IRSignale

IRSignale refer to information carried by infrared radiation, typically in the near-infrared range (about 700 to 1,000 nanometers). They are widely used in consumer electronics, especially for remote control. A typical IR signaling system consists of a transmitter that emits modulated IR light and a receiver that detects it and converts it to electrical signals. The transmission usually requires line of sight, and signals can be affected by ambient light and reflections.

Most IR remote systems modulate the carrier light at a frequency around 36–40 kHz, though other frequencies exist. The modulated beam is then pulsed to encode data. At the receiver side, a photodiode or phototransistor coupled with a demodulator detects the modulated signal and strips the carrier, yielding a digital stream that represents the data. Modern IR receiver modules include amplification, filtering, and automatic gain control.

To interpret the data, devices use defined protocols that specify timing and encoding, such as NEC, RC-5, RC-6, and Sony SIRC. These specify the bit timing, header, and various command codes. There is no universal standard; compatibility is usually limited to devices following the same protocol family.

Applications include remote controls for televisions, audio equipment, HVAC, and other consumer electronics; IR extenders and line-of-sight data links. Limitations include dependence on direct visibility, sensitivity to bright sunlight or LED lighting, limited range, and the proliferation of competing standards.