How to Change IR Remote Frequency: A Complete Guide

Infrared (IR) remote controls are ubiquitous in modern households, used to command everything from televisions and DVD players to ceiling fans, air conditioning units, and LED lighting. These devices communicate using light signals invisible to the human eye, operating at specific frequencies. But what happens if two remotes interfere with each other, or if your IR remote isn’t compatible with a new device?

One potential solution lies in adjusting the IR remote frequency. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore what IR frequencies are, why you might want to change them, whether it's feasible with your hardware, and how to go about doing so safely and effectively.

Table of Contents

1. Understanding Infrared (IR) Technology

2. What Is IR Frequency?

3. Why Change the IR Remote Frequency?

4. Common IR Frequencies and Their Use

5. Can IR Frequencies Be Changed?

6. Types of IR Remotes

7. Methods to Change IR Remote Frequency

8. Using Universal Remotes as an Alternative

9. Custom Programming: JP1 and Arduino Solutions

10. Modifying Hardware to Change Frequency

11. Testing and Troubleshooting

12. Legal and Safety Considerations

13. Practical Use Cases

14. Conclusion

1. Understanding Infrared (IR) Technology

Infrared remote controls transmit signals using light in the infrared spectrum (wavelengths between 700 nm and 1 mm). This form of wireless communication is cheap, efficient, and generally reliable within short distances—usually up to about 10 metres.

Each time you press a button on your remote, it sends a burst of pulses modulated at a specific carrier frequency. The device’s receiver, tuned to this frequency, interprets these pulses as commands.

2. What Is IR Frequency?

The IR frequency refers to the carrier wave frequency used to transmit signals from the remote to the receiver. This is not the data itself, but the wave on which the data “rides,” typically in the range of 30 kHz to 60 kHz, with 38 kHz being the most common.

Here are some commonly used IR frequencies:

3. Why Change the IR Remote Frequency?

There are several situations where changing the IR remote frequency might be beneficial or necessary:

• Device Interference: Two devices using the same frequency may cause unintended responses.

• Compatibility: A new device might require a different frequency than your current remote supports.

• Signal Range Improvements: Certain frequencies perform better in specific environmental conditions.

• Custom Projects: Hobbyists and engineers building home automation systems may need custom IR configurations.

4. Common IR Frequencies and Their Use

The IR spectrum used in consumer devices is narrow and standardised, which usually prevents the need to change frequencies. However, there are exceptions:

• Sony: Typically uses 36 kHz.

• NEC Protocol Devices: Usually operate at 38 kHz.

• Philips RC5/RC6: Often use 36 or 38 kHz.

• Bang & Olufsen: High-frequency operation at 56 kHz.

Understanding what your device uses is crucial before attempting to modify it.

5. Can IR Frequencies Be Changed?

The ability to change IR frequency depends entirely on the remote control’s design. Some universal remotes and programmable remotes support frequency modification, while standard off-the-shelf remotes do not.

Generally, IR frequency can be changed using one of the following:

• Software Configuration (on advanced remotes)

• Reprogramming Microcontrollers

• Changing the Oscillator Circuit (hardware modding)

• Using Third-Party Tools or Transmitters

6. Types of IR Remotes

Understanding the type of remote you’re working with is crucial:

1. Fixed-Code Remotes

These remotes send the same signals every time. Most are mass-produced and do not allow modification.

2. Learning Remotes

Can mimic the frequency and signal of other remotes. They generally don’t allow frequency alteration unless they’re high-end.

3. Universal Remotes

Designed to control multiple devices from different brands, sometimes with adjustable frequency.

4. Programmable (JP1) Remotes

These allow deep configuration, including frequency changes, using software and a special interface cable.

7. Methods to Change IR Remote Frequency

Method 1: Using a Programmable Remote (e.g. JP1)

Requirements:

• JP1-compatible remote

• JP1 cable

• RemoteMaster software

• Knowledge of device protocols

Steps:

1. Download and install the RemoteMaster software.

2. Connect the remote to your PC via the JP1 cable.

3. Download the remote’s current configuration.

4. Change the device protocol to one operating on your desired frequency.

5. Upload the modified configuration back to the remote.

This method works only if the remote's microcontroller supports the target frequency.

