seconds
Things NeededA HDMI cableExternal input deviceTV remote

Before enabling Anynet+ HDMI-CEC connection on your Samsung TV and an external input device, first ensure that you have all the required peripherals. Remember that the external input device has to have HDMI-CEC capabilities.

After that, you can then enable the Anynet+ feature on your Samsung TV by following the instructions below:

Step 1: Open the Samsung Smart Hub menu on your TV screen by pressing home
            on its remote control.

Step 2: Head to the system settings menu by scrolling left and opening Settings.

Step 3: Head to the general settings menu by scrolling down and selecting General.
Step 4: Head to the external devices menu by selecting External
            Device Manager
.

Step 5: Enable the Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC) feature by clicking it to turn the indicator’s color to green.
Step 6: Plug an HDMI cable with HDMI-CEC capabilities into the back panel of your
            Samsung TV.

Step 7: Plug the other end of the HDMI cable into the HDMI port of the external input
            device.
Step 8: Power on the external input device to connect it to your TV via the HDMI
            connection.
Step 9: Use the remote control of your Samsung TV to access the menu of the
            external input device and operate it.

How To Turn Off Anynet+ on Your Samsung TV

Difficulty Very Easy ●○○○○
Number of Steps5
Time Needed15 seconds

Enabling the Anynet+ HDMI-CEC feature makes using your Samsung TV more convenient in a lot of ways. But sometimes, there are situations when it’s better just to keep it disabled when it’s not in use or just when you feel like it.

Plus, Anynet+ is also a culprit of some common issues on Samsung TVs where it causes the device to turn on or off without your consent. As such, we also recommend turning it off whenever possible to prevent these issues in the future.

Also, it’s an excellent rule of thumb to disable or turn off any unused features on your Samsung TV. Fortunately, turning off Anynet+ is easy as you only need to toggle its switch on the external devices menu of your Samsung TV.

Step 1: Open the Samsung Smart Hub menu on your TV screen by pressing home
            on its remote control.

Step 2: Head to the system settings menu by scrolling left/opening Settings.

Step 3: Head to the general settings menu by scrolling down/opening General.
Step 4: Head to the external devices menu by scrolling down/opening External
            Device Manager.
Step 5: Select/click Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC) to toggle it off.


Note: You’ll know that Anynet+ is turned on if the indicator beside it is gray.

Indeed, it’s convenient to know how to deactivate Anynet+ to avoid complications. But learning how to enable the feature is a must if you have a number of HDMI-connected devices. 

How To Turn On Anynet+ on Your Samsung TV

Difficulty Very Easy ●○○○○
Number of Steps5
Time Needed15 seconds

Turning on the Anynet+ HDMI-CEC feature on your Samsung TV is as easy as turning it off. Doing so also requires you to navigate the external device menu on your Samsung TV to toggle its switch on.

This step is the first and most crucial part of enabling Anynet+ on your Samsung TV to use with any connected HDMI device. Once Anynet+ is turned on, you can operate external input devices linked to your Samsung TV.

Step 1: Open the Samsung Smart Hub menu on your TV screen by pressing home
            on its remote control.
Step 2: Head to the system settings menu by scrolling left/opening Settings.

Step 3: Head to the general settings menu by scrolling down/opening General.
Step 4: Head to the external devices menu by scrolling down/opening External
            Device Manager
.

Step 5: Select/click Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC) to toggle it on.


Note: You’ll know that Anynet+ is turned on if the indicator beside it is green.

Again, you’ll have to see the color green to know that the feature is on. Otherwise, you may have to repeat the steps to turn the feature on. 

How to Enable HDMI-CEC on Your Samsung TV’s Connected Devices

Most devices that have HDMI-CEC capabilities don’t require you to manually turn this feature on. Once they’re linked to your Samsung TV that has Anynet+ enabled via an HDMI connection, you can enjoy this feature right away. 

However, there are gaming consoles such as the PlayStation 4 and 5 where you need to enable HDMI-CEC manually.  For these devices, you need to navigate to Settings > System > Enable HDMI Device Link to enable their HDMI-CEC feature.

How to Enable HDMI-CEC on Your Samsung TV’s Connected Devices

In case you have other devices that also need to manually enable their HDMI-CEC feature, various guides on the internet can help you out. You can look up how to activate HDMI-CEC on these devices through a Google search.

If the device came with a user manual, you can also refer to that for instructions on how to activate HDMI-CEC. Chances are, there will be a section dedicated to this specific functionality.

Anynet+ and Samsung TV Troubleshooting Guide

When Anynet+ HDMI-CEC is not working on your Samsung TV, it needs some troubleshooting so you can identify the root cause of the issue and apply the appropriate solution. 

Various techniques can be used to fix this issue. We’ve listed our proven steps below, so read on!

