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CtrlM - Infrared Transmitter

CtrlM is an infrared transmitter that works with FreeMs to wirelessly program and control BlinkMs from long distances. It converts BlinkM commands sent over I2C through a LinkM or Arduino into infrared commands that are converted back to the original commands by FreeMs, eliminating the need for conductive cabling.

Its ultra bright, narrow beam infrared LED allows FreeMs to be controlled 45 feet (14 m) away, but can be easily modified to accommodate an external power supply for much greater range, while minimizing interference with other infrared devices.

  • Wireless I2C controller for all BlinkM products up to 45 feet (14m) away.
  • Supports all BlinkM I2C commands.
  • When used with FreeM, CtrlM acts as one end of “virtual wire” connecting a LinkM USB adapter or Arduino to BlinkMs mounted in locations where data cabling is impossible or undesirable.
  • 20-degree broadcast angle
  • 16ft (5m) diameter projection at 45ft (14m).
  • One CtrlM can control any number of FreeMs, which can each control an arbitrary number of BlinkM devices.
  • Can be reprogrammed to communicate arbitrary infrared protocols.

CtrlM - Infrared Transmitter Product Help and Resources

Core Skill: Programming

If a board needs code or communicates somehow, you're going to need to know how to program or interface with it. The programming skill is all about communication and code.

3 Programming

Skill Level: Competent - The toolchain for programming is a bit more complex and will examples may not be explicitly provided for you. You will be required to have a fundamental knowledge of programming and be required to provide your own code. You may need to modify existing libraries or code to work with your specific hardware. Sensor and hardware interfaces will be SPI or I2C.
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Core Skill: Electrical Prototyping

If it requires power, you need to know how much, what all the pins do, and how to hook it up. You may need to reference datasheets, schematics, and know the ins and outs of electronics.

3 Electrical Prototyping

Skill Level: Competent - You will be required to reference a datasheet or schematic to know how to use a component. Your knowledge of a datasheet will only require basic features like power requirements, pinouts, or communications type. Also, you may need a power supply that?s greater than 12V or more than 1A worth of current.
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Comments

Looking for answers to technical questions?

We welcome your comments and suggestions below. However, if you are looking for solutions to technical questions please see our Technical Assistance page.

  • ATtiny Fan / about 12 years ago / 1

    Golly, ATtiny 85 on the BlinkM/MinM, ATtiny on the CtrlM, Attiny on the FreeM. ThingM must like ATtiny's.

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