An LG IR blaster is a component, often integrated into specific LG electronic devices or provided as an accessory, that emits infrared (IR) light signals to control other IR-enabled appliances. Essentially, it acts as a universal remote control transmitter, allowing an LG device to communicate with and command a wide array of home electronics.
What is an IR Blaster?
An IR blaster functions by sending out infrared light pulses, which are invisible to the human eye but detectable by electronic devices. These pulses carry codes that correspond to commands like "power on," "change channel," or "adjust volume."
Common applications for an IR blaster include:
- Controlling televisions, DVD players, and DVRs.
- Operating air conditioners and other climate control systems.
- Managing almost any appliance that uses a standard infrared remote control.
One significant advantage of an IR blaster is its ability to control components that are out of direct line of sight, such as those secured in an equipment closet or another room. This allows for cleaner setups where source devices are hidden from view.
LG's Implementation of IR Blasters
While LG does not market standalone IR blasters as a primary product, the technology has been integrated into their ecosystem in a couple of key ways:
1. Built-in to LG Smartphones
For several years, LG included built-in IR blasters in many of its flagship smartphones. These devices transformed the phone into a powerful universal remote control, eliminating the need for multiple physical remotes.
How it worked:
- Users would typically open a pre-installed app, such as LG's "QuickRemote" or similar universal remote applications.
- The app would allow users to select their TV, set-top box, or other appliance from a vast database of manufacturers and models.
- Once configured, the phone's IR blaster would emit the appropriate infrared codes to control the chosen device.
Notable LG phone models that featured IR blasters include:
- LG G2
- LG G3
- LG G4
- LG V10
- LG V20
This feature was highly valued for its convenience, but it has largely been phased out in newer smartphone models due to the rise of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth-based smart home control systems.
2. External IR Blaster Cables for LG Home Entertainment Systems
In some instances, particularly with more advanced LG home theater receivers, soundbars, or specific set-top boxes designed to work with LG TVs, an external IR blaster cable might be included.
- Purpose: These cables typically plug into a port on the main LG device (e.g., a soundbar or a specific LG TV model acting as a control hub). The small emitter head of the cable is then strategically placed near the IR receiver of another appliance (like a cable box or a Blu-ray player) that might be inside a cabinet or otherwise obstructed.
- Functionality: This setup allows the main LG device's remote control (or its smart TV interface) to send commands to the connected components indirectly, enhancing system integration and tidiness.
Benefits of an IR Blaster in an LG Ecosystem
Whether integrated into a smartphone or part of a home entertainment setup, an IR blaster offers several advantages:
- Centralized Control: Consolidates multiple remotes into a single device, reducing clutter and simplifying control.
- Seamless Integration: Allows different brands and types of devices to be controlled by one LG interface, creating a more unified home entertainment experience.
- Hidden Component Control: Enables the control of devices stored in cabinets, behind doors, or in other rooms, promoting a cleaner aesthetic.
- User Convenience: Makes it easier to manage complex home theater systems without juggling several physical remotes.
Evolution and Modern Alternatives
While IR blasters offered significant convenience, their reliance on line-of-sight communication and the proliferation of internet-connected devices have led to the rise of more advanced control methods. Modern LG devices, like their Smart TVs, often utilize:
- HDMI-CEC (Consumer Electronics Control): Allows devices connected via HDMI to control each other.
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth: For controlling smart home devices and casting content wirelessly.
- Voice Assistants: Integrated directly into TVs or accessed via external smart speakers.
Despite these advancements, the IR blaster remains a straightforward and effective solution for controlling a wide range of legacy and dedicated IR-controlled appliances.
