
This feature is commonly available with smartphones in conjunction with Wi-Fi supported TVs, home theater receivers, or hubs that receive Wi-Fi signals and relay the command information via IR to the device. Using a variety of apps, this type of remote can control both device functions and content access, such as streaming audio and video. Wi-Fi: If a universal remote control incorporates Wi-Fi, you can control some smart devices through a home network.For additional flexibility, many RF remotes incorporate an infrared option. One solution is to transmit the RF commands to an external RF receiver, with the receiver resending the signal in infrared from the receiver to the device. Not many controllable devices have RF receivers that can be used with an RF remote. This allows you to control devices that are placed inside cabinets or otherwise obstructed. RF: As a solution to the line-of-sight limitation, some universal remotes incorporate an RF (radio frequency) transmitter.If that isn't possible, place accessories such as an IR repeater or IR extender between the remote and the target device, retransmitting the pulses using its IR beam or electrically via a cable connected to an IR sensor input connection.


This requires a clear line-of-sight between the remote and the device. Each time you touch a button on the remote, it sends a series of infrared light pulses to a sensor located on the front of the TV or other device. IR: This is a common method that remotes use to control devices.
