Long Range Infrared Emitter circuit & receiver

[Sceadwian]

Use a slower 555 timer to trigger the faster 555 timer on and off. PWM'ing a PWM signal.
if you want the gap you'd need a third 555. PWM'ing a PWM'd PWM signal =)

 

[Sceadwian]

If you want a higher current to your LED's use a small value resistor...

 

[audioguru]

Guys, I can't figure this out...
I've been searching for how to burst the signal at a minimum of 10 cycles/burst with a gap time of 14 cycles.

The second 555 feeds the reset pin of the 38kHz oscillator 555 so that it is on for 10 cycles and off for 14 cycles. The duty-cycle of the second 555 must be about 10:14.

 

[curlyfry562]

I am beginning to work on a similar project, and this discussion in very helpful.

One thing I have not seen mentioned is the wavelength of the LED, and the wavelength that the receiver is designed to detect, if those are mismatched it could be causing your problem.