Used to describe the act of (often wirelessly) controlling another system.
Forms of remote-control
Remote control can be separated in two categories: wired or wireless.
Remote control is different from remote communication in a way that the second device usually does not change the logic and that each signal usually represents an action rather than information.
(In consumer electronics, a remote control is the device to control a TV or set-top box. Also an RC-car is an (often radio) controlled miniature vehicle.)
Wired
A wired remote control system isn't all that different from a regular system. The increased length of wiring might bring in problems though. For long-distance wiring, interference and signal strength might become a real problem. The use of differential signals (RS-422, RS-485) in combination with quality (shielded) twisted pair cables should extend the maximum possible cable length. The use of internet might also be a solid option for wiring remote control systems, but you should be very wary of security risks (and even then, it's still a risk). High-risk applications are "never" connected to the internet.
Wireless
For setting up a wireless connection, there are several protocols/implementations around.
Such as: Bluetooth (HC-05/06), WiFi (Esp2866), Light/IR, radio signals or magnetics (limited range).
The security of wireless can also be a risk, since the signal could be intercepted/altered.
Directional
Some remote control applications are bi-directional, which means that there is no defined "master" or "slave" device. And that both the devices can control each other.
Related
Remote-control is closely related with:
Remote-interface and remote-communication
