Infrared networking

Infrared networking

Document number: 39073

The infrared port performs similar functions to the network card in enabling direct communication between computing devices. Whereas traditional networks use copper wire or fiber, infrared networks don't require a physical connection between the two devices. The only requirement from a connection standpoint is that a direct line of sight exists between the devices. This "drawback" is a benefit to security concerns. Unlike radio based wireless networking the range of infrared is limited. Although typically only two devices are involved in infrared, more can participate. The limitation is primarily based on adequate line of sight between multiple devices. Infrared networking is supported only for Windows 2000 machines.

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First check that Windows 2000 is aware of your computer's infrared port:
If the infrared port is detected the next step is to configure it.
Transferring files
Troubleshooting
More help

If your machine is Windows 2000 and you are having trouble with the IR port open a NorthStar ticket to make an appointment for service. Be sure to include your contact number. Describe the problem in detail, especially the steps you took to try to correct the problem. You will be contacted by the appropriate party. For more information on creating the NorthStar ticket, see Eureka! document 39068 — How to submit a computer or peripheral for repair.

First check that Windows 2000 is aware of your computer's infrared port:

Click on Start, Settings, then Control Panel.
Double-click on the System icon to open it.
On the System Properties window select the Hardware tab.
Click the Device Manager ... button.
If Windows 2000 recognizes your infrared port, there will be an entry within the Device Manager called Infrared Devices.
If you expand the Infrared Devices category, you'll see the infrared port.

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If the infrared port is detected the next step is to configure it.

Click on Start, Settings, then Control Panel.
Double-click on the Wireless Link icon to open it.
Select the File Transfer tab.
The first option on this tab is to display an icon on the taskbar to indicate infrared activity. This option is really just a matter of personal preference, but it is good practice to enable it.
If you want to be able to recieve files then check the box next to "Allow others to send files to your computer using infrared communications."
You should specify the default location for any files you receive via the infrared port.
The last option on the File Transfer tab lets you display the status while receiving files.
When someone transfers a file to you, Windows alerts you to the transfer and asks you if it's OK to receive the file.
Many external factors such as lighting, distance, angle, and battery power can affect infrared transfer reliability.
Displaying the transfer status will allow you to see potential problems as they happen.

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Transferring files

Establish an infrared link.

The goal is to have the infrared ports pointing directly at each other. Typical distance is about a meter, more than ten feet will usually not work.
When an infrared device is in range, the infrared connection status icon appears on the taskbar and the Wireless Link item appears on the desktop. These indicate only that an infrared device is in range.
As long as an infrared transceiver is in range, you can transfer data over the link.

A data connection is made when Wireless Link or another program communicates over the link. While a program is connected over a link, the taskbar icon changes to the connected icon.
To send a file click on the infrared connection status icon In the Wireless Link dialog box, specify the files you want to send, and then click Send.
You can also click on the Wireless Link item the desktop and use the menu.
To use the "Sendto" feature
1. In Windows Explorer or in My Computer, select the files you want to send.
2. Right-click the selected files.
3. Point to Send To, and then click Infrared Recipient.
4. If you don't see a "Infrared Recipient" selection, double check that the ico is in the system tray.

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Troubleshooting

External factors such as lighting, distance, angle, and battery power can affect infrared transfer reliability.
When the light is bouncing all around the walls and ceiling, you get a lot of echoes. That slows the data rate down considerably. Try moving both machines to, for example, avoid one of them pointing at a shiny or reflective surface.
Sunlight, fluorescent lighting, or other types of lighting can interfere with IR data communication. Try closing drapes or changing both machines orientation in relation to sources of light.
Interference from the remote control units of a TV or other appliance can interfere with IR data communication.
Data communications problems can result when the IR ports are not the correct distance from each other.
The proper distance required between IR ports depends on the device you are communicating with. See the documentation that comes with the other device for more information.
Data communication can be interrupted by a screen saver or other software that forces an interrupt during data communication.

More help

To get more information see the built in Windows 2000 help file. Click on Start, then Help, the search for " infrared".

Infrared is not supported in Windows NT.

Sometimes deleting the drivers and allowing the hardware wizard to reinstall them works.

Delete from Device manager and allow Winxdows 2000 to reinstall.

Click on the Start button, then S ettings, then Control Panel.
Select Administrative Tools
Select Computer Management
Select Device Manager
Look under Infrared devices
Highlight the driver entry (probably Toshiba FIR Port) then press the { Delete} key. Don't delete the "folder" entry "Infrared devices "
Confirm that you want to delete. If there is more than one entry then delete each entry.
Shutdown and power off.
Make sure the DVD/CD-ROM is properly seated and installed, then reboot. The hardware wizard should find and reinstall the drivers.

That should resolve the problem.