Abstract: An omni-directional wireless infrared transceiver and system for communicating electronic data. Each transceiver comprises a receiving lens capable of detecting infrared signals of low power and low incident angle, an LED transmitting element or array, signal peak detection circuitry with dynamic threshold adjustment, signal processing circuitry, and means for electronically connecting the transceiver with a device. The transceivers can communicate without requiring a line-of-sight or obstacle-free communication path. The system is ideally suited for infrared connections in a local environment between portable computers and peripherals such as modems, printers, and keyboards. The transceivers may be embodied with removable connectors or may be integrated permanently within a device. Further, an operator may configure the system for directional data communication in situations where omni-directional communication is undesirable.