What is the IR port used for?

As the development of electronic devices, it became necessary to organize data exchange using wireless communication. Many manufacturers of cell phones, laptops or printers are still equipping their products with infrared communication. So what is IrDA (IrDA) and how to use it? What features should be considered in this way of data transmission?

The so-called infrared port has its name due to the wavelength used. It is 860-900 nm, that is, it is in the infrared range. With the help of adapters intended for receiving / transmitting data, it is possible to organize a wireless connection, for example, with a personal computer.

There are several ways to connect transceivers:

1. To a special IrDA-connector on the motherboard. Many companies complete their products with them. In this case, when choosing a device, try to stick to one manufacturer of these products. Read the instructions carefully and consult the seller.
2. Some types of transceivers are designed to work with COM- Connector.
3. And, finally, the last way to connect an infrared port is a USB connector. This is the most convenient and safe - in terms of software and hardware compatibility - the method of connection. Usually, in this case, the system detects the connected IR transmitter itself and starts working.

It should also be noted that this type of data transmission is quite capricious and requires a careful attitude. For the stable operation of this connection, both the infrared port and the transceiver must be isolated from all possible interference. It is necessary to consider the following factors:

1. Direct sunlight.
2. Lighting from fluorescent lamps.
3. Influence of nearby devices and devices that have a similar operating principle: remote control, video camera, radiotelephone, etc.

In addition to the above disadvantages, communication via infrared is limited in distance. As practice shows, a stable connection appears at a distance of no more than 10 centimeters, and when removed more than 1 meter completely disappears.

But, despite all the shortcomings, this method was quite popular and competed well with the wired connection. With its help, work was carried out such devices as printers, scanners, mobile phones, etc.

Using the services of your mobile operator, you can connect to the Internet by installing a GPRS connection. This is quite expensive, but it justifies itself on travel or long business trips. That is, wherever you need a constant connection to the Internet ("no-limit" on time) and a small incoming / outgoing traffic (since it is charged on it). The Internet provider in this case is the company that supplies mobile services.

A great alternative to IrDA is Bluetooth. Devices equipped with it have excellent noise immunity, good connection speed. They can operate at a distance of several tens of meters from each other.