Compaq Armada V300 Series Reference Manual page 90

Infrared-equipped computers are IrDA-compliant. Infrared
performance may vary depending on peripherals, distance
between infrared devices, and applications used. The infrared port
is available only on specific models.
The infrared port allows wireless communication between your
computer and other infrared-equipped devices. Operating system
support for infrared communication is currently available with
Microsoft Windows 95, but not for Windows NT 4.0. To operate
infrared on computers running Windows NT 4.0, you will need to
purchase optional software.
The infrared port produces an invisible beam of infrared light to
communicate with another infrared-equipped device.
To establish an infrared link:
Be sure the infrared ports on both devices are turned on and
facing each other at a distance no greater than 1.5 feet (about
0.5 meter).
Avoid moving the infrared ports away from each other during
data transmission.
Avoid interference from remote control units, such as wireless
headphones or audio devices, pointed at the infrared ports.
Avoid direct sunlight, fluorescent light, or flashing
incandescent light close to the infrared ports.
Keep the path between the infrared ports free of any objects
that might interfere with data transmission.
Do not point one of the ports more than 30 degrees (plus or
minus 15 degrees off the center line) away from the infrared
port of the device you are connecting with.
As you set up your infrared software, the following information
may be helpful.
The infrared port default settings are: Port, COM3; address, 3;
Interrupt Request (IRQ), 3.