What is the correct PCB footprint for a smart‑TV infrared receiver?
Published 2026-10-31
Short answer
Your “infrared logic controller” on a smart TV is almost always an integrated IR remote receiver module. Its PCB footprint is typically one of two families: a 3‑pin through‑hole TSOP‑style module on 2.54 mm pitch, or a 3‑pin SMD top‑view module with gull‑wing leads on roughly the same pitch.
How do I identify it on my TV board?
1) Check the pin count and spacing: most IR receiver modules have 3 pins at 2.54 mm pitch.
2) Look for package clues: a black epoxy window and a metal or molded shield usually indicate a TSOP‑style module (Vishay TSOP/TT, Everlight IRM‑Hx, etc.).
3) Read any top marks: strings like “38”, “56”, or full codes (TSOP382, HS0038B, IRM‑3638) are common and map to vendor datasheets with exact land patterns.
4) Measure with calipers: capture lead diameter, pin pitch, body width/height, and standoff. That’s enough to choose or confirm a footprint.
TSOP‑style through‑hole: typical land pattern
The majority of TV IR/key boards use this. Typical values from common modules (Vishay/Everlight class):
- Pin pitch: 2.54 mm (0.100 in), 3 pins in‑line
- Lead diameter: ~0.5–0.6 mm; suggested finished hole: 1.0 mm (0.039 in)
- Pad diameter (TH annular ring): 1.6–1.8 mm on 1 oz Cu to maintain ≥0.3 mm radial ring
- Body width: ~6–7.5 mm; body thickness: ~4.5–6.0 mm; height above PCB: ~6–9 mm
- Courtyard: body outline plus ≥0.5 mm
- Silkscreen: pin‑1 mark and window outline for mechanical alignment
These numbers match many TSOP38xx/IRM‑36xx/HS0038B families. Always prefer the exact datasheet when you have the part code.
Do I have the SMD top‑view 3‑pin module?
If the part sits flat with three gull‑wing leads and a front window, you likely have the SMD top‑view package (often called TT/Top View). A practical, build‑proven land pattern uses 2.54 mm pad pitch, pad width 1.4–1.6 mm, and pad length 2.0–2.5 mm, with 0.25–0.5 mm courtyard on all sides. Keep copper out from directly in front only if the mechanical shroud or bezel intrudes; the IR itself is not blocked by nearby ground pour unless it physically occludes the window.
Which pin order is correct?
IR receiver modules use a few standard pinouts. The two you’ll see most often (pin‑1 on the left when looking at the front window) are:
- 1 = OUT, 2 = GND, 3 = VCC
- 1 = GND, 2 = VCC, 3 = OUT
Never assume: verify against the module’s exact code or trace the TV PCB to confirm which pin goes to 5 V/3.3 V, ground, and the microcontroller GPIO.
Layout notes for reliable IR reception
- Decoupling: place 100 nF ceramic + 4.7 µF electrolytic/tantalum close to VCC–GND. Many datasheets also show a 33–100 Ω series resistor on VCC for EMI immunity.
- Return path: route OUT away from high‑dv/dt nodes (DC/DC switch, LCD backlight drivers). A grounded guard trace around OUT helps in noisy TVs.
- Shield/ground: the can or shield pad, if present, ties to GND; give it a short, low‑impedance return.
- Mechanics: align the window centerline to the TV bezel opening; allow the module’s field‑of‑view (typically ±45–±75°) without mechanical obstructions.
What should I name the footprint in my CAD?
Use descriptive, searchable names that encode the essentials. Examples:
- IR_Receiver_TSOP_3Pin_P2.54mm_TH_Vertical
- IR_Receiver_TopView_3Pin_P2.54mm_SMD
Create separate variants if the pin order differs (e.g., “…_PinoutA” vs “…_PinoutB”), and link each to the correct symbol pin map to prevent assembly errors.
Production and compliance notes
If you’re sending this out for build, specify your acceptance criteria and environmental requirements. We can manufacture and inspect to IPC Class 2 or IPC Class 3, and support RoHS/REACH material control. Our quality management system is ISO 9001:2015 certified (SGS, certificate CN‑2023‑Q1156, valid to June 2027). Quotes are typically returned within 24 hours, with DFM feedback in 1 business day.
Need a second check? Send the part photo, pin pitch, and target datasheet—we’ll confirm a manufacturable footprint and quote within 24 hours. — Get a quote