Environment

Remote detector

DTE Staff

An electronic device would now help trace remote controls of televisions, audio systems and satellite receivers in case these are misplaced. Researchers in the UK have developed the device which emits a signal to enable the user to locate the missing handset. A very small key finder circuit comprising a microphone, a special integrated circuit (IC), an amplifier and a small battery, is placed inside the remote control. The microphone being a piezoelectric element -- that can convert mechanical or acoustic signals to electric signals -- also functions as a loudspeaker. The device responds to the whistle signal of the user and enables him to locate the misplaced object.