For the first question, this was a design feature! The power button on the remote is just a power off button. To turn it on you have to hit one of the video or audio source buttons at the bottom: VIDEO1 - VIDEO5, CD, DVD, PHONO, 7.1 DIRECT, etc., usually which ever one you are going to select first anyway.

Sorry I can't help with the UVerse cable box. Mine works with the Motorola-built COMCAST box. You might try sending a message to Outlaw support.