A control system with a simplified control device for direct selection of electronic media operations, and for programmed navigation through the content without using dedicated navigation functions of a media player. The simplified control device includes a limited number of keys, comprising direct-select keys and navigation keys, which transmit programmable number key signals rather than dedicated key signals. Direct-select keys are visually associated with icons displayed by the medial player by shape, color, and/or the like. The icons are dynamically associated with portions of content and/or software instructions stored on a medium, such as a DVD. Activating a direct-select key cause the media player to access the associated content and/or instructions. The simplified remote control device also includes navigation keys associated with software instructions stored on the DVD, so that navigation operations are consistent for any media player that reads from the DVD. Dedicated keys can also be included. |