kaukoIR

KaukoIR is an open, community-driven ecosystem for long-range infrared remote control. It provides hardware designs and software protocols intended to extend the practical range and reliability of infrared commands beyond typical consumer remotes, while aiming for compatibility with a wide range of IR devices.

The project defines layers for physical signaling, data encoding, and command handling. Physically, it recommends high-intensity infrared emitters and sensitive receivers, with a carrier near 38 kHz and configurable modulation to suit different devices. The data layer uses compact device-and-command codes with error detection and optional retries to improve robustness in bright environments.

Software implementations include transmitter firmware, a decoder for capturing codes, and libraries to integrate with home automation platforms. The protocol supports learning from existing remotes and generating universal commands, enabling interoperability where manufacturers publish their codes.

Hardware implementations typically combine a microcontroller or single-board computer, a high-power IR LED array, a photodiode or TSOP-style receiver, and simple driver circuits. Open-source reference designs and bill of materials are shared in community repositories to encourage experimentation and education.

KaukoIR has been used in hobbyist and prototyping contexts and is described as an open ecosystem prioritizing interoperability, safety, and accessibility. As with other long-range IR efforts, it emphasizes line-of-sight operation and careful power management. See also infrared remote control, IR protocol standards, open-source hardware.