Can Infrared Crystal Radios Self-Power Like Solar Cells?

AI Thread Summary
Infrared crystal radios cannot effectively self-power like solar cells due to the high frequency of infrared radiation, which is unsuitable for traditional antennas. Instead, photoresistor-type infrared detectors are recommended for capturing infrared signals. The discussion highlights the challenge of generating power from infrared, as there are currently no transmissions in that spectrum. Infrared-sensitive solar cells are available, but the purpose of capturing only infrared is questioned. Overall, the feasibility of self-powering infrared radios remains limited.
James Kidder
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Can a crystal types radio be made to work in infrared? With an antenna of lead sulfide or lead selenide perhaps?
 
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You're not going to have much luck using an antenna to pick up infrared, period. Its frequency is just way too high.

- Warren
 
Tell us what you are attempting to do and it is possible we can suggest something else.
 
James Kidder said:
Can a crystal types radio be made to work in infrared? With an antenna of lead sulfide or lead selenide perhaps?


You could just use a photoresistor-type infrared detector. They look like LEDs and you can get them from most online electronics stores. You can't use antennas regardless of their composition as antennas are designed for receiving lower frequencies in the microwave and radio range.
 
I would like something that would make its own power like a solor cell/laser or radio/crystal radio.
 
Once again, what are you trying to accomplish? No one is transmitting anything on infrared radiation.

- Warren
 
James Kidder said:
I would like something that would make its own power like a solor cell/laser or radio/crystal radio.


Well there are infrared/visible sensitive solar cells. Why do you want to be able to just capture infrared?
 
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