KY-005 Infrared IR Transmitter Module

KY-005 Infrared IR Transmitter Module is a versatile and compact electronic component designed to transmit infrared signals from a microcontroller to a compatible receiver. This module consists of a 5mm infrared-emitting diode mounted on a small PCB, making it exceptionally easy to integrate into DIY projects and commercial prototypes. Furthermore, it operates by emitting light at a specific wavelength, typically 940nm, which is invisible to the human eye but easily detectable by IR sensors. Users can modulate this light to send encoded data, such as remote control commands or wireless sensor readings. Consequently, the KY-005 provides a cost-effective solution for short-range wireless communication without the complexity of radio-frequency designs. Therefore, you should consider this module the standard choice for building custom universal remotes or simple optical data links.

Key Features:

• High-Intensity Emission: The 5mm IR LED provides a strong signal output, ensuring reliable communication over distances of several meters.
• Plug-and-Play Compatibility: Designed specifically for use with popular platforms like Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and ESP8266, it requires minimal external circuitry.
• Low Power Operation: The module draws very little current, which makes it ideal for battery-powered remote controls and portable devices.
• Standard Pin Pitch: Featuring 2.54mm pin spacing, it mounts perfectly onto breadboards or standard female to male jumper wires.
• Rapid Response: The transmitter responds instantly to logic pulses, allowing for high-frequency carrier modulation typical of consumer IR protocols.

Technical Specifications:

• Operating Voltage: 5 V (Standard logic level)
• Forward Current: 30 mA to 60 mA (Peak pulses can be higher)
• Wavelength: 940 nm (Near-Infrared)
• Emission Angle: ≈ 15° to 30°
• Operating Temperature: −25°C to +80°C
• Signal Type: Digital (Modulated carrier frequency, typically 38 kHz)

Mechanical Specifications:

• PCB Material: FR-4 Glass Fiber
• LED Size: 5 mm (Clear or Blue-tinted lens)
• Header Pins: 3-pin male header (Signal, VCC, Ground)
• Durability: Solid-state construction ensures resistance to physical vibration and shock.

Dimensions:

• Board Length: ≈ 18.5 mm
• Board Width: ≈ 15.0 mm
• Overall Height: ≈ 7.0 mm (Including pins and LED)
• Weight: ≈ 2 g

Pinout and Wiring:

• Pin S (Signal): Connect this to a PWM-capable digital pin on your microcontroller to send modulated IR pulses.
• Pin Center (VCC): Connect to 5 V or 3.3 V depending on the logic level of your controller.
• Pin – (Ground): Connect to the circuit’s common ground (GND).
• Wiring Note: However, always use a current-limiting resistor if your microcontroller pins cannot handle the peak current of the LED directly.

Datasheet Reference:

• Download KY-005 Infrared Transmitter Module Datasheet

Commonly Used in:

• Custom Remote Controls: Creating PC-based or smartphone-controlled IR blasters for televisions and air conditioners.
• Wireless Data Transfer: Sending low-bitrate sensor data between two microcontrollers in line-of-sight.
• Optical Barriers: Acting as the light source for beam-break security systems or object counters.

Applications:

• Home Automation: Integrating non-smart AC units or entertainment systems into a central smart home hub.
• Robotics: Facilitating communication between multiple robots to synchronize movements or share tasks.
• Project Testing: Verifying the functionality of IR receiver modules and decoding software.

Equivalent Models:

• Generic 940nm IR LED: You can use a standalone LED, although the KY-005 provides a much more convenient mounting solution.
• IR LED Emitter Breakout: Various manufacturers produce similar 3-pin breakouts that function identically to the KY-005.
• Grove – Infrared Emitter: A Seeed Studio alternative that uses a different connector but performs the same optical transmission.

Package Includes:

• 1 x KY-005 Infrared IR Transmitter Module