The advent of smart TVs is driving the demand of new features on remote controls such as non-line-of-sight (NLOS) operations, greater range, faster button response, bi-directional data support, operation at high angle (>45%), etc. Currently, the predominant technology for TV remote controls is Infrared (IR). But low range, low data rate & line of sight constraints make IR unsuitable for meeting these new features. Support of these features necessitates the use of RF in remote control designs.
Cypress’ remote control solutions are based on enCoRe MCU & WirelessUSB RF products. Cypress' WirelessUSB technology offers an unparalleled feature set to enable superior RF performance, interference immunity, range, and maximum battery life. In addition, enCoRe MCUs feature an 8-bit RISC core with flash memory, low power and a variety of internal peripheral functions.
An enCoRe & WirelessUSB solution can support both IR & RF technologies simultaneously. It features low power (can support >100,000 button presses with single coin cell battery), reduced BOM, battery management support & operation at angles up to 60 degrees. The solution is complemented by drivers & firmware that has support for both IR & RF transmission.