Infrared (IR) is a wireless mobile technology used for device communication over short ranges.
IR-enabled devices are known as IrDA devices because they conform to standards set by the Infrared Data Association (IrDA). IR light-emitting diodes (LED) are used to transmit IR signals, which pass through a lens and focus into a beam of IR data. The beam source is rapidly switched on and off for data encoding.
The IR beam data is received by an IrDA device equipped with a silicon photodiode. This receiver converts the IR beam into an electric current for processing.
Infrared can be integrated into existing systems to add new technical capabilities. And, as production volumes increase, costs will continue to come down, making the technology even more accessible for an even wider range of uses.
Infrared technology is making its way into an increasingly wide range of innovative consumer applications. Among the most well-known are heat sensors, thermal imaging and night vision equipment.
In communications and networking, infrared technology is used in wired and wireless operations. Remote controls use near-infrared light, transmitted with light-emitting diodes (LEDs), to send focused signals to home-entertainment devices, such as televisions. Infrared light is also used in fiber optic cables to transmit data.
In addition, infrared is used extensively in astronomy to observe objects in space that can’t be detected in whole or part by the human eye, including molecular clouds, stars, planets and active galaxies.
Infrared technology even has many roles in the human body. These include detoxification, pain relief, reduction of muscle tension, relaxation, improved circulation, weight loss, skin purification, lowered side effects of diabetes, boosting of the immune system and lowering of blood pressure
Perhaps the most exciting part of infrared technology is its potential. Infrared communication is massive bandwidth which is available for use, but has not been exploited to its full extent.
Want to learn more? Tonex offers Fundamentals of Infrared (IR) Technology, a 2-day course that provides a basic understanding of the physical background and engineering considerations required for the design of IR systems, examining all components and combining them into imaging, sensor and surveillance systems.
Participants will learn about state-of-the-art optical systems, lightweight mirrors and adaptive optics, planar-hybrid and Z-technology focal planes, design of a ground-based IR astronomical telescope, laser-radar systems.
For more information, questions, comments, contact us.