Having multiple remotes controlling your TV and entertainment devices can lead to interference and confusion. Many modern remotes operate using infrared (IR) signals that can clash with each other. The good news is there are some simple ways to stop remotes interfering so you can operate your devices smoothly.
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What causes remote control interference?
Remote controls send wireless signals to communicate with your TV, audio receiver, streaming device etc. Most use infrared (IR) signals – these are flashes of light you can’t see with your eyes. The signal is a code that tells the device what to do e.g. change channel, volume up etc.
Problems happen when you have several remotes using IR signals in the same room. The different codes get mixed up and devices misinterpret which command is meant for them. This leads to behaviors like volume going up randomly or inputs changing unexpectedly. Interference gets worse the closer together remotes are used.
Tips to prevent remote control interference
1. Point remotes directly at devices
IR remotes need to be aimed at the sensor on the device to work properly. If you point a remote away at an angle, the signal can bounce off walls and ceiling, spreading across the room. Try to keep remotes oriented right at their device to create a ‘straight line’ signal pathway.
2. Get closer to devices before using remotes
Similarly, minimizing the distance between remotes and devices will reduce interference. IR signals get weaker and more dispersed further away they are from the source. Try using remotes within a couple meters or feet of devices for a stronger, more accurate signal.
3. Insert barrier strips between devices
Barrier strips are small pieces of material that block IR signals. Placing them over sensor areas isolates devices from each other’s remotes. They can be bought pre-made or fashioned from cardboard, duct tape etc. This stops stray signals affecting equipment.
4. Install IR repeater systems
IR repeater kits capture remote signals into a central box. This is wired to emitters located by devices. Repeater systems produce stronger, targeted signals for each device and avoid IR clashes. They require installation but offer a robust solution.
5. Use remotes in sequence, not simultaneously
Irregular interference often occurs when different remotes are operated at the same time. Transmitting signals consecutively rather than simultaneously can reduce crosstalk. Adding a slight delay between using different remotes creates ‘gaps’ for signals.
6. Limit remote usage to one room
Confine remote use to one central area as much as possible, keeping equipment consolidated. This prevents signals travelling to other rooms where they can conflict. Though less convenient, it avoids remotes interfering across distances.
Advanced solutions for remote interference
As well as the basic tips above, some other technical solutions can tackle tricky remote interference:
Programmable remotes
Learning remotes can be programmed to copy IR codes from original remotes. This allows one ‘master’ remote to control multiple devices, avoiding any clash between competing signals.
RF and Bluetooth remotes
Some modern remotes use radio frequencies (RF) or Bluetooth instead of IR signals. These pass through walls unaffected and gives more precise control. Converting to RF or Bluetooth remotes avoids IR interference entirely.
IR receiver port devices
Devices like satellite boxes have built-in IR receiver ports. These allow connecting an external IR sensor. A discreet external ‘eye’ can be better positioned to get clear remote signals.
Remote repeater kits
IR repeater kits involve placing small receiver units by devices. These pick up remote signals and feed them through to larger emitters that re-transmit the signal. Repeaters boost signal strength for reliability.
How to know if remotes are interfering
Some signs your remotes are conflicting with each other include:
- Volume increasing randomly
- TV input changing unexpectedly
- Devices not responding to presses
- Commands affecting wrong device e.g. Blu-ray instead of TV
- Needing to be very close for remotes to work
Pay attention to when these glitches occur – if they coincide with using another remote nearby, interference is likely the issue.
Conclusion
Remote control interference can be annoying but is usually easy to rectify. Try techniques like pointing remotes directly, using them sequentially, adding barriers and limiting to one room. For more robust solutions, look into learning remotes, RF technology, IR repeaters and port devices. With some small adjustments, you can stop remotes fighting each other and enjoy smooth operation.