A data communication system for facilitating communication between
infrared devices having an initiating optical interface port that
includes an IR emitter and an optical sensor. A receiving optical
interface port includes an active IR emitter that emits a pulse at a
predetermined interval and an optical sensor. A software application
causes an Attention Signal to be emitted from the initiating IR emitter
where the initiating IR emitter is positioned in detection range of the
receiving optical sensor. The receiving optical interface port is
controlled by a firmware application. The firmware is designed to
discontinue the pulse of the active IR emitter upon detection of the
Attention Signal. Once the normal pulse cycle is discontinued, the active
IR emitter is then employed for transmitting data signals to the
initiating optical interface port, thereby establishing an optical link
between the initiating optical interface port and the receiving optical
interface port. The normal operations of the IR emitter of the receiving
optical interface port remain discontinued until communication between
the ports is terminated, allowing data signals to be sent to the
initiating optical sensor from the active IR emitter.