Local availability that keeps projects moving
When a prototype deadline or lab exercise can’t wait, getting the right IR LED and accessories on the same day matters. Communica stocks a broad range of infrared emitters, receiver modules, and compatible optics so South African makers, tertiary labs and engineering teams can pick up parts from Samrand or our Pretoria and Cape Town branches. Shop Now to see what’s available or Check Stock in Samrand to reserve items for same-day collection.
Why choose local distribution over importing for IR projects
Local supply reduces lead-time risk and gives you straightforward VAT invoicing for procurement. For student labs or short production runs, that translates to predictable schedules and clearer costing. We offer bulk packs, education bundles and sample quantities so you can cost-effectively order for a class or a single bench test.
Practical spec callouts: what to check before you buy
Not all IR LEDs behave the same in a camera, proximity sensor or remote-control emulator. Focus on peak wavelength, radiant intensity, viewing angle and forward voltage. For emitter-receiver pairs, confirm wavelength overlap rather than only nominal values - many systems work best at 850nm or 940nm depending on silicon photodiode sensitivity.
| Spec |
Why it matters |
Typical values |
| Peak wavelength |
Sensor and camera responsiveness |
850 nm, 940 nm |
| Radiant intensity |
Effective range and signal strength |
mW/sr (varies by model) |
| Viewing angle |
Beam width and need for lenses |
20° to 120° |
| Forward voltage |
Driver and resistor selection |
1.2 V to 2.0 V |
Quick drive calculation (safe starting point)
Use Ohm's law to set a series resistor for a single IR LED: R = (Vsup - Vf) / If. Example: 5 V supply, Vf = 1.4 V, target If = 20 mA: R = (5 - 1.4) / 0.02 = 180 ohms. Check power rating: P = I^2 * R so P = 0.02^2 * 180 = 0.072 W - use a 0.25 W or 0.5 W resistor for safety.
Compatibility and accessory bundles
We stock lenses, IR-pass filters, pre-wired emitter modules, and matched photodiodes so you can buy a bundled kit instead of sourcing parts separately. For camera-based projects choose 850 nm emitters with narrow-angle lenses; for reflective proximity choose higher radiant intensity and wider viewing angles. Compare Specs to select bundles that save bench time and reduce assembly errors.
Explore related product categories: Shop by Category, full catalogue: All Products, and brand references: Shop by Brand.
Procurement, education packs and bulk ordering
Procurement teams and lecturers benefit from clear stock visibility, VAT invoicing and account quoting. Request a Quote for class-sized quantities or bespoke kits that include emitters, detectors, resistors and mounting hardware. We maintain stock in Samrand for fast collection; check branch hours on our Branches & Trading Hours page to plan pickups.
On-the-bench wiring reference
Simple single-LED drive (series resistor):
5V ---///\---|>--- GND
R IR LED
For arrays, use current-limited drivers or per-string resistors and mind heat dissipation. If you need test equipment to characterise radiant intensity or wavelength response, view our Test & Measurement collection for suitable power supplies and meters.
Objection handling: stock, lead times and technical support
If a specific emitter is out of stock we can suggest a close optical match from stocked brands and show measured forward voltage and radiant intensity from datasheets. For larger orders we provide realistic lead-time estimates and split deliveries to keep projects on schedule. Our online catalogue updates regularly, but we recommend you Check Stock in Samrand or contact the Pretoria or Cape Town branches directly for urgent reservations.
Why Communica adds practical value
We combine deep component ranges with procurement-friendly services: account quotes, clear VAT invoicing, branch collection and education bundles tailored to South African curricula. Whether you are building a classroom exercise, a proof-of-concept or a short production run, our assortments and technical notes reduce iteration time and waste. For company background and our service footprint see About Us and visit our homepage to learn more about what we stock.
Ready to pick parts? Shop Now to browse currently stocked IR LEDs, Compare Specs across options, or Request a Quote for bulk or education orders. Visit our branches information for trading hours: Branches & Trading Hours. For company history and service philosophy, see About Us. If you want a quick browse across categories first, return to our homepage.
Summary: local stock, tailored bundles, and procurement-ready services make Communica an efficient partner for IR LED projects across South Africa. Check stock, compare specs and reserve parts today to avoid delays tomorrow.
