An Experimental Low-Cost, Flashlight-Modulated Television Remote-Control System

As compared with conventional ultrasonic and RF remote control systems, a less expensive, less complicated TV remote control system is quite practical using a compact modulated light flashlight in conjunction with a built in photocell-two transistor amplifier-resonant reed relay receiver to activate the tuner motor and volume control-on-off stepping relay. Whereas present ultrasonic systems may malfunction by the rattling of keys, coins, dog tags, etc., and whereas RF systems may malfunction as a result of lightning, interfering RF carriers, RFI, etc., the optical system is virtually free of malfunction. The writer wishes to acknowledge the inestimable assistance of Mr. William Otto, engineer with Mallory Timers Company, Indianapolis, Indiana, in the development of this system, especially with regard to the application of the Mallory Resonant Reed Relay. Also the many helpful suggestions and encouragement of Messrs. John Zaleski, Arthur Burns and George Sussingham of the Mallory Battery Company.