Describe Infrared Technology

Infrared (IR) wireless technology is a low-power, short-range wireless technology. IR transmits data using Light-Emitting Diodes (LED) and receives data using photodiodes.

IR wireless networks are globally unregulated. However, the Infrared Data Association (IrDA) defines the specifications for IR wireless communication. Common IR characteristics include the following:

■ IR wireless technology is low-power, short-range, wireless technology that uses LEDs.

■ Infrared light signals operate in the lowest light frequency, and transmission distances are limited to a few feet or meters.

■ Infrared light cannot penetrate ceilings or walls. Four types of IR networks exist:

■ Line of sight: The signal is transmitted only if there is a clear, unobstructed view between devices.

■ Scatter: The signal bounces off ceilings and walls.

■ Reflective: The signal is sent to an optical transceiver and is redirected to the receiving device.

■ Broadband optical telepoint: Transmission can handle high-quality multimedia requirements.

Infrared networks are ideal for connecting laptops to the following types of devices that are in close proximity:

■ Multimedia projector

■ Remote control

■ Wireless mouse

■ Wireless keyboard

Setting up and configuring IR devices is quite simple. Many IR devices connect to the USB port on a laptop or desktop computer. As soon as the computer detects the new device, Windows XP installs the appropriate drivers, as shown in Figure 13-1.

Figure 13-1 Installing an Infrared Driver

The installation is similar to setting up a LAN connection.

IR is a practical, short-range connection solution, but it has some limitations:

■ IR light cannot penetrate ceilings or walls.

■ IR signals are susceptible to interference and dilution by strong light sources, such as florescent lighting.

■ Scatter IR devices can connect without line of sight, but data transfer rates are lower, and distances are shorter.

■ IR distances should be 3 feet (1 m) or less when used for computer communications.

Continue reading here: Describe Cellular WAN Technology

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