The location of the IR sensor on a Samsung TV can vary depending on the model.
However, some older and newer models may have it in different spots, like the bottom right corner, bottom left corner, or slightly to the left of the power button.
In this article, I’ll guide you on what to do if your Samsung TV’s IR sensor is not working and how you can replace it if you believe it has been completely damaged.
Let’s dive in…
How To Locate IR Sensor On A Samsung TV
Locating the IR sensor can be a bit tricky, but I have two methods that should work in most cases.
Here’s what you can do:
- Use a good camera with a flash and take a picture of the front of the TV where the IR sensor should be. The flash will make the IR sensor appear almost purple compared to the black bezel.
- Grab another remote control that uses infrared signals, point it at different parts of the TV’s front, and press a button. When you notice the remote working best, that’s where the IR sensor is placed.
To give you an example, here is a picture that shows the Samsung TV’s IR sensor and its Location.
How To Fix a Broken Samsung TV IR Sensor?
Here are the detailed guidelines:
Step 1: Ensure Your Remote is Actually Working
First, check the remote’s continuity.
Take your smartphone, open the camera, and point the remote’s front (where the IR transmitter is) towards the camera lens. Press any button on the remote while looking at the smartphone screen.
If the remote is working correctly, you should see a flashing light on the smartphone screen.
But if there is no flashing light, the remote may be faulty, and you may need to replace it.
Wait, try resetting the remote once!
For this, remove the batteries from the remote and then press all the buttons one by one especially holding the power button for about 15 seconds.
Once done, reinsert the batteries and try using the remote again. If it still doesn’t work, replace the batteries with fresh ones.
Step 2: Clean the TV’s IR Sensor
Perhaps the IR sensor is working correctly, but it may be covered with a lot of dust.
Though it’s rare, it’s worth checking.
Simply open the TV’s back panel and then locate the IR sensor.
Now, take a soft cloth and a soft bristle brush, and carefully clear any dust and debris from it. Make sure you clean it properly.
Once you are done, check if the sensor is working now!
How to Replace Samsung TV IR Sensor?
Before you proceed with replacing the IR sensor, you need to purchase it from Amazon or eBay.
The replacement cost of the Samsung TV IR sensor is between $20 and $40, varying depending on the model you have.
However, once you have purchased the replacement IR sensor, you are ready to perform some basic DIY
Here’s how:
- Open the TV’s back panel.
- Locate the Sensor.
- Disconnect it.
- Now replace it with a new IR Sensor. (Buy exact same Model)
That’s it.
Now, your TV should start working again, and hopefully, you will regain full control over it
F.A.Q.s
Q: Where is the IR sensor located on a Samsung TV?
The IR sensor on most Samsung TVs is typically located on the front panel, near the bottom center or bottom right.
It looks like a small, dark, shiny circle, and it receives infrared signals from the remote control.
Q: My Samsung TV’s IR sensor seems to work intermittently. What could be causing this issue?
Intermittent IR sensor issues could be caused by loose connections within the TV or a faulty component.
Check for any loose cables or connectors at the back of the TV and ensure they are securely plugged in.
Q: I accidentally spilled liquid on my Samsung TV’s front panel. Could this cause the IR sensor to malfunction?
Yes, liquid spills on the front panel can seep into the IR sensor and cause it to malfunction.
If you suspect liquid damage, turn off the TV immediately and disconnect it from power. Allow it to dry thoroughly before attempting to use it again, or seek professional repair.
Q: Is there a way to use my Samsung TV without the remote if the IR sensor is not working?
Yes, many Samsung TVs have built-in buttons or touch controls on the side or bottom of the TV.
You can use these controls to navigate the basic functions of the TV even if the remote is not working.
Abdul Kader, a handy guy and experienced founder of a TV repair shop in Gulshan, Dhaka, Bangladesh. He is mainly an expert in understanding and repairing different types of issues with Smart TVs and providing helpful insights on how to keep them in good working order. Read his Full Story.