IR Receiver Module

Description

The VS1838 IR Receiver Module detects infrared (IR) in the spectrum commonly used for IR remote control or IR intrusion sensors.

PACKAGE INCLUDES:

• VS1838 IR Receiver Module

KEY FEATURES OF IR RECEIVER MODULE:

• VS1838 PIN photodiode with preamplifier IC
• 850 nm nominal wavelength detection
• Wide 45° detection angle
• 38KHz carrier frequency
• Digital output when IR detected
• 3.3 and 5V compatible

Infrared is the light spectrum up around 850 nm that is commonly used for IR remote control devices and is outside the visible spectrum for the human eye.

The module is straight forward to use.  Hook up ground and Vcc (3.3 or 5V).  The output is normally HIGH.  If an IR signal is received, the output pin will pulse LOW and the on-board LED will flash to show that a signal was received.

A simple way to test that the module is functional is to apply power and ground and then use any IR remote that you have laying around, point it at the receiver module and press a button.  The red LED on the module should flash each time you press a button on the remote.

For IR remote control applications, the IR is typically pulsed at a modulated rate of 38KHz to created coded messages when it is being used as an IR remote control for something like a TV or robot.  This helps the receiver to not react to stray IR light.  Once the receiver removes the 38KHz carrier, the coded message is sent to the output pin.  An example output is shown in the scope capture below.

Different manufacturers have different transmission protocols for these coded messages.  There is a library that can be used with Arduino called IRRemote if you are looking to create a standard remote control interface.

Module Connections

There is a 3-pin header on the assembly.  There are a couple of different labeling schemes used with this module since the raw board is used for a number of different modules

1 x 3 Header 

• G or ‘-‘  = Ground
• Center pin or R  = Vcc (typically 3.3 or 5V)
• Y or S = Digital Output.  Typically connects to digital input pin on MCU

OUR EVALUATION RESULTS:

These modules work well and are very useful for adding IR detection capability to a project including as a receiver for an IR remote control or creating a custom serial IR communication link for a project.

VS1838 Output Scope CaptureIf you need a basic IR transmitter for use with the receiver, you may also want to pick up our IR Emitter module.

Note that if you buy our IR Remote Control Kit, it comes with this module.

BEFORE THEY ARE SHIPPED, THESE MODULES ARE:

• Inspected
• Basic output verified
• Packaged in a resealable ESD bag for protection and easy storage.

Notes: 

1. This module is the same or similar to the KY-022

Technical Specifications