The buttons on Zenith’s original ‘clicker’ remote were a mechanical marvel

In 1950, Zenith Radio Corporation released the world’s first television remote control, christening it “the Lazy Bones.” In that same year, Zenith unveiled its first commercially successful remote control, the Zenith Space Command. It was groundbreaking for a few reasons—mainly, its convenience for couch potatoes, but also because of its unique mechanical technology.

Rather than using digital or infrared technology like modern TV remotes, the Zenith Space Command was controlled by a series of buttons. These buttons were a mechanical marvel; they used metal strips and copper strips to detect when the button was pushed, and then transmitted a signal to the TV. The design of the remote wasn’t perfect, but it worked well enough to gain the affectionate moniker “the clicker” from early adopters who marvelled at the technology.

The clicker was a testament to Zenith’s commitment to creating useful and effective products. While its contemporaries were focused on bulky television sets with poor reception, the Zenith Space Command was designed to let viewers watch their favourite shows from the comfort of their homes. This was a significant achievement in a pre-cable television world. The clicker was both affordable and intuitive; it was an ideal way for viewers to switch channels and adjust volume without leaving the couch.

The clicker was a tremendous success for Zenith. It was the first such remote control that gained wide-scale usage and, subsequently, long-term business for the company. Zenith had bet big on the technology and that bet paid off. The clicker was an important part of the home entertainment experience, and its legacy continues today. In the spirit of the clicker, single-strip mechanical buttons can still be found on some TVs and remote controls.

In summary, the buttons on Zenith’s original “clicker” remote are an incredible example of how far technology has come. The clicker was one of the first major applications of mechanical technology to a consumer device, and it paved the way for more advanced remotes and better home entertainment experiences. It’s a testament to Zenith’s ingenuity and commitment to making the world a little more convenient.