IR Interference

[neutrino15]

We were discussing the IR sensor today. More specifically, how to build a reflecting rig that allows 360 degree control. Then we came to the topic of interference. We understand that we can use a tube to shoot our signal in a straighter line, but what happens if another team's remote has the same codes ours does? What happens if an audience member builds and brings an ultra tv-b-gone (http://www.instructables.com/id/Ultra-TV-B-Gone/)??

More though, multiple teams having the same codes, and using the same buttons.. I think first should give us all remotes at the competitions! Or do they have some other plan?

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[TomZ]

If you think about it a remotes work on thousands of different frequencies, plus a remote has about 20 buttons, there is a 1 in 5000 chance that one of the teams will use that frequency, plus only six teams are on the field. That narrows it down alot, I would personally say, don't worry about it. But possibly bring a second remote and it only takes a few seconds to reprogram the IR sensor.

[Nate Laverdure]

More specifically, how to build a reflecting rig that allows 360 degree control.
How about:
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2006/2172285053_36036eefb0.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/n8laverdure/2172285053/)

[Tottanka]

If you think about it a remotes work on thousands of different frequencies, plus a remote has about 20 buttons, there is a 1 in 5000 chance that one of the teams will use that frequency, plus only six teams are on the field. That narrows it down alot, I would personally say, don't worry about it. But possibly bring a second remote and it only takes a few seconds to reprogram the IR sensor.
who says that team won't just jam each other's IR frequency with an Ir that just sens all of the frequencies out?

[mneary]

Infrared remotes do not work on thousands of frequencies; basically they are all in the same infrared region. They are modulated with a frequency, which is usually 38KHz but 36KHz and 40KHz are also popular.

There are a lot of distinct key codes, but this assumes that your receiver isn't receiving interference from somebody else's remote while you're sending.