Infrared (IR) transmitters and infrared (IR) receivers are currently used in many different devices, and they are the most common consumer electronic products. The working principle of this technology is that when one component is in a specific mode, another component may pick up and translate instructions into flashing infrared light. These transmitters and receivers are found in remote controls and various types of devices, such as TVs and DVD players. Peripherals, including this technology, also allow computers to control various other consumer electronic products. As the infrared remote controller is now operated by the line of sight, some products can be used to expand the signal transmitted by a hardwired line cargo radio frequency (RF).

The most common consumer electronic remote control uses infrared light. They are usually produced using an infrared light diode (LED), and the main component of the receiver unit is usually a photodiode. The invisible light is picked up and then changed into a remote-controlled flashing mode by the command of the receiving module. The components necessary to construct transmitters and receivers are usually inexpensive, but these systems limit line of sight operation.

In order to extend the over the horizon range of a typical infrared remote control, it can be combined with another component of the infrared transmitter and receiver. The hardwired expansion unit uses a transmitter and receiver linked by physical lines. Cixian can bypass or pass through the wall, located in one room, in another receiver and transmitter. When a signal is sent from the remote control to the receiver, it crosses the line and then reopens to the infrared transmitter at its other end.

The radio frequency IR extension performs the same function without any physical wires. These systems consist of two parts, one of which contains an infrared receiver and an RF transmitter. The paired units contain an RF receiver and an infrared transmitter. When used on an infrared remote control IR receiver, the device converts the signal and broadcasts it through the paired units of RF, then receives the signal, decodes it and sends the infrared signal.

Infrared transmitter and receiver devices can also be used in some computers. These peripherals are usually designed to connect through universal serial bus (USB), which can be used to control various types of consumer electronic products. The software allows the device to learn to control commands directly from other remote locations.