TV+Remote

=TV Remote=

==

Purpose
//What is the fundamental purpose of the device?// The purpose of a remote is so people can change channels, change volume, and the input selection of the TV without having to get up from where ever they are sitting. Instead of getting up to the TV and pushing the buttons, they can stay comfortably where they're at, easily pressing the buttons on the remote.

Energy
//What energy transformations are seen in its operatio// //n?// When the chip detects when a button is pressed, it sends out a signal to the transistor. The transistor sends the signal to the LED. The LED then translates the signal into infrared light.

Controls
//What sensors/controls are designed into the device?//
 * 1) The Chip can detect when a button on the remote is pressed.
 * 2) For example, when you push the "volume down" **button** on your remote control, it touches the contact underneath it and completes the "volume down" circuit on the circuit board; it detects when the button touches the contact.
 * 3) The **integrated circuit** sends the "volume down" command to the LED of the remote.
 * 4) The **LED** sends out a series of light pulses to correspond to the "volume down" command.

(http://electronics.howstuffworks.com/remote-control2.htm)

==

Materials
//What material(s) are essential to the device?// The integrated* circuit, or chip, detects when a button on the remote is pressed. Then, the button is translated into a code; so each button has a different code. The chip sends out the signal to the transistor* to make the signal even stronger, which sends out a signal to the LED*. The LED translates the signal into infrared light. The TV can "see" the light and reacts to the command.

Integrated: To combine two parts to make a whole. In this case, the circuit is combined.

Transistor: A device that makes the electrical impulse (signal) stronger. This is done through a semiconductor.

LED: Light-emitting diode. A semiconductor that glows when a voltage is applied.

Definitions-Dictionary application. Explanations-Philip Walker

Science
//What is scientific principle is central to its operation?// Conduction is central when the chip detects when the button is pressed, creating an electrical circuit. When the LED sends out pulses of infrared light, it essentially is creating radiation or radiant energy.

Design
//What does a typical device look like?// A typical remote looks like a long, rectangular object the lays in your hand. On the remote, there are different buttons to control different commands. For example, the input selection, volume, or channel.

Evolution
//What changes have there been (or could there be) in this device?// Remotes have become more complex than the first ones. They are all different according to which TV they use. Most remotes have all the number buttons, and the increase/decrease channel and volume buttons. Other remotes have a guide, an exit, an info button that allows you to read on the TV what program you're watching, and an input selection. Also, most of the remotes today are more high tech.

Competitors
//What other devices serve a similar purpose?// A WII Remote also helps people choose different settings for a wii game. Instead of pressing different buttons on the game system, they can stay where they are and get situated for the game they're about to play. A gamecube, XBOX, or Playstation controller also serve as the same purpse.

Partners
//What other devices work in conjunction with this device?// A TV (CRT), TV (Plasma Screen) and a Cable Box all work hand in hand with the remote.

Siblings
//What other devices use the same scientific principle?// A wii remote also has an LED that sends out infrared light to the sensor bar. The sensor then picks up the signal and follows the command.