Remote control of home electronic equipment using dual tone multi-frequency signals
Authors:   Department of Computer Science, Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti state, Nigeria, Dunmoye Leke , Ejidokun Temitayo Olutimi ,   Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria, Ejidokun Adekunle Olugbenga ,   Department of Computer Science, Kampala International University, Kampala, Uganda, Adepoju Adeyanju Ibrahim ,   Department of Computer Science, Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti state, Nigeria
Published: February 2025

The majority of electrical appliances rely on a switch as a fundamental mechanism for activation, deactivation or adjustment of appliances operation based on their requirement. It ensures safe and efficient flow of electricity or power to these devices. With the rapid advancement of technology, automation and wireless control systems have gained significant popularity. The current conventional automation regards remote control of appliances is based on Infra-Red transmission technology. The challenges associated with Infra-red technology includes short distance of transmission or operating range, inability to penetrate solid barriers, limited line of sight, inability to communicate to the user the current status of the appliance, and complete lack of security as any other person can use the remote to operate the device. By leveraging the capabilities of modern smartphones, this equipment aims to provide a user-friendly solution for remote management of electrical appliances, further enhancing the efficiency and comfort of modern homes. The work primarily presents the design and functionality of a device that wirelessly regulates home electrical equipment through the integration of GSM and an 8051 microcontroller. The system functions by having an authenticated signal transmitted from the user's mobile phone via the Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM) network to a designated phone connected to the control equipment. This signal, or code, contains specific information about the operation to be executed, such as which electrical sockets need to be turned on or off. Upon receiving the Dual Tone Multi Frequency (DTMF) signal from the user's mobile phone, the receiver phone relays it to the integrated DTMF decoder. The decoder interprets the signal and converts it into a digital output signal, which is then forwarded to the 8051 microcontrollers. Based on the received digital signal, the microcontroller activates the appropriate relays connected to each electrical socket through the ULN2003 Darlington transistor array. This activation effectively controls the power supply to the targeted sockets, enabling the user to manage their electrical appliances remotely with precision and convenience. Comprehensive testing was performed on each circuit diagram module, and notable results were achieved for the overall system. The system's unique features allow end-users to conveniently control and isolate tasks using a mobile phone. By pressing specific buttons, users can easily manage various operations remotely, enhancing the system's functionality and flexibility in a range of applications.