>
> I'd like to know the basics of Infra-RED communications, prefferably =
> using a PIC. Are there any projects available, info on sensor etc.?

Please turn off the HTML. Many of us don't use graphical, MIME compliant
readers.

The basics are simple:

1. Use a modulated beam. 38-40 Khz seems to be the standard. A well programmed
   PIC and do the job, or just as easily a 555 timer can be configured to
   generate the signal.
2. Get a demodulator in a can. It won't false trigger on random IR thereby
   providing a clean demodulated signal on the receiver.
3. Power, lenses and black tubes are necessary for large distances. Generally
   power only will give you a range of 10s of feet.
4. Power is generated by dropping large current accross small current limited
   resistors for short amounts of time. More power can also be generated by
   attaching multiple IR LED's in parallel. MOSFET's are often used as
   drivers. Just remember that LEDs can be run at higher current when
   oscillating than at a steady load. Check out the current ratings at a 50%
   duty cycle. If you're using the PIC to generate the modulation frequency
   you may be able to get better distance by changing the duty cycle to
   40% or even 33% an bucking up the current.

Once you get a clean signal path amost anything can be transmitted across it.
Good old 1200 BPS 8bits, no parity, 1 stop bit is easily generated and
recognized by even a 4Mhz PIC.

Hope this helps.

BAJ