Simple TV Remote Tester Circuit

A TV remote tester circuit is like a tiny doctor for your remote control.

This simple circuit uses an infrared sensor, kind of like an eye for invisible light, to see if your remote is sending out the right signals when you press a button.

If it is, a light will turn on or a buzzer will beep letting you know your remote is in good health.

This circuit is super easy to build and uses parts like LEDs or a buzzer to give you a clear signal.

Circuit Working:

Parts List:

A simple remote tester designed to assess the functionality of various types of remote handsets.

This uncomplicated remote tester serves as a valuable tool for determining the operational status of a remote handset.

It utilizes the readily available IR sensor TSOP 1738, comprising a PIN photodiode and an FET signal amplifier housed within an Epoxy case.

Operating at five volts the sensor features an active low output.

Typically, its output remains at +5V and drops to zero upon receiving 38KHz pulsed IR rays.

When the remote handset is directed towards the sensor and any button is pressed, both a buzzer and LED provide feedback confirming the handsets functionality.

Formula:

A popular infrared receiver module, the IC TSOP1738 is made to pick up infrared signals from remote controls.

It is usually utilized in TV remote testers and other similar applications.

The modulated infrared IR signals that are often employed in remote controls are detected by the TSOP1738 IR receiver module.

Its pre amplifier, automated gain control, and built in photo detector allow it to be sensitive to a certain carrier frequency (often 38 kHz for TV remotes).

Here is how to include it into a TV remote tester circuit and the fundamental equation that explains how it works:

TSOP1738 Output Behavior Formula:

Generally speaking, the TSOP1738 exhibits the following features:

Levels of Output Voltage:

The output pin OUT of the TSOP1738 drops to around 0V upon detecting an infrared signal modulated at its designated carrier frequency, which is typically 38 kHz.

When there is no acceptable infrared signal, the output pin stays high (usually at the supply voltage, or Vcc).

Interpreting the Output:

• Let us denote the output pin as V_out.
• When a valid IR signal is detected: V_out≈0(low).
• When no valid IR signal is detected: V_out≈Vcc(high).

Note:

The functionality of the TSOP1738 is predicated on its capacity to recognize and decode 38 kHz infrared signals, offering a simple way to perceive remote control signals in a variety of applications.

How to Build:

To build a Simple TV Remote Tester Circuit follow the below mentioned steps:

Circuit Explanation:

• Connect the Vcc pin of the TSOP1738 to the positive terminal of the power source.
• Connect the ground pin of the TSOP1738 to the negative terminal of the power source.
• Connect a pull-up resistor R1 between the Vcc and output pins of the TSOP1738.
• Connect the output pin of the TSOP1738 to the anode of the LED through a current limiting resistor R1.
• Connect the cathode of the LED to the TSOP1738 output.
• Connect the buzzer between the output pin of the TSOP1738 and the positive.

Construction Steps:

• Place the components on the breadboard or PCB according to the circuit diagram.
• Ensure that the connections are made as per the diagram, with correct polarity for the LED and buzzer.
• Double check all connections for accuracy and potential short circuits.
• If using a breadboard insert the components into the appropriate holes and connect them with jumper wires.
• If using a PCB solder the components onto the board following standard soldering practices.
• Power the circuit using the 5V power source.

Testing:

• Point a functioning remote control towards the IR sensor.
• Press any button on the remote control.
• Verify that the LED blinks and the buzzer sounds, indicating that the remote control is working correctly.

Note:

• By following these steps, you should be able to build the remote tester successfully.
• Remember to handle electronic components with care and double check connections to ensure proper functionality.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, a TV remote tester circuit offers a simple and effective solution for checking the functionality of TV remote controls.

By utilizing an infrared sensor and indicators like LEDs or a buzzer this circuit can quickly determine whether the remote control is emitting signals properly.

Its simplicity and ease of use make it a valuable tool for troubleshooting remote control issues, both for hobbyists and technicians alike.

With just a few components and basic assembly this circuit provides a convenient way to ensure that TV remote controls are operating as intended.

References:

Datasheet TSOP1738