IR Remote Extender Circuit

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This IR remote extender can increase the range of most simple IR remotes (those operating on a 40KHz modulation) a significant distance. In use, the remote is pointed toward the detector on the circuit, and a button is pressed. The Sharp IR detector then decodes the 40KHz modulated signal into a series of pulses, which trigger a 555 timer. The 555 outputs pulses which are re-modulated and used to drive an IR LED. The circuit is excellent for use in a large room like a presentation hall where a typical IR remote is a bit weak. By extending the wires to the output LED (using shielded cable) you can control a device where line of sight isn't available (such as a wall full of TVs in another room).

Schematic

Parts

Part	Total Qty.	Description	Substitutions
R1, R6	2	10K 1/4W Resistor
R2	1	1K 1/4W Resistor
R3	1	10K Linear Pot
R4	1	2.2K 1/4W Resistor
R5	1	47 Ohm 1/4W Resistor
C1	1	0.01uF Ceramic Disc Capacitor
Q1, Q2	2	2N3904 NPN Transistor
D1	1	IR LED	Radio Shack 276 143C
U1	1	GP1U52X IR Module
U2	1	TLC555 CMOS Timer	LMC555, 7555
MISC	1	Board, Sockets For U2, Wire

Notes

Only the CMOS TLC555 timer can be used in this circuit. The original NE555 cannot operate reliably at 40KHz. Acceptable substitutions are shown in the parts list.

Almost all powerful IR LEDs can be used for D1 if the appropriate value of R5 is chosen.

To calibrate the circuit, use a frequency counter. Connect it in parallel with D1 and then ground the base of Q1. Adjust R3 for 40KHz on the counter. If a counter is not available, you will just have to point a remote at the circuit, press a button, and then adjust R3 until it works. This can take a few tries as not all remotes transmit continuously.

If you intend to remotely mount D1 any great distance, you will need to use shielded cable. Connect the shield to circuit ground.

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Comments

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Chappers IR Remote Extender Sunday, January 29, 2012 5:04:43 PM

This circuit works for my DVD player and TV perfectly. But it won't work with a Sky remote. I have confirmed with a scope and Googling that the Sky remote operates with a 36KHz carrier, but even setting this circuit to 36KHz doesn't work. I added a visible LED to show when it's receiving remote commands, and it's receiving them from the Sky remote, but the Sky receiver won't accept what is emitted from this circuit. I don't understand it. Any ideas?

Gimp IR Remote Extender Thursday, January 26, 2012 1:31:14 PM

NE555 datasheet states that the IC can operate at up to 500KHz. Why do you claim it can't operate at 40KHz reliably and advocate use of the CMOS version?

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Chappers	IR Remote Extender	Sunday, January 29, 2012 5:04:43 PM
This circuit works for my DVD player and TV perfectly. But it won't work with a Sky remote. I have confirmed with a scope and Googling that the Sky remote operates with a 36KHz carrier, but even setting this circuit to 36KHz doesn't work. I added a visible LED to show when it's receiving remote commands, and it's receiving them from the Sky remote, but the Sky receiver won't accept what is emitted from this circuit. I don't understand it. Any ideas?
Gimp	IR Remote Extender	Thursday, January 26, 2012 1:31:14 PM
NE555 datasheet states that the IC can operate at up to 500KHz. Why do you claim it can't operate at 40KHz reliably and advocate use of the CMOS version?