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XL-IRM1838B IR Receiver: 37.9kHz Carrier Integration & EMI Shielding

The XINGLIGHT XL-IRM1838B is a miniature infrared receiver module integrating a PIN photodiode and preamplifier IC, designed for 37.9 kHz carrier frequency remote control systems. This technical brief analyzes critica...

XL-IRM1838B IR Receiver: 37.9kHz Carrier Integration & EMI Shielding

📌 Product Overview

The XL-IRM1838B from XINGLIGHT is a miniaturized infrared receiver module designed for infrared remote control systems. It integrates a high-speed, high-sensitivity PIN photodiode and a low-power, high-gain preamplifier IC into a single epoxy resin package. This component functions as the receiver front-end, converting optical signals into electrical TTL/CMOS compatible outputs.

👇 Design focus is placed on its dual shielding architecture, which utilizes both internal and external EMI suppression to ensure stability in electrically noisy environments. With a compact footprint of 7.6mm x 5.1mm, it is ideal for space-constrained PCBs in consumer appliances and industrial equipment.

💡 Typical Applications

  • Consumer Appliances: Air conditioners, fans, heaters, and humidifiers requiring reliable remote control decoding.
  • Multimedia & AV: Integration into televisions, DVD players, set-top boxes, and vehicle-mounted mobile DVD systems.
  • Industrial & Computing: Usage in instrumentation, industrial automation controls, computer peripherals, and induction sanitaryware.
  • Automotive & Lighting: Suitable for automotive electronics and lighting systems where long-distance reception and wide voltage tolerance are critical.

⚙️ Key Technical Specifications

📊 The following table outlines the electro-optical characteristics under standard test conditions (Ta=25°C, VDD=5V):

ParameterSymbolMin.Typ.Max.UnitTest Condition
Supply VoltageVDD2.7-5.5VRecommended Range
Carrier Frequencyf₀-37.9-kHzCenter Frequency
BPF WidthfBW-6-kHzBandwidth
Working CurrentICC0.3-0.5mAVDD=5V
Reception DistanceL1015-m0° (Test CH3018-12U)
Reception AngleL56-mLeft/Right 35°
Low Level OutputVol--250mVIsink=2.0mA
High Level OutputVoh4.5-5.0VVCC=5V

⚠️ Absolute Maximum Ratings & Process Limits

🔒 Exceeding these ratings may cause permanent damage to the device. Stress beyond these limits for extended periods affects reliability.

ParameterSymbolRatingUnitNotes
Supply VoltageVDD6.0VMaximum operating input
Operating TempTopr-20 ~ +85°CAmbient range
Storage TempTstg-40 ~ +125°CNon-operating range
Soldering (Wave)Tsol240°C≤6 seconds duration
Soldering (Manual)Tsol300°C≤3 seconds duration

⚠️ Critical Note: The low-level output voltage is guaranteed up to 2.0mA sink current. Designs must ensure the signal load does not exceed this current limit to maintain logic compatibility.

📦 Package, Dimensions & Assembly Notes

  • Package Type: Large volume epoxy plastic nose-bridge type with semi-circular spherical packaging.
  • Dimensions: 7.6mm (L) x 5.1mm (W) x 3.5mm (H).
  • Pin Length: 22.0mm (standard), designed for Through-Hole Technology (THT).
  • Shielding: Features internal and external dual shielding to resist environmental light interference.
  • Assembly: Compatible with standard wave soldering (240°C, ≤6s) and manual soldering processes. Ensure the IR receiver window is not obstructed by the chassis or PCB components to maintain the specified reception angle.

🚀 Sourcing & Supply Considerations

  • Environmental Compliance: 🟢 Certified by REACH and ROHS, ensuring suitability for export to markets with strict environmental regulations.
  • Supply Chain: Widely used in financial electronics and office machines; availability is generally stable, but verify lead times for high-volume industrial batches.
  • Quality Control: Verify the "XINGLIGHT" branding and packaging to avoid counterfeit components which may have lower sensitivity or reduced EMI shielding.
  • Technical Support: For mass production testing or cross-replacement inquiries, direct consultation is recommended.

❓ FAQ

Q: What is the carrier frequency tolerance for the XL-IRM1838B?
A: The typical center carrier frequency is 37.9 kHz with a Band Pass Filter (BPF) width of 6 kHz. It is optimized for standard remote control protocols.

Q: Can this component operate directly from a 3.3V microcontroller rail?
A: Yes. The recommended operating voltage range is 2.7V to 5.5V, making it fully compatible with 3.3V logic systems without needing an external regulator.

Q: What is the typical reception distance in a real-world environment?
A: Under standard test conditions (no direct sunlight, specific lux interference), the reception distance is typically 10-15 meters at 0 degrees. At 35-degree angles, this reduces to approximately 5-6 meters.

Q: Does the metal shielding require grounding during assembly?
A: The datasheet describes a "dual shielding" design for anti-interference. Standard assembly practice usually involves ensuring the metal shield is properly connected to the ground plane (often via the PCB ground pad) to maximize EMI immunity.

Q: How should I handle the soldering process to avoid damage?
A: For wave soldering, temperatures should not exceed 240°C for longer than 6 seconds. For manual welding, do not exceed 300°C for more than 3 seconds.

Q: Is the output active high or active low?
A: The output is Low Level Effective (Active Low). The output pin pulls low when a valid infrared signal is detected and returns to a high level when idle or no signal is present.

About Leon Zhang

Founder and Strategic Sourcing Lead, LDeepAI

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.

Expertise: electronic component sourcing, China supply-chain verification, LED components, memory and storage sourcing, RFQ risk screening.

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