Infrared Red and Textured Cabinet Glass

[Jeffrey Schronce]

Ok, my technically oriented friends please help me out. I am building a stereo component rack (seems to be a popular topic right now) and am putting in a textured glass. By textured glass I mean most likely a 1/2" reeded or some similar glass. I assume a clear, textured glass would allow better IR transmission versus a frosted glass. Will the reeded glass likely diffuse the IR light too much to control the components inside?
Thanks!

[cabinetman]

I don't think you would have a problem. I've used bronze and smoked glass without problems. Get a sample from the supplier and try it out.



"I'M NEVER WRONG - BUT I'M NOT ALWAYS RIGHT"

[ScottGolden]

Jeff,

My guess would be that it depends on the actual equipment.

I have some IR operated equipment that works from just about any angle. I also have some that if I am off be even a refracted (or reflected) a little the device does not respond.

The remote I use is one of those operate everything in the world remotes. That was configured to operate each machine.

Both items are in the same cabinet which has a clear glass front on it.

Scott

[WoodButcher26]

Unless you're working with fairly exotic materials or have some sort of special coating, the coefficient of transmission for IR is fairly similar to that of visible light through glass. Translated, if you're able to see through the glass with your eyes, IR will see through it as well. If the visible light is diffused to a large degree, so will the IR, and any signals will be distorted as well.

I have seen some folks put a small pane of clear glass over the components to allow IR remotes to work, while putting other types of glass in the main panes.


Kim

[maxparot]

If the glass should become a problem there is equipment that will allow you to mount a sensor external of the glass and an emitter(s) to transmit the signals the the equipment inside the cabinet.
www.smarthome.com has a few options.

[Jeffrey Schronce]

I purchased 1/2" English Reeded which is very clear so hopefully there will not be a problem. I appreciate the help.