With the development of electronic devices, it became necessary to organize data exchange using wireless communication. Many manufacturers of cell phones, laptops or printers are still equipping their products with infrared communications. So what is infrared (IrDA) and how to use it? What features should be considered with this method of data transfer?
The so-called infrared port got its name due to the
wavelength used. It is 860-900 nm, that is, it is in the infrared range. Using adapters designed for
receiving / transmitting data, you can organize a wireless connection, for example, with a personal computer.
There are several ways to connect transceivers:
- To a special IrDA connector on the motherboard. Many companies complete their products with them. In this case, when choosing a device, try to stick to one manufacturer of these products. Read the instructions carefully and consult the seller.
- Some types of transceivers are designed to work with COM-connector.
- And finally, the last way to connect the infrared port is a USB connector. This is the most convenient and secure way to connect from the point of view of software and hardware compatibility. Usually in this case, the system itself recognizes the connected infrared transmitter and starts to work.
It should also be noted that this type of data transfer is rather capricious and requires a careful attitude. For the stable operation of this connection, both the infrared port and the transceiver must be isolated from all possible interference. The following factors must be considered:
- Direct sunlight.
- Lighting from fluorescent lamps.
- The influence of nearby and turned on devices having a similar principle of operation: a remote control, a video camera, a radiotelephone, etc.
In addition to the above disadvantages, communication via infrared is limited in distance. As practice shows, a stable connection appears at a distance of no more than 10 centimeters, and when removed by more than 1 meter it completely disappears.
But, despite all the shortcomings, this method turned out to be quite popular and competed well with the wired connection. With its help, the work of such devices as printers, scanners, mobile phones, etc.
Using the services of your mobile operator, you can connect to the Internet by establishing a GPRS connection. It is quite expensive, but it justifies itself in travel or long business trips. That is, wherever you need a constant connection to the Internet ("unlimited" in time) and a small incoming / outgoing traffic (as payment is charged on it). In this case, the Internet provider is the company that provides mobile services.
A great alternative for IrDA is Bluetooth. Devices equipped with it have excellent noise immunity, good connection speed. They can work at a distance of several tens of meters from each other.