Long Range Infrared Remote

Gives apx 8-20 ft of wireless control! You can build these circuits in an afternoon or two. Keywords: Infrared, wireless, computer interfacing, remote control, MC145026, MC145027, IR module



Introduction

Updated 02/27/99 See note about the 32.7 kHz IR module

You can construct your own long range infrared (IR) wireless remote using Motorola's MC145026 emitter and MC145027 detector chips. With your remote you can control devices up to 20 feet (7 meters) away. It operates similiarly to a TV remote. You just point the emitter at the detector, push a transmit button. The detector then interprets your data signal. You can use this circuit to remotely turn on/off devices (like a motors, relays, home appliances):

You can also interface sensors (e.g. temperature, pressure) to the emitter for wirelessly data transfer).

You can also configure your emitter-detector for triggered events. For example, you can place the emitter and detector on opposite sides of a door. The emitter is configured to continously transmits IR light to the detector. When a person walks passed the door, the IR light is blocked. The event can be used to electrically trigger a bell or activate a recorded message. The emitter and detector both use a 9 V battery. You can wirewrap and/or solder the circuits in an afternoon or two with readily available parts from Jameco, Digikey or Newark. What's more exciting is that the circuit can be computer controlled. For example, you can interface the emitter or detector (or both!) to your PC (or a microcontroller like the Basic Stamp, PIC, 8051 etc.). Here are some exciting configurations:

As you can see, there are many exciting possibilities. With this motivation, the tutorial is broken down as follows: