TSOP Infrared Sensor VS1838B

The TSOP VS1838B Infrared Sensor is a highly integrated IR receiver module designed to detect and decode modulated infrared signals, making it the standard choice for remote control applications worldwide. Unlike basic IR photodiodes or phototransistors that only detect raw infrared light, the VS1838B combines multiple sophisticated components into one compact 3-pin package: a PIN photodiode, an internal preamplifier, an automatic gain control (AGC) circuit, a band-pass filter tuned to 38kHz, and a demodulator circuit. This integration allows it to filter out ambient IR noise from sunlight, fluorescent lights, and other sources while accurately detecting the pulsed 38kHz IR signals commonly used by TV remotes, DVD players, and air conditioners. The output pin directly provides a digital signal that can be read by any microcontroller—when an IR signal is detected, the output goes LOW (active-low), and when idle, it remains HIGH. This makes interfacing with Arduino, Raspberry Pi, PIC, AVR, and STM32 extremely simple, requiring only three connections: VCC (3.3V–5V), GND, and OUT. The sensor supports continuous data transmission speeds up to 2400 bps, making it suitable not only for decoding remote control commands but also for basic IR data communication between devices. With its improved electromagnetic shielding, low power consumption (5mA), and wide operating temperature range, it delivers reliable performance in both indoor and outdoor environments.

Specifications

• Product Name: TSOP VS1838B Infrared Receiver Module
• Type: IR Remote Control Receiver with Preamplifier
• Carrier Frequency: 38 kHz
• Supply Voltage (Vcc): -0.3V to +6.0V (typical operation at 5V)
• Supply Current: 5 mA (low power consumption)
• Output Voltage: -0.3V to +6.0V
• Output Current: 5 mA
• Output Type: Active-Low Digital Output
• Logic Compatibility: TTL and CMOS compatible
• Data Transmission Rate: Up to 2400 bps
• Operating Temperature: -25°C to +85°C
• Storage Temperature: -25°C to +85°C
• Package Type: 3-pin through-hole
• Wavelength Sensitivity: 940 nm (standard IR)
• Reception Distance: Up to 18 meters (depending on transmitter)
• Reception Angle: ±45° (typical)

Pin Configuration

• Pin 1 (OUT): Digital output — active low when IR signal is received.
• Pin 2 (GND): Ground connection.
• Pin 3 (VCC): Positive supply voltage (typically 5V).

Applications

• Used in TV remote control receivers for consumer electronics.
• Essential in home theater systems and set-top boxes.
• Employed in air conditioner control systems and HVAC equipment.
• Used in DVD players, Blu-ray players, and media centers.
• Applied in home automation systems for wireless control.
• Common in smart home devices and IoT applications.
• Used in Arduino and Raspberry Pi projects for wireless input.
• Found in DIY universal remote control receivers.
• Employed in robotic control systems via IR remotes.
• Used in industrial automation for wireless command transmission.
• Applied in car audio systems and automotive electronics.
• Common in LED lighting controllers with IR remotes.
• Used in gaming consoles and interactive toys.
• Found in security systems for arming and disarming.
• Employed in ceiling fans and smart appliances with IR control.
• Used in educational electronics kits teaching wireless communication.
• Applied in presentation remotes and projectors.
• Common in camera shutter remotes and photography accessories.
• Used in barrier gate systems and access control.
• Found in hospital call systems and medical equipment.