My test system falls apart at around 32000 pulses per second, this is on a 1.4GHz AMD.
Bumping up the processor speed will give diminishing returns - the issue is that I/O operations are extremely slow on x86 derivatives. You can have the fastest processor in the world but it won't go any faster than the I/O.
As far as 100% duty cycle on the IR bridge drivers, it's easy to add a secondary charge pump to allow for 100% duty cycle. Check their application notes for a circiut using a 555 timer.
Aaron |