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XL-IRM0038Q IR Receiver: 37.9kHz Carrier & Low-Power Design

The XL-IRM0038Q from XINGLIGHT is a PIN photodiode and preamplifier IC designed for 37.9 kHz infrared remote control systems. This technical brief analyzes the component's 10-15 meter reception range, 2.7–5.5V voltage...

XL-IRM0038Q IR Receiver: 37.9kHz Carrier & Low-Power Design

📌 Product Overview

💡 The XL-IRM0038Q is a miniaturized infrared receiver module integrating a high-sensitivity PIN photodiode and a high-gain preamplifier IC into a single epoxy resin package. It is specifically designed to function as the signal reception front-end in infrared remote control systems, operating at a standard carrier frequency of 37.9 kHz.

🚀 Targeting consumer electronics and industrial remote control applications, the device features internal and external dual shielding to minimize electromagnetic interference. Its design prioritizes low power consumption (0.4mA typical) and wide voltage input support (2.7–5.5V), making it suitable for both battery-operated handheld devices and line-powered appliances.

📌 Typical Applications

Based on its reception range and robust TTL/CMOS compatible output, the XL-IRM0038Q is widely deployed in the following scenarios:

  • Home Automation: Climate control interfaces (air conditioners, heaters), fans, and humidifiers.
  • Multimedia Systems: Televisions, DVD players, set-top boxes, and vehicle-mounted mobile entertainment units.
  • Industrial & Computing: Peripheral control devices, instrumentation panels, and industrial automation sensors.
  • Automotive & Lighting: Automotive electronics and intelligent lighting fixtures requiring remote interaction.

📉 Key Technical Specifications

The XL-IRM0038Q offers reliable signal processing with specific performance characteristics under standard test conditions:

ParameterSymbolMin.Typ.Max.UnitNotes
Supply VoltageVDD2.7-5.5VRecommended Range
Carrier Frequencyf₀-37.9-kHzBPF Width: 6kHz
Working CurrentICC0.30.40.5mAVDD = 5V
Reception DistanceL1015-m0° Incident Angle
High Level OutputVoh4.5-5.0VVCC = 5V
Low Level OutputVol--250mVIsink = 2.0mA

💡 The module features a low-active output design, ensuring the TTL and CMOS levels remain compatible with standard microcontroller logic inputs without additional interface circuitry.

🔒 Absolute Maximum Ratings & Process Limits

🚫 Exceeding these ratings may cause permanent damage to the device. Engineers must design circuits with sufficient safety margins relative to these limits:

ParameterSymbolRatingUnitConditions
Supply VoltageVDD6.0VContinuous
Operating Temp.Topr-20 ~ +85°CAmbient
Storage Temp.Tstg-40 ~ +125°C
Soldering (Wave)Tsol240°C≤ 6 seconds
Soldering (Manual)Tsol300°C≤ 3 seconds

⚠️ Process Warning: The module is designed to withstand standard reflow processes, but manual welding temperatures must be strictly controlled to prevent degradation of the internal epoxy encapsulation or the PIN diode.

📏 Package, Dimensions & Assembly Notes

The XL-IRM0038Q utilizes an epoxy plastic sealed straw hat cylindrical packaging, which provides a cost-effective and mechanically robust solution for vertical mounting on PCBs.

  • Dimensions: The package profile is compact, with an outer diameter of Ø4.9mm and a height of 8.9mm.
  • Pin Length: The total length including pins is 22mm, allowing for sufficient through-hole lead length for secure solder joints.
  • Shielding: The semi-circular spherical design incorporates dual shielding (internal and external) to prevent electrical interference from nearby circuitry or fluorescent lighting sources.
  • Assembly: Ensure the IR receiver window is unobstructed by the chassis or overlay materials to maintain the specified reception angle and distance.

🚢 Sourcing & Supply Considerations

When integrating the XL-IRM0038Q into mass production, procurement teams should verify the following:

  • Compliance: The unit carries REACH and ROHS certification, meeting strict environmental standards for global distribution.
  • Consistency: Voltage gain and BPF (Band Pass Filter) center frequency consistency are critical for high-yield manufacturing; request sample lot testing data.
  • Authenticity: Source components through verified channels to ensure the dual-shielding design is genuine and performs to the datasheet's interference immunity specs.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the typical carrier frequency for the XL-IRM0038Q?
A: The device is tuned for a 37.9 kHz carrier frequency with a bandwidth (BPF width) of 6 kHz, making it suitable for standard remote control protocols.

Q: Can this receiver operate on a 3.3V power rail?
A: Yes, the recommended supply voltage range is 2.7V to 5.5V, making it fully compatible with 3.3V logic systems without needing a 5V booster.

Q: How does the dual-shielding feature impact performance?
A: The internal and external shielding significantly improves immunity against environmental interference, such as sunlight or fluorescent lamps (200±50 Lux), ensuring reliable data transmission.

Q: What is the maximum reception distance?
A: Under standard test conditions (0° angle), the reception distance ranges from 10 to 15 meters. This distance decreases at wider angles (e.g., 35°).

Q: What is the output logic configuration?
A: The output is TTL and CMOS compatible with a low-level active design. In the idle state (no signal), the output is high; when a signal is detected, it pulls low.

About Leon Zhang

Leon Zhang is the founder of LDeepAI, focusing on AI-assisted electronic component sourcing and verified China supply-chain support for overseas buyers. He previously worked within the Huaqiang Group ecosystem, including experience related to HQEW, one of China's well-known electronic component trading platforms. This background gives him practical insight into China's electronic component supply-chain structure, supplier screening, channel verification and cross-border sourcing workflows.

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