Alarm Lock Fluorescent Light Fixtures Altering Infrared Keyfob Signals

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ALARM LOCK

345 Bayview Avenue, Amityville, New York, U.S.A. 11701 For Sales and Repairs 1-800-ALA-LOCK • For Technical Service 1-800-645-9440 Fax: 631-789-3383 • info@alarmlock.com

Note: Technical Service is for security professionals only

ALARM LOCK Tech Support

Date: Friday, April 21, 2017

F.A.Q. Subject: Fluorescent Light Fixtures Altering Infrared Keyfob Signals

Models: RR-PM1200

The infrared (IR) receiver on the RR-PM1200 may be altered by fluorescent light fixtures (fixtures of the type often used in office buildings). The light coming from fluorescent fixtures can mix with the light signal from the AL-REMOTE keyfob resulting in a reduction in operating range. This issue may be more prevalent in environments where the fixture does not include a diffuser in front of the bulbs. The following illustration uses an example of a television remote control that transmits an infrared signal similar to the type used by the AL-REMOTE keyfob:

To obtain maximum range, this issue can be addressed by shielding the IR receiver from fluorescent light or by eliminating the interfering light source by changing the fixture and bulbs. Note: Light fixtures and bulbs that operate above 42kHz will not interfere with IR remote control signals.