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INFORMATION

 IR CONTROL SET

30344 IR Control Set - Click to enlarge

Your IR Control Set manual contains information on using the IR receiver in normal mode, track mode or sero mode. In normal mode you will find that the operation of M1 is latching (i.e. it remains in operation when the transmitters push-button PB is released) whereas M2 and M3 are momentary in operation (they stop once the PB is released).

Figure 1 - wiring diagram of IR receiver driving a motor with two limit switches - click to enlarge

One problem with operating fischertechnik models from the IR unit is that motor driven devices may drive past their end positions. To overcome this problem, a limit switch may be used at each end of the motors travel to stop the motor once the switch is activated. The circuit in figure 1 provides this function. The two diodes (1N4004 or equivalent) are used to allow the motor to drive in the opposite direction when the limit switch is activated. Note, the limit switches should use the normally closed contact (terminal 2) in most applications.

Figure 2 - wiring diagram of IR receiver driving six lamps - click to enlarge

The IR receiver unit may also be used to drive other devices besides motors. Lamps, electromagnets, buzzers and relays could be used. NOTE: A maximum current of 250mA per output and 1A in total must be observed! Figure 2 shows how additional, low current, devices may be controlled from the IR receiver. Up to six devices may be controlled in this way. Only one of the devices connected to M2 and M3 will operate at any time, whereas one of the devices attached to M1 may remain on (since it is latched). Using the speed control function of the control unit will cause a lamp to dim. Be careful, this function may cause a relay to chatter (go on and off very fast). This is not a problem if using the fischertechnik relay module EM5 (These relay modules are still available from Procon Technology for $5 each).

Figure 3 - wiring diagram of IR receiver connected to computer interface - click to enlarge

Another possible application of the IR control unit is to use it as inputs to the computer interfaces 30520 or 30402. Figure 3 shows how to connect the receiver to the inputs of an interface unit. Up to six inputs (E1 to E6 for example) may be driven from the IR receiver unit NOTE: Spare outputs should not be used to drive high current devices such as motors! You will observe, yet again, that inputs connected to M1 are latching. Should you prefer momentary inputs then select the tracking function and use a bit of logic in your program to interpret the inputs from M1 and M2. The speed control function may also be used to provide other functions within the computer program.

Now you are ready to remotely control the Mobile Robot models from the 30400 kit! By connecting one of the M1 outputs of the receiver unit to E8 on the 30402 intelligent interface unit you can stop and start the mobile models that you make.

STOP PRESS: A learning remote, such as the AR1708 Universal learning remote control, can be used to replace the fischertechnik remote unit. Please note, most universal remotes will not be as powerful and will require the remote to be pointed directly at the receiver unit. However, the advantage is that you can program the buttons on the remote as you wish ... and control your TV, VCR, DVD etc. as well! One other 'huge' advantage with the AR1708 is that a macro function allows up to 20 sequences (with 20 programmed steps) to be performed by just pressing two keys. You can even program delays of 1 to 99 seconds between steps. Imagine? You could program the Harbor Crane to perform 20 operations very simply! This sequence of operations could also be programmed to be performed automatically at a certain time of day using the alarm function. Just think, you could wake up with your fischertechnik crane dumping water on your face!