Swift IR Sensor / Remote Tester
Now-a-days almost all electrical and electronic gadgets are opereated by IR remotes, which uses 38 KHz carrier waves to transmit the code using IR (InfraRed) waves, which is invisible to naked eye. The Swift IR Tester project is useful to test your IR remote quickly and you may test the IR sensor before soldering to the PCB of your new project. This Swift IR Tester is also useful to study the code generated by the IR remote.
Many types of IR sensor are available in the market with various pin outs. Four types of IR sensors with their pin outs are shown here as quick reference. All the four types of IR sensors may be tested in our circuit, with proper insertion of pins in to the berg strip provided for testing. (Courtesy:Vishay)
The maximum Power supply for almost all TSOP sensors are 5.5VDC with a series resistance and decoupling capacitor near the sensor to filter the noise signals. The TSOP package contains a regular IR sensor with 38 KHz (some models vary the frequency) filter circuit. The IR remotes send IR light with 38 KHz as carrier waves. A code is sent by switching ON/OFF the 38 KHz frequency for particular time. The IR code receiver de-codes the ON/OFF signal through the IR sensor and send the code for controlling the gadget.
The circuit used for Testing IR sensor and IR remote is simple and full circuit diagram is shown here.
For comfortable use of the circuit, place the berg strip (with holes) on one side of the PCB and USB plug on the other side. The unused (NC) holes in the berg strip may be closed / blocked for easy identifacation of pins and fool-proof insertion of the IR sensor. Better to mark Vs (red colour) and GND ( blue/black colour) connections near to berg strip.
Once the circuit is made on a small PCB, insert an IR sensor, in such a way that, the pin outs should match the markings on the PCB (Vs, GND and OUT). Connect shorting jumper J1 in position. Then, switch ON the power from 9V battery else insert the circuit in any USB port, normally available with power banks, personal computers, laptops etc.
Now, select any IR remote available in your home and press any button on the remote. The Red LED blinks in response to the IR remote code. You may quickly check any IR remote or IR sensor with this circuit. You may also use this circuit to study the code received from the IR remote using 3 pins 5V, GND and OUT.
That's ALL. ENJOY