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Remote Controls

A remote control is an electronic device used to operate other electronics devices like televisions and dvd players from a remote distance. Remote controls are packaged with most present day televisions, dvd players etc., and usually include buttons to work every feature available with the device it came with. For example the most popular buttons on a remote will be to alter the channel, teletext buttons, fast forward, rewind, change track, and volume control. Remotes usually communicate to their respective devices by using infrared (IR) signals, it's much more unusual for them to use radio signals but not unknown. An infrared remote will use a single small diode hidden behind a black plastic see-through lens, it will emit a beam of light that reaches the device. When pressing any button you can see the diode flash red, but the light it emits is invisible to the human eye. Remotes also use little power and therefore can be powered by a couple of AA size batteries for years. A problem occurs when someone breaks a remote control, they are typically quite flimsy so dropping one or standing on it can easily break it. A simple electrical malfunction is also possible. Finding a replacement is never easy, electrical stores rarely stock the exact remote control for a specific device. A person will usually have to contact the manufacturer for a replacement. If someone does not want to go to the lengths of contacting a manufacturer then there are 'universal remotes', they can operate most devices, with price varying the amount of functions that they offer.