How to configure your computer for infrared communication in Windows XP (305588)

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How to add a new infrared device

Note that you need to use this procedure only if Windows XP did not install an infrared device automatically when you turned on your computer. To add a new infrared device:

1. Click Start, click Run, and then type hdwwiz.cpl in the Open box.
2. On the Welcome to the Add/Remove Hardware Wizard screen, click Next. When you are asked if you have already connected the hardware, click Yes, I have already connected the hardware, and then click Next.
3. In the Devices box, click Add a new hardware device, and then click Next.
4. On the Find New Hardware screen, click Install the hardware that I manually select from a list (Advanced), and then click Next.
5. In the Hardware types box, click Infrared devices, and then click Next.
6. In the Manufacturers box, click the device's manufacturer. In the Infrared Device box, click the appropriate infrared device that best matches your hardware.
7. If you have an installation disk for the infrared device, click Have Disk, click Next, and then follow any additional instructions to install the device.

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How to view infrared device properties

There must be an infrared device installed in your computer to use this procedure. The settings in the infrared device properties are set automatically when you install a device, and do not (typically) need to be changed. To view an infrared device properties:

1. Click Start, click Control Panel, and then double-click Wireless Link.
2. On the Hardware tab, click the infrared device you want to view, and then click Properties.

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How to configure a serial port for infrared communication

Your computer must support an infrared mode for a serial port. Use this procedure to install an IrDA transceiver that is provided by the computer manufacturer. Note that you should not use the following procedure unless you are familiar with altering BIOS settings in your computer. To configure a serial port for infrared communication:

1. Start the BIOS configuration utility for your computer. Note that the method for starting the BIOS configuration utility varies from one computer to another. For many computers, you can start the BIOS configuration utility by pressing a function key that is indicated during the computer startup process. Some computers require that you start by using special configuration disks.
2. Under the peripheral or serial port configuration section, change the mode to IrDA or Infrared.

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Troubleshooting

The installation of an IrDA transceiver disables the serial port. You should not attach a serial IrDA transceiver to a serial port.

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