Interactive flat panel displays (IFPDs) equipped with infrared (IR) touch screens have become increasingly popular in recent years. Compared with traditional projector-based smart boards commonly used in education, IFPDs offer greater convenience, stability, and practicality. There is no need for image calibration before every presentation, and with advanced LED backlighting, users can enjoy clear, high-quality images at all times.
Another major advantage is the versatility of the infrared touch system. Users can interact with the display using a finger (dry or wet), stylus, pen, or any non-transparent object, making IFPDs highly adaptable across a wide range of usage scenarios.
In this article, we explore the features, working principles, benefits, and key advantages of infrared touch screens—and how IRTOUCH technology enhances user experience.
An infrared touch screen is composed of three essential components:
LCD monitor
IR touch frame
Infrared touch overlay
The overlay, typically made of durable protective glass, is positioned within the IR touch frame. Inside the frame are infrared LEDs and photodetectors. An optical bezel sits between the frame and the glass to stabilize the structure and efficiently transmit infrared light.
These infrared LEDs emit invisible beams that form a grid across the surface of the display. When a user touches the screen, the object interrupts the beams. The photodetectors instantly detect these interruptions and send data to the system, allowing precise recognition of the touch point.
The IR touch screen uses an optical interruption method:
Infrared LEDs emit beams that create an invisible x-y grid.
When a finger or object touches the screen, it breaks specific beams.
The system detects which beams are interrupted.
Coordinates are calculated and processed in real time.
This technology does not require special calibration, making the user experience more intuitive and maintenance-friendly. Routine cleaning of the glass overlay is usually enough to maintain optimal performance.
To keep the IR touchscreen operating smoothly, regular cleaning and occasional reinstallation of the overlay are recommended. Here is a simple guide:
Remove the screws securing the LCD and overlay bracket.
Carefully detach the bracket.
Place the glass overlay on a clean, flat surface.
Use canned air to blow dust off the metal frame.
Clean the inner surface of the glass with a mild, non-abrasive cleaner.
Wipe down the LCD monitor surface.
With assistance, reinstall the overlay securely.
Reattach the bottom bracket and tighten the screws.
A video demonstration is recommended for users who want step-by-step visual guidance.
Compared with resistive or capacitive touch systems, infrared touch screens deliver several unique advantages—especially in education, corporate collaboration, and distance learning environments.
IR touch technology is more affordable than other solutions, particularly when scaling to larger screen sizes.
With no extra layers blocking the LCD, IR systems provide outstanding light transmission, ensuring vibrant and accurate color reproduction.
Ideal for multi-user interaction in classrooms and conference rooms.
Typical response times under 8 ms ensure a smooth, natural writing and drawing experience.
The tempered glass overlay delivers a smooth and stable surface for annotations.
The glass layer protects the underlying LCD from daily wear and tear.
The number of LEDs and sensors can be customized to support various display sizes.
Without adhesives between components, cleaning and troubleshooting are straightforward.
LED backlighting ensures clarity, even under bright ambient lighting.
Perfect for high-definition applications.
All sensors sit inside the bezel, ensuring a full, unobstructed viewing area.
Finger, glove, pen, stylus—flexible input is always supported.
A major advantage over projector-based boards.
Light touches are registered accurately, protecting the screen and increasing longevity.
While both IR and capacitive touch technologies are widely used today, they differ in several key areas.
Capacitive: Relies on changes in electrical charge when touched by a conductive object.
Infrared: Detects interruptions in light beams; works with any non-transparent object.
Capacitive: Uses a transparent electrode layer.
Infrared: Uses LEDs and sensors integrated into a bezel.
Capacitive: Generally supports fewer touch points (often 2–10).
IR: Supports up to 40 simultaneous touch points.
Capacitive: Requires a bare finger or thin glove.
IR: Accepts any non-transparent object.
Capacitive: More costly for large screens due to specialized materials.
IR: More budget-friendly and ideal for educational and corporate large-format displays.
IR Touch: Classrooms, conference rooms, interactive whiteboards, digital signage.
Capacitive: Smartphones, tablets, kiosks, small consumer devices.
As an industry leader in infrared touch technology, IRTOUCH delivers high-precision, durable, and customizable IR touch solutions trusted by schools, enterprises, and global partners. Contact us today to explore IRTOUCH’s customizable IR touch frames, overlays, and interactive solutions.