What is a common troubleshooting step for a remote control using an infrared (IR) beam?

The correct step for troubleshooting a remote control using an infrared (IR) beam involves checking if the consumer electronics selector switch is correctly set. This is vital because many remote controls are designed to work with multiple devices, such as television sets, DVD players, and sound systems. If the selector switch is not set to the correct device, the remote will not communicate with the intended appliance, leading to a lack of response.

When the selector switch is in the wrong position, the IR signals being sent may be directed at a different device or completely ignored, causing frustration and confusion for the user. Therefore, ensuring that this switch is correctly set can often resolve the issue immediately without the need for further intervention.

Other options, while they may seem plausible at first, do not directly address the specific issues associated with IR remote controls, making them less effective as troubleshooting steps.