Remote control facts for kids
A remote control is a handy device that lets you control other electronics from a distance. Think of it as a magic wand for your television, DVD player, or even your doorbell!
Remote controls don't have wires, so you can hold them in your hand and use them from your couch. They have lots of buttons for things like changing the volume, switching channels on your TV, and many other functions.
Most remote controls use special signals to talk to your devices. These signals are usually either infrared light or radio signals. To make them work, remote controls need batteries, often AAA, AA, or small coin-sized ones.
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What is a Remote Control?
A remote control is a small, portable device that lets you operate electronic gadgets without touching them directly. It's super useful for controlling things from across the room, like your TV or stereo. Imagine having to get up every time you wanted to change the channel – that's why remotes were invented!
These devices are designed to send specific commands. For example, when you press the "volume up" button, the remote sends a signal that tells your TV to make the sound louder. They are used with many different electronics, from televisions and DVD players to air conditioning units and even garage door openers.
How Does a Remote Control Work?
Remote controls work by sending invisible signals to the device they control. The two most common types of signals are infrared (IR) and radio waves (RF).
Infrared (IR) Remotes
Many older and common remotes use infrared light. This is a type of light that humans can't see, but electronic devices can. When you press a button, the remote sends out a unique pattern of infrared light pulses. A special sensor on your TV or DVD player "sees" these pulses and understands what you want it to do.
The main thing to remember about IR remotes is that they need a clear path to the device. If something is blocking the way, like a pillow or a piece of furniture, the signal might not reach the device, and it won't respond.
Radio Frequency (RF) Remotes
Other remotes use radio signals. These are the same kinds of waves that carry radio broadcasts. RF remotes are often found in things like garage door openers, some video game console controllers (like the Wii Remote), and newer smart home devices.
The cool thing about RF remotes is that they don't need a clear line of sight. Radio waves can travel through walls and furniture. This means you can sometimes control a device even if you're in another room!
What Powers a Remote Control?
Most remote controls get their power from batteries. These are usually small, common sizes like AAA or AA batteries. Some very small remotes, like those for car keys or tiny gadgets, might use flat, round coin batteries. The batteries provide the energy for the remote to send its signals.
Images for kids
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An air conditioning unit remote control
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A Samsung Nuon N2000 remote control
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The standard symbol used to denote that it uses infrared as a way to send the signal to devices
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Philco Mystery Control (1939)
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1950s TV Remote by Motorola
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SABA corded TV remote
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The Zenith Space Commander Six hundred remote control
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An RCA universal remote
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Used remote controls for sale in a market in Hong Kong.
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The emission spectrum of a typical sound system remote control is in the near infrared.
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The infrared diode modulates at a speed corresponding to a particular function. When seen through a digital camera, the diode appears to be emitting pulses of purple light.
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The exterior and interior layout of the remote control for a garage door opener
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The Brennan torpedo, one of the earliest "guided missiles".
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Remote controlled free-flying television camera AERCam Sprint
See also
In Spanish: Control remoto para niños
