IR Remote Controls
Remote control can be transmitted by either radio frequency (RF) signals or by infrared light (IR). Radio holds an advantage over Infrared in that it can transmit signals over long distances without the need for line of sight.
Therefore, the use of RF signals is the decidedly more popular option and accounts for approximately 98% of remote control transmissions.
Material handling experts cite a number of reasons why infrared remote control may actually be the better of the two technologies. The first reason being that because the infrared method works by transmitting a beam of light, the operator must be in full view of the equipment he or she is operating. Once they are out of sight, the beam is obstructed and the controls turn off. This is an added safety factor, as the operator’s full ability to see and assess the situation is critical.
Another advantage of infrared remote control is that it is tuned specifically to the machine that it controls. This is helpful in situations where there is more than one piece of equipment that is outfitted for remote activity. With RF remote control there is a chance that a worker can pick up a control and accidentally start operating the wrong machine. Infrared remote control, because of the way it is tuned, makes this type of mistake impossible.
The downside to infrared is that operational range is typically limited to 30 metres and is greatly affected by sunlight. The Ultrabeam® IR series offers a power output that is unparalleled in the industry to give the user the ultimate blend of safety and usability.
