what is this thing?

[John Arnold]

This is at the front entrance of a 12 year old Toll Bros house. Never seen one before.

[John Dirks Jr]

Maybe a sensor pickup to allow the utility company to remotely read the meter?

[Kary Krismer]

I would guess an alarm switch, assuming it's roughly waist high.

Or maybe a motion sensor?

[Michael Thomas]

Xantech IR sensor:

LCD & Compact Fluorescent Resistant Wall-Mount IR Sensor - 780-80 - Smarthome (http://www.smarthome.com/8100CFL/LCD-Compact-Fluorescent-Resistant-Wall-Mount-IR-Sensor-780-80/p.aspx)

[John Kogel]

Xantech IR sensor:

LCD & Compact Fluorescent Resistant Wall-Mount IR Sensor - 780-80 - Smarthome (http://www.smarthome.com/8100CFL/LCD-Compact-Fluorescent-Resistant-Wall-Mount-IR-Sensor-780-80/p.aspx)

"When properly adjusted, the IR sensor will operate even when sunlight is directly shining into it."

Thanks, Micheal. Do they make a lens for garage door sensors as well?

[John Arnold]

Thanks!

[Paul Kondzich]

Wow John, 12 years old, thats like brand new to you isnt it....

[Rod Butler]

Looks like a mini-flat screen TV turned sideways with an aluminum frame to me.

But then I can be a smart a$$ sometimes.

[Philip]

Isn't that a self destruct button in case the house goes into foreclosure.
You would think they would put it in a more secure spot.
Of course it is a sensor, but what is it turning on and off:confused:

[Kary Krismer]

Xantech IR sensor:

LCD & Compact Fluorescent Resistant Wall-Mount IR Sensor - 780-80 - Smarthome (http://www.smarthome.com/8100CFL/LCD-Compact-Fluorescent-Resistant-Wall-Mount-IR-Sensor-780-80/p.aspx)

I've seen those inside. We recently had clients buy a house where almost every room had them for AV equipment remotes.

I'm not sure what you would have that would be IR based outside the house though. That would seem a bit odd.

[Tom Rees]

Can anyone tell me why you would need this outside?