Method 2: Arduino or ESP-Based IR Emitters

This method is ideal for DIY automation and custom control.

Hardware Needed:

• Arduino Uno/Nano or ESP32

• IR LED and transistor or IR module

• Resistors and breadboard

• Optional: IR receiver for learning codes

Steps:

1. Install the IRremote library in your Arduino IDE.

2. Modify the sending function to set the required frequency:

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   irsend.enableIROut(56); // Sets frequency to 56 kHz

3. Program the Arduino to send the desired signal.

4. Test on target device.

You can build a fully custom IR remote this way that sends signals at any desired frequency (within hardware limits).

Method 3: Using a Learning Universal Remote

Some higher-end universal remotes like Logitech Harmony support device profiles that use alternative frequencies. However, they do not let you explicitly choose the frequency, only load a pre-defined profile.

Method 4: Hardware Modding of Existing Remote

Warning: This involves opening the device and voiding warranties.

Process:

1. Identify the oscillator or timing component responsible for the carrier frequency—usually a ceramic resonator or a resistor-capacitor circuit.

2. Replace it with a component that adjusts the oscillation to your desired frequency.

3. Test using an oscilloscope or IR receiver.

This method is not recommended for most users due to the difficulty and potential for permanent damage.

8. Using Universal Remotes as an Alternative

If your current remote does not support frequency changes, a high-quality universal remote may help:

• Look for compatibility with a wide range of brands and frequencies.

• Devices like the Logitech Harmony Elite or BroadLink IR blasters can load specific frequency profiles.

• Some smartphone IR blasters (on Android) also offer configurable settings.

9. Custom Programming: JP1 and Arduino Solutions

JP1 Remotes

The JP1 community is a goldmine for custom remote configurations. With freely available tools, you can:

• Adjust protocols

• Create macros

• Change device codes and frequencies

Visit forums such as hifi-remote.com to download device-specific profiles and learn from community experts.

Arduino IR Solutions

Arduino boards, especially with the IRremote library, give you full control over:

• Signal protocol

• Carrier frequency

• Command structure

• Repeat behaviour

Great for learning IR fundamentals or building automated home control systems.

10. Modifying Hardware to Change Frequency

In advanced electronics, modifying the IR LED’s control signal generator can allow frequency change.

This includes:

• Changing resistor-capacitor values on timing circuits.

• Swapping a crystal oscillator or ceramic resonator.

• Reflashing firmware (where supported).

Important Notes:

• You will need an oscilloscope to verify frequency output.

• Mistakes can fry your remote or damage its components.

• This approach is best suited for engineers or electronics enthusiasts.

11. Testing and Troubleshooting

Once you've attempted to change the frequency:

Test using:

• IR Receiver Module: Connect to Arduino or oscilloscope to read frequency.

• Smartphone IR Apps: Some phones with IR sensors can verify signal strength.

• Digital Camera: Can detect whether the IR LED is blinking, although not its frequency.

Common Problems:

• No Response: Frequency may be incorrect or modulation protocol wrong.

• Weak Signal: IR LED may not support the higher frequency.

• Intermittent Operation: Check power source and transistor/driver circuit.

12. Legal and Safety Considerations

While IR frequencies are generally unregulated due to their low power and short range, it’s still important to:

• Avoid broadcasting random signals that might affect other IR devices.

• Ensure your DIY remote doesn’t damage your equipment.

• Never attempt to alter remotes still under warranty unless it’s reversible.

13. Practical Use Cases

Here are some real-world examples of when and why you’d change IR frequency:

• Home Theatre Systems: Prevent remote control interference between AV receiver and Blu-ray player.

• Home Automation: Build an IR-controlled smart home device hub.

• Device Replacement: Replace a broken or lost remote with a programmable universal one.

• Industrial Equipment: Match old legacy equipment requiring obscure IR frequencies.

14. Conclusion

Changing the frequency of an IR remote isn’t something most users will need to do—but for enthusiasts, professionals, or anyone facing device conflicts, it can be a powerful solution.

Whether you go the software route with JP1, build a transmitter with Arduino, or modify your hardware, remember to proceed with caution, verify your work, and enjoy the learning process. With the right tools and some patience, you can transform the way your remotes interact with your devices.