We may be aware that LEDs have recently reached a brightness which makes them suitable for operating as a main source of lighting, but had been part of our daily lives for longer than we think. LEDs are basic components of remote controls operating with IR (infrared) systems,which are commonly used for controlling HIFI systems, television sets or DVD players. Another common form of remote controls are the RF or radio-frequency controllers. Both types of controllers are used for dimming LED lights orcontrolling RGB colour-changing lights. But what are the advantages of each? See details below.
Infrared or IR light is an electromagnetic radiation which is invisible to the human eye because of its long length of waves. In short, IR systems have two main components: the LED (or more than one LED) that sends the signal, and the receiver which decodes this infrared radiation. When you push a button on an IR remote control, the integrated circuit makesthe LED send an encoded data, which is a sequence of on and off modes. This is interpreted by the receiver and converts it into an electric current. Each button releases a different code, and the code is usually varied by the make or brand of the device.
Probably the biggest advantage of IR controllers is their price – they are very cheap applications. The infrared light works only in short distances only, and does not transfer through walls or around corners. With applications like a TV set, this is not a disadvantage, since we are infront of the device anyway when we want to operate it. Also, it is anadvantage, that you cannot switch the TV in the next room with the same remote. What is more a disadvantage is that the infrared light is directional, so if you want to operate the system you need to point the remote straight at the receiver, otherwise it does not work. Some remotes include two sending LEDs to broaden and strengthen the wave of the signal, which will make operation easier.
Radio frequency remote controls have completely different characteristics. Since these controls use radio waves instead of light to transfer data, their signals can be received farther, through wallsand around corners. You do not need to point the controller straight at the receiver anymore; moreover you can even hide it inside a cabinet or behind pieces of furniture. For the same reasons RF controllers are not ideal for smaller applications, or similar applications near each other. Controllers canbe set on different frequencies, but interferences can also occur. The price of RF controllers are also somewhat higher compared to IR systems, but are perfectand common solutions for opening garage doors, gates, or operating car alarmsor TV satellites.
For operating your LED lights both systems can beuseful depending on your needs. Take all the above characteristics into consideration when you are choosing dimmers or controllers for LED lights, and make the best of our offers. See our range below: