> I will have to try the reflector. Where would I pick one up

IR LEDs come in a variety of output angles for different
porpoises. For example 5 degrees for point-to-point comms
or aperture detection, with the IR concentrated in a narrow
beam for a receiver's "sweet spot". Others have up to 80
degree or more output. The idea of a reflector for the white
LEDs was to create a parallel beam from the LEDs fan-
shaped beam. I used an old 50mm torch reflector, but
anything shiny and parabolic would do the job. Can't think
what off the shelf though. Maybe aluminium foil and plasticine
for starters ??? The LED might not need any help at the sort
of range you're probably thinking of ( < 3m ?) anyway. The
trick to good transmission is short hard pulses. Russell and
I, posterboys for Zetex, recommend ZTX transistors rather
than more common ones like BC548 or BC337. ZTX switch
faster and harder, makes a huge difference to the IR signal

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