AllAboutAdapters IR Remote Over Cat5/Cat6 Repeater Extender Kit

1. Introduction

The AllAboutAdapters IR-EXT3 is an Infrared (IR) remote extender kit designed to extend the reach of your IR remote control signals over a single Cat5, Cat5e, or Cat6 Ethernet cable. This system enables control of up to five Audio/Video (A/V) devices from a distance of up to 800 feet (250 meters), allowing you to place your equipment out of sight while maintaining full remote functionality.

The kit consists of two main units: an IR Transmitter/Repeater and an IR Receiver/Extender. The Transmitter unit can also function independently as a local IR blaster for two devices, while the Receiver unit provides control for up to three distant A/V devices.

2. Package Contents

Please verify that all items are present in your package:

• 1x IR Transmitter/Repeater Unit
• 1x IR Receiver/Extender Unit
• 1x IR Remote Sensor Wire (6.5 feet long, 3.5mm plug)
• 5x IR Remote Blaster/Emitter Wires (6.5 feet long, 3.5mm plug)
• 1x Power Adapter (DC 5V)
• User Manual (this document)

3. Product Overview

Familiarize yourself with the components and their functions before proceeding with installation.

Image 3.1: AllAboutAdapters IR-EXT3 Transmitter and Receiver Units. This image displays the two main components of the kit: the IR Transmitter/Repeater unit and the IR Receiver/Extender unit, both housed in silver metal enclosures.

3.1. Unit Interfaces

Image 3.2: IR-EXT3 Transmitter and Receiver Port Diagram. This diagram illustrates the front and back panels of both the Transmitter and Receiver units, labeling each port and indicator light for easy identification.

IR Transmitter/Repeater Unit (TX)

• IR IN: 3.5mm jack for connecting the IR Sensor Wire to receive signals from your remote control.
• IR OUT1, IR OUT2: 3.5mm jacks for connecting IR Blaster/Emitter Wires to control local A/V devices.
• IR CAT5: RJ45 port for connecting a Cat5/Cat6 Ethernet cable to the Receiver unit.
• DC 5V: Power input jack for the included 5V DC power adapter.

IR Receiver/Extender Unit (RX)

• IR OUT1, IR OUT2, IR OUT3: 3.5mm jacks for connecting IR Blaster/Emitter Wires to control distant A/V devices.
• IR CAT5: RJ45 port for connecting a Cat5/Cat6 Ethernet cable to the Transmitter unit.
• DC 5V: Power input jack for the included 5V DC power adapter. (Note: Only one power adapter is needed for the entire system, connected to either the TX or RX unit).

4. Setup Instructions

This section details the steps for setting up your IR extender kit. Ensure all devices are powered off before making connections.

4.1. Basic Connection Diagram

Image 4.1: IR-EXT3 System Connection Diagram. This diagram illustrates the overall connection of the Transmitter, Receiver, IR Sensor, IR Blasters, and the Cat5/Cat6 cable, showing how remote signals are extended.

4.2. Local Setup (Transmitter Only)

The Transmitter unit can operate independently to control up to two local A/V devices.

1. Connect the IR Sensor Wire to the IR IN port on the Transmitter unit. Position the IR sensor in a location where it can receive signals from your remote control (e.g., near your TV or viewing area).
2. Connect up to two IR Blaster/Emitter Wires to the IR OUT1 and IR OUT2 ports on the Transmitter unit.
3. Attach the IR blasters directly over the IR receiver windows of your local A/V devices (e.g., DVD player, TV box). Ensure the blaster is securely placed over the device's IR sensor.
4. Connect the 5V DC power adapter to the DC 5V port on the Transmitter unit and plug it into a power outlet.

Image 4.2: IR Transmitter Local Setup Diagram. This image shows the Transmitter unit configured for local control, with the IR sensor connected and two IR blasters attached to A/V devices.

4.3. Long Distance Setup (Transmitter and Receiver)

This setup allows control of up to five A/V devices, with two local and three distant, over a Cat5/Cat6 cable.

1. Transmitter Unit (Local Location):
   • Connect the IR Sensor Wire to the IR IN port. Position the sensor to receive remote signals.
   • (Optional) Connect up to two IR Blaster/Emitter Wires to IR OUT1 and IR OUT2 to control local A/V devices. Place blasters over device IR windows.
   • Connect one end of a Cat5, Cat5e, or Cat6 Ethernet cable (up to 800ft/250m) to the IR CAT5 port on the Transmitter unit.
2. Receiver Unit (Distant Location):
   • Connect the other end of the Cat5/Cat6 Ethernet cable to the IR CAT5 port on the Receiver unit.
   • Connect up to three IR Blaster/Emitter Wires to the IR OUT1, IR OUT2, and IR OUT3 ports on the Receiver unit.
   • Attach these IR blasters directly over the IR receiver windows of your distant A/V devices.
3. Power Connection: Connect the 5V DC power adapter to the DC 5V port on either the Transmitter unit or the Receiver unit. Plug the adapter into a power outlet. The system is designed to share power over the Ethernet cable, so only one power source is required.

Image 4.3: IR-EXT3 Full System Connection Diagram. This diagram provides a comprehensive view of the long-distance setup, showing the Transmitter and Receiver units connected via an Ethernet cable, with IR sensors and blasters controlling multiple devices.

Image 4.4: IR Blaster and Sensor Wire Pinout Diagram. This image details the pinout configuration for both the IR Blaster and IR Sensor wires, indicating Power, Signal, and Grounding connections for 3.5mm plugs.

5. Operating Instructions

Once the system is set up and powered, operation is straightforward:

1. Ensure all A/V devices you wish to control are powered on and in standby mode.
2. Point your original IR remote control at the IR Sensor Wire connected to the Transmitter unit.
3. Press the desired function button on your remote. The IR signal will be captured by the sensor, transmitted through the Cat5/Cat6 cable, and then re-emitted by the IR Blaster/Emitter Wires to control your A/V devices.
4. Confirm that your A/V devices respond to the remote commands.

Note: The IR sensor has a reception angle of approximately 60 degrees and a range of up to 7 meters (23 feet). Ensure your remote control is within this range and angle for optimal performance.

6. Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your IR extender kit, follow these simple maintenance guidelines:

• Keep the units and wires clean and free from dust. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning.
• Avoid placing the units in areas with extreme temperatures, high humidity, or direct sunlight.
• Ensure all cable connections are secure and free from kinks or damage.
• Do not attempt to open or repair the units yourself, as this may void the warranty and cause damage.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your IR extender kit, please refer to the following common problems and solutions:

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information or technical support, please contact AllAboutAdapters directly through their official website or the retailer from whom you purchased the product. Please have your model number (IR-EXT3) and purchase details ready when contacting support.