If your remote has suddenly stopped working - but the buttons on the TV still function or you confirmed the remote works with another TV - you might be facing an issue with the IR sensor board. This tiny component receives signals from your remote and sends them to the TV's main board. When it fails, your remote control becomes useless… no matter how many times you change the batteries. 😤
But here's the twist: in many modern TVs, the IR sensor isn’t always its own separate board. It’s often integrated into the main board or even the Wi-Fi board, making identification and replacement a bit more complicated.
Let’s break down how to find, test, and replace your TV’s IR sensor - whether it's stand-alone or embedded.
Still in the "troubleshooting my remote control" phase? Then check out our helpful YouTube video below:
🕵️♂️ Step 1: Confirm the Problem is the IR Sensor
Before opening up your TV, make sure the issue really is the infrared sensor:
🔍 Test Your Remote:
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Use a smartphone camera and point your remote at it.
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Press buttons on the remote while watching through the phone screen.
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If you see a blinking purple/white light, the remote is working.
📺 Test the TV:
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Try using physical buttons on the TV to navigate menus or change inputs.
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If those still work but the remote doesn’t, chances are your IR sensor isn’t receiving the signal.
🔌 Step 2: Understand Where the IR Sensor Lives
3 Common Configurations:
| Configuration Type | IR Sensor Placement |
|---|---|
| Stand-Alone IR Sensor Board | A small separate board near the TV’s front bezel with a 2-5 wire connector |
| Integrated with Wi-Fi Board | Some TVs combine the IR sensor with the Wi-Fi or Bluetooth module |
| Integrated with Main Board | In many smart TVs, the IR receiver is part of the main logic board itself, particularly in those TVs lacking a Wi-Fi Board |
🟩 TVpartsToday Tip:
Check your TV’s service manual (or open the TV and look directly) to confirm the configuration. Don't assume it's stand-alone just because you see a plastic window - it may still route internally!
🔧 Step 3: Removing the Old IR Sensor (If Stand-Alone)
If your IR sensor is a separate board, here’s how to replace it safely:
Tools Needed:
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Phillips screwdriver
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Plastic pry tool
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Anti-static wrist strap (recommended but not necessary)
Instructions:
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Unplug the TV and wait at least 5 minutes.
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Remove the back panel of the TV.
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Locate the IR sensor - it’s usually near the bottom bezel, facing forward.
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Unplug the connector cable from the main board.
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Unscrew or unclip the board and gently remove it.
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Install the new IR sensor in the same position.
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Reconnect the cable and close the TV.
🔁 Power on the TV and test your remote again!
🔁 Step 4: What If the IR Sensor Is Built In?
If your TV doesn’t have a stand-alone IR board:
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Wi-Fi/IR combo boards are usually small and located near the side or front, with visible antenna wires or connectors.
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Main boards with integrated IR sensors will usually have the IR receiver embedded near a corner or edge - aligned with the front bezel.
In these cases:
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You’ll need to replace the entire Wi-Fi board or main board to restore IR functionality.
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Carefully match part numbers, not just the model number, to ensure compatibility.
🛠️ TVpartsToday Tip:
Don’t assume that a Wi-Fi board labeled “wireless” has no other functions - many also control IR and Bluetooth input. Double-check the board’s role before ordering.
🛍️ Choosing the Right Replacement Part
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Look for boards by part number, not just by model or manufacturer.
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Our site lets you search directly by part number - and we’ll even help verify compatibility if you send us a photo of your original board.
💬 Not sure if your sensor is integrated or separate? Contact TVpartsToday with your TV's model and serial number, and we'll help you figure it out fast.
🚚 Fast Fixes with TVpartsToday
Whether you’re replacing a separate IR board or an all-in-one combo module, we’ve got:
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✅ Quality parts
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✅ Fast shipping
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✅ Friendly support
Don’t let a $20 part keep you from binge-watching again. 🎬
🔧 Final Thoughts
Infrared sensor failures are common and usually easy to fix once you know where to look. Just remember: in modern TVs, the IR sensor is often built into other boards, especially in smart models. Take your time to verify the component before buying a replacement, and you’ll be back in control (literally) in no time!
💬 Need Help?
If you’re still unsure about the issue or need to replace a part, reach out to TVpartsToday. We can help you identify the exact cause of the problem and provide the right replacement part!
Would you rather watch a video? Check out our helpful Troubleshooting 101 playlist over on YouTube!
Would you rather chat with a seasoned repair expert? Head on over to our TVRepairHelp subReddit!
📦 Need help finding the right board or part?
📞 Call us at 930-212-1975 or browse our inventory online.
🛠️ DIY-friendly parts, fast shipping, and expert support – only at TVpartsToday.