Terminology correction: I think these frequencies would be in the UHF Radio
spectrum, not microwave.
From: Bob Sciamanda
Sent: Friday, November 04, 2011 4:11 PM
To: Forum for Physics Educators
Subject: Re: [Phys-l] remotes
Auto remotes use radio frequencies, typically 315 mHz or 434 mHz. These are
in the microwave part of the spectrum, not IR.
From: Anthony Lapinski
Sent: Friday, November 04, 2011 3:43 PM
To: tap-l@lists.ncsu.edu ; phys-l@carnot.physics.buffalo.edu
Subject: [Phys-l] remotes
I'm teaching about EM waves in astronomy and atmospheric absorption. I use
a remote control, solar cell, and Radio Shack amp/speaker to show that
remotes give IR pulses. These waves are partially blocked by a black
plastic bag and almost totally blocked by white paper or aluminum foil.
They go right through wax paper, clear plastic, and a metal screen.
Does anyone know the frequency (wavelength) range for typical remote
controls (for radios, TVs, DVD players, etc.)?
On a related note, my car remote pulses go through walls. Are these waves
similar to those for remotes I mentioned earlier, or is it in a different
part of the EM spectrum? I have not tried my shields with my car remote
yet.
Any other demos that can be done with these remotes?