1. Double-check if Anynet+ is enabled on your Samsung TV.

Difficulty Very Easy ●○○○○
Number of Steps5
Time Needed15 seconds
Things Needed TV remote

As mentioned earlier, making sure that Anynet+ HDMI-CEC is turned on should be your first and most crucial step before using this feature. After all, no feature works when they’re disabled.

If you find that Anynet+ is turned off on your Samsung TV’s external devices menu, simply turn it back on to continue. However, if it’s already turned on and it’s still working, we suggest moving on to the next troubleshooting trick.

Step 1: Open the Samsung Smart Hub menu on your TV screen by pressing home
            on its remote control.

Step 2: Head to the system settings menu by scrolling left/opening Settings.

Step 3: Head to the general settings menu by scrolling down/opening General.
Step 4: Head to the external devices menu by scrolling down/opening External
            Device Manager
.

Step 5: Check if Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC) is on.



Note: Turn Anynet+ on if it’s still turned off.

2. Double-check if your external input device supports HDMI-CEC.

Not all HDMI devices have HDMI-CEC support so it’s important to make sure your external input device supports this feature to determine if it will work. After all, no amount of troubleshooting will miraculously give your device HDMI-CEC capabilities.

We recommend checking online to see if its listed specifications mention having HDMI-CEC support. If the device was bought from a reputable brand, you can contact their customer support channels and ask if it supports the HDMI-CEC feature.

Double-check if your external input device supports HDMI-CEC

3. Use a cable that supports HDMI-CEC.

Like HDMI devices, not all HDMI cables support the HDMI-CEC functionality. Even with Anynet+ enabled on your Samsung TV and a device that supports HDMI-CEC, you won’t be able to use this feature without the correct HDMI cable.

If you have multiple HDMI cables lying around, we suggest trying all of them until you find one that works with Anynet+. Otherwise, you might need a new HDMI cable that supports the HDMI-CEC feature.

You might be wondering why you can’t use just any HDMI cable. That’s because HDMI-CEC cables are not your run-of-the-mill ordinary cable. 

CEC which stands for Consumer Electronics Control has a great vision of controlling all consumer electronics in the living room. It’s a standard that would have worked well; unfortunately, this standard was not immediately installed on all HDMI cables. 

Simply put, non-CEC HDMI cables would not be able to communicate with your Anynet+ controls as they do not have the same standard. Indeed, you need to ensure the HDMI cable bears the standard before buying it. 

Use a cable that supports HDMI-CEC.

4. Reseat the HDMI cable on the external input device and Samsung TV.

A common issue with HDMI connections is loose cables and dusty ports, which messes with the data transmission. You need to ensure that your HDMI cable is a snug fit on the ports of your Samsung TV and external input device.

We also recommend blowing air into both devices’ HDMI ports to dislodge any dust particles sitting inside that can block the connection. You can also check your HDMI cable for signs of wear and tear or a broken connector so you can replace it if needed.

Reseat the HDMI cable on the external input device and Samsung TV.
Image source: Wikipedia

5. Double-check if HDMI-CEC is enabled on your external input device.

Since some external input devices require you to enable their HDMI-CEC functionality manually, you need to ensure your device works the same. Once you find out if it needs manual activation, you can enable the feature on said device.

Depending on your external input device, the activation process may vary. You can check its user manual for the instructions for enabling HDMI-CEC or look it up online.

A concrete example here is Google Chromecast, one of the most popular HDMI devices on the planet. By default, HDMI-CEC has been enabled on your Chromecast so you should not worry a thing about it. 

The same holds true for soundbars; more often than not, HDMI-CEC is enabled on these popular TV speakers. But it may be a different story altogether for game consoles which usually are disabled by default.

FAQs about Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC)

What is the HDMI-CEC feature called on other brands?

The name of HDMI-CEC varies between brands that use this feature. Below is what other known brands call the HDMI-CEC feature on their products.

  • Aquos Link – Sharp
  • BRAVIA Sync – Sony
  • CE-Link – Toshiba
  • EasyLink – Philips
  • EZ-Sync – Panasonic
  • Kuro Link – Pioneer
  • RIHD – Onkyo
  • Simplink – LG

What alternative means can I use instead of HDMI-CEC?

Using a universal remote is another way to control and operate multiple devices without the HDMI-CEC feature. It’s not as convenient as HDMI-CEC but using a universal remote helps reduce the number of remote controls you need to pay attention to.

Can I use Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC) even with a universal remote?

You can’t use Anynet+ on an external device that has also been set up to use a universal remote. There will be issues with the connection if you do that. 

The universal remote control will override the Anynet+ feature on your Samsung TV. It will be the only device capable of controlling the external device so using a universal remote may not be the best idea if you want to max on Anynet+.

Why is HDMI-CEC not available on my laptop?

HDMI-CEC isn’t available on laptops and other devices that aren’t remote control-operated. This feature is also unnecessary since laptops can naturally control HDMI devices connected to them from the get-go.


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