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TV Remotes: Why Old Tech Still Rules
19 Jul
Summary
- The first TV remote, Lazy Bones, was wired in 1950.
- Flash-Matic used visible light, infrared uses invisible light.
- Infrared technology is cheap and ensures broad compatibility.
The evolution of TV remotes began with Zenith's wired 'Lazy Bones' in 1950. The first wireless remote, 'Flash-Matic,' utilized visible light signals in 1955. By the 1980s, infrared (IR) technology, employing pulses of invisible light, became the industry standard, a position it has maintained for over four decades.
Modern televisions often feature Bluetooth remotes with advanced functions like voice control. However, these remotes typically still include an IR transmitter. This persistence is driven by the minimal cost of implementing infrared technology and its universal compatibility with a vast array of established entertainment equipment.
The enduring presence of infrared technology in TV remotes is a testament to its cost-effectiveness and widespread compatibility with existing entertainment systems. Its continued integration ensures that older and newer devices can communicate seamlessly, making it a practical choice.
