Universal IR Remote

A universal IR remote is a device that lets you control multiple infrared (IR) devices, such as TVs, air conditioners, and fans, with a single controller, eliminating the need for multiple remotes. These can be smart, Wi-Fi-connected devices that are controlled via a smartphone app and controlled via voice commands through an assistant like Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa. Alternatively, there are some small adapters that plug in to turn your phone into a remote.

Key Features and Benefits

  • Consolidation: Replace the stack of remotes with a smart device or your smartphone.

  • Remote Access: Control your home’s IR devices from anywhere with a Wi-Fi connection.

  • Voice Control: Use voice commands with assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant for hands-free operation.

  • Automation: Set schedules, timers, and create routines to turn your devices on or off automatically.

  • Wide Compatibility: Most smart universal remotes are compatible with thousands of brands and models.

📦 Technical Specifications

Brand Tuya
Type WiFi IR Remote Device
Connectivity 2.4GHz WiFi
Control Type Infrared (IR)
Control Range Up to 10 meters (line of sight)
Power Supply DC 5V via USB
App Support Tuya Smart / Smart Life (Android & iOS)
Material ABS Plastic
Installation Plug & Play, App-Based Setup
Dimensions Compact & Portable

Working Process

The process can be divided into two main steps: setup and operation.

Setup/Programming

Unlike standard remotes that have a fixed set of codes, a universal remote must first be configured to “speak the language” of a specific target device (such as a TV, DVD player, or sound system). This is typically done using one of the following methods:

  • Direct Code Entry: The user finds the specific 3- to 5-digit code for their device’s brand and model from a provided manual or online list and enters it into the remote.

  • Auto Code Search: The remote automatically cycles through its internal library of codes, sending a power signal until the user’s device is turned off, at which point the correct code is stored.

  • Learning Function: More modern universal remotes can “learn” codes directly from an existing remote. The user points the original remote at the universal remote's IR receiver and presses a button. The universal remote captures and stores this specific pulse pattern.

Operation/Signal Transmission

Once programmed, the universal remote operates like any standard IR remote:

  • Button Press: When a user presses a button on the universal remote (e.g. "Volume Up"), an internal integrated circuit detects the button press.

  • Code Retrieval: The circuit consults its stored database for a specific binary code (a sequence of 1s and 0s) that corresponds to that command for the selected device brand.

  • Signal Modulation and Transmission: The remote's infrared light-emitting diode (IR LED) then emits that command as a series of invisible, rapid pulses of infrared light. To prevent interference from ambient light, these pulses are modulated at a specific carrier frequency, typically around 38 kHz.

  • Reception and Execution: The target device's IR sensor receives the modulated signal, filters the carrier frequency, and a built-in microcontroller decodes the binary data. If the code is recognized and valid, the device executes the command (e.g., increase the volume).

📊 Smart IR Remote vs Traditional Remote

Feature Smart IR Remote Traditional Remote
Control Method App + Voice Manual Only
Remote Access Yes No
Device Support Multiple (TV, AC, Fan, etc.) Single Device
Scheduling Yes No
Smart Home Compatible Alexa / Google Home No