Actuator Digital

Infrared Transmitter Module

A KY-005 infrared transmitter module emits invisible infrared light, usually for remote-control style signals.

Part images

KY-005 Module Photo. Module Photo for the KY-005 Infrared Transmitter Module. Image source: Joy-IT SensorKit KY-005 module documentation
KY-005 Pinout / Module Diagram. Pinout / Module Diagram for the KY-005 Infrared Transmitter Module. Image source: Joy-IT SensorKit KY-005 module documentation

What it is

A KY-005 infrared transmitter module emits invisible infrared light, usually for remote-control style signals.

How students use it

Students use it to send IR commands, build paired IR transmitter/receiver experiments, and learn pulse timing.

Pins and power

S signal input, VCC, and GND.

KY-005 modules usually use VCC, GND, and a digital signal input. Confirm the module voltage before wiring.

The signal pin is pulsed by code. IR protocols usually require fast bursts around a carrier frequency such as 38 kHz.

Voltage and safety

Keep the signal input Pico-safe. Do not drive the LED directly from GPIO without the module's current limiting.

Do not stare into IR emitters at close range. Keep power low and aimed away from faces.

Module internals

Main component: Infrared LED emitter.

IR LED, resistor/support components, three-pin header, and module PCB.

Datasheet notes

The LED is invisible to human eyes, so debug with a camera or a receiver instead of staring at the emitter.

Common libraries

Use machine.Pin or a MicroPython IR library when generating remote-control protocol pulses.

Common mistakes

Expecting visible light, missing the carrier timing, reversing VCC/GND, and testing without line of sight.