Does anyone know of any good outdoor IR recievers? I have a sound system around the pool and would like to operate it via ir remote. Found some XANTECH recievers, but none state they handle outside weather.
Thanks.

My guess is that nobody bothers to weatherproof an IR sensor for outdoors because sunlight is such an impossible thing to deal with.

I have heard of installs where sensors work outdoors --- where they face north, there is lots of foliage blocking most of the sky light, they intend to use it mostly at night.... And still, if such a sensor is connected to a system that is used indoors during the day, IR from the sun, reflected off surfaces, or even some from the sky can provide a constant signal through the IR system, which will make it harder for components to see the IR coming from remote controls inside the house.

I think your solution will end up being a waterproof keypad, and Xantech makes great ones.

I already have a Rotel Keypad system there, I just wanted to try and add IR capability to the system

Use a remote with an RF receiving base back by the gear, like an HTM MX-800. No aiming, no sunlight issues.

Doug @ HomeWorks

Try the Xantech 710-00 Fone Link it works great and is real easy to hook up and terminate, however limited functions...well 10. I would caution you though don't use a cheesy cordless phone..otherwise it does a great job!
http://www.xantech.com/

Sonance is going to release in Aug 04 a remote thats waterproof. Its suppose to be able to float in your hot tub. I don;t know yet if its going to be ir or rf though.

AudioPlex... Audioplex... Audioplex.....

They make a steller outdoor IR receiver. Looks like a Bullet Camera, and has great reange with strong remotes.

I just used the Audioplex piece and it worked great. Installed it on a very sunny day with no problems. I tested it from up to 30 feet away. It doesn't pick up the signal if you are too far off to the side, but otherwise i was very impressed.

Thanks everyone for your help! I think I'll be using Audioplex.