Do Remote Controls for TVs Use Wired Connections?

It's a common question among consumers: do all remote controls used for TVs have wires in them?

Actually, the answer is more nuanced than a simple yes or no. Sometimes they do, and sometimes they don’t. Some remote controls are indeed just a bunch of modules pinched together that respond to taps on the outside, often without any wires at all.

Sometimes, though, the design necessitates the use of wires. For instance, the batteries in a remote control are often not directly connected to hard points on the printed circuit board (PCB) because these can become a potential failure point. Instead, the connection is made through on-chip circuits or surface-mounted processors, eliminating the need for physical wires.

Wiring a remote control can be quite challenging due to the complex internal structure. Remotes have PCBs to protect against moisture and wear, especially from heavy smokers. The interior contains a rubber mat with black conductive rubber dots, rather than traditional switches. This design greatly simplifies the process and minimizes the need for physical wires.

A Brief History of Remote Controls

The history of remote controls is quite fascinating. My first experience with a remote control in 1974 was quite basic. It had only four buttons and a “snap banger” that would hit a tuning fork inside. The functions were limited to channel up, channel down, volume up, and volume down. Some people might have used corded remotes, though I can’t recall ever using one myself.

Modern Remote Control Technology

Most modern remote controls use advanced printed circuit boards with surface-mounted processors. These can perform complex functions without any need for physical wires. Instead, all components, including switches and batteries, are connected through printed traces on the PCB. This approach is efficient, durable, and error-free, reducing the potential for failure in the remote control.

It's important to note that some remote controls might still use a small length of wire to connect to the battery compartment, but this is not a common practice. The preference is for manual labor in placing wires, which can be costly and prone to errors. By eliminating physical wires, manufacturers can achieve better reliability and ease of assembly.

Overall, while there are exceptions, the vast majority of modern TV remote controls do not use wired connections. Instead, they rely on printed circuit boards and surface-mounted components to deliver reliable and efficient performance.