Got it working but it takes ages to simulate. You had a label for 12 Volts but didn't have a voltage source :) Delete the 12V label from the output and add a 12 Volts source to your switching regulator.
Thanks
Adam
You can not work this out exactly. You can measure it with test equipment but that's all. If you have the datasheet for the LED you will get close but not exact.
Thanks
Adam
Pin 5 is the inverting terminal of the 555s internal comparator. I think what they mean is that it's related (connected) to the TH pin which is the non inverting terminal of the comparator which just happens to be more positive than the CV pin.
Adam
I can't see your images? How much of a change in IR levels are you expecting to see? What difference in signal propagation are you expecting to see, I bet it's very small.
Adam