Abstract: A method and apparatus for receiving data carried on an infrared signal that has been encoded using one of a plurality of protocols is provided. The apparatus includes a mechanism for detecting the infrared signal and producing an electrical signal based on the infrared signal. The electrical signal is then applied to a high frequency path and a low frequency path. The high frequency path contains circuitry for filtering the low frequency components of the electrical signal. The low frequency path contains circuitry for filtering the high frequency components of the signal. Analog filters are disposed along one or both of the signal paths. Digital logic selects one of the signal paths and activates the appropriate analog filter based on a selected protocol. A mechanism is also provided for automatically sensing the protocol that has been used to encode the infrared signal.