Abstract: An improved control system utilizing infrared communication channels for remote station control is provided. A central base controller communicates with one or more channels of sub-networks through one or more field interface controllers. Each field interface controller utilizes a dedicated base infrared transceiver for transmitting envelopes of definable duration at a preselected infrared oscillation frequency. At least one remote station receives said transmitted infrared signals at an infrared transceiver tuned to said oscillation frequency. Associated devices at the remote station decode the information from said infrared transmission or issue instructions and information to an associated input/output device. Communication over the infrared channel between the base and the remote stations utilizes a unique pulse position protocol. An initiating clear pulse begins all communications. The remote station responds to the time-location of ensuing pulses following the initiating pulse.