darookie2000
Well-Known Member
http://www.envirogadget.com/computer-gadgets/asus-eee-box-206-eco-pc-with-hdmi/ hmm, this one looks more full featured
my computer controlled grow room - GrowControl 1.1
- Thread starter lorenzo08
- Start date
BigBudBalls
Well-Known Member
unless you travel/are away from room a lot, i don't see much need for the expense.
darookie2000
Well-Known Member
Yep, it looks like there's one that ships with XPThis Asus would also support win right?
It makes me happy to see people still working on the idea- let's get this thing working
Again, Lorenzo we could really use you help...
take care
darookie2000
Well-Known Member
I travel on a sometimes unpredictable schedule, which got me thinking about it originally. Plus, it's cool
futbol.madrid07
Active Member
Yeah that is def a sweet idea if you do travel alot no more worrying in the back of your head for sure...
I think it simplifies things a little. everything managed from a central place. the software can have all kinds of safety protocols added into it. if you can monitor it from a cell phone, the only other way to get that level of piece of mind is to be sitting there in person. it's the 21st century. there is so much that can be done with a computer.
btw, I am now a statistic. I've been laid off with the other 10% of the country. I've been working on the project full time, and it should be completed and ready for testing in the next few weeks.
the software is free to use and open source, but there's no way to make the hardware free, so here is how I'm doing it. the software has built in support for a bunch of different types of hardware and different ports on the computer. the printer port is the easiest and cheapest to use to build your own hardware, but is also the least reliable and most limited. the serial port is next, then imo, usb is the most reliable and most flexible. you just plug in the usb hardware into the computer and it will show up in the software ready to use. you can build your own hardware to use, or I'm putting together usb kits that I'll sell online for less then half the price of a growtronix kit.
what do ya think?
btw, I am now a statistic. I've been laid off with the other 10% of the country. I've been working on the project full time, and it should be completed and ready for testing in the next few weeks.
the software is free to use and open source, but there's no way to make the hardware free, so here is how I'm doing it. the software has built in support for a bunch of different types of hardware and different ports on the computer. the printer port is the easiest and cheapest to use to build your own hardware, but is also the least reliable and most limited. the serial port is next, then imo, usb is the most reliable and most flexible. you just plug in the usb hardware into the computer and it will show up in the software ready to use. you can build your own hardware to use, or I'm putting together usb kits that I'll sell online for less then half the price of a growtronix kit.
what do ya think?
PurfectStorm
Well-Known Member
Sorry to hear you got laid off lorenzo, but at the same time, im glad ur on our side 
+rep
I'll def be one of your customers soon as my next grow is done.
keep us updated on your progress with the software dev.
out.
PurfectStorm
+repI'll def be one of your customers soon as my next grow is done.
keep us updated on your progress with the software dev.
out.PurfectStorm
thanks. I used to work for "the man". I hate corporations and how they treat people. I was a mindless drone at a desk job, now my blood is circulating again.Sorry to hear you got laid off lorenzo, but at the same time, im glad ur on our side
my destiny, is my vision, is my project.
I'm working on a design for an underground grow which would be left alone once every now and than. So i think than grow automation should be very welcome for something like that.
Lorenzo, great to hear that the software will be done soon.
And I have a question for you. Will there be any schemes available for hardware or only kits?
Keep up the good work.
Take care
Lorenzo, great to hear that the software will be done soon.
And I have a question for you. Will there be any schemes available for hardware or only kits?
Keep up the good work.
Take care
BigBudBalls
Well-Known Member
For interface, I'd go with a FTDI (sp?) Its a USB to serial chip. Printer ports are dead, serial is too. But being a USB connector and serial on the other end (internal and TTL levels and also 3.3v) is best. Serial is easiest for your design work, and the FTDI devices have a scratch pad area for a device name and such, and are royalty free. (USB org might have a few issues, and you should get a vendor ID)And you get .5A @ 5VDC to power it. (serial power 'suck-age' is near pointless)
Plus at that point, you can use RS485 from the 'central hub/controler' to the remote devices with ease.
Plus at that point, you can use RS485 from the 'central hub/controler' to the remote devices with ease.
Hi,
I'm a computer programmer mainly working on C++ and Java but i think i could help if you need something done. I've already made something like your tying to do but for my specific needs.
So far what i did :
C#, learning a new language
Relay board, controlled by RS232, custom interface (for timers up to 4)
ADC kit (uCameleon) using analog i/o to measure PH with my Orion 420A PH Meter
and using the relay board to control 2 peristaltic pump to adjust PH down and PH up
TODO :
add temp/humidity sensor (using RS232 (FTDI) to serial convertor or direct i/o?)
add analog input for EC Meter
add digital input to monitor some floating valves in the reservoir to control auto top-off
Graph, logging etc...
Web interface
Webcam
I wont share my source because it builded for MY specific need BUT i may be able to help here...
PM me if i can help anyting
skaos
I'm a computer programmer mainly working on C++ and Java but i think i could help if you need something done. I've already made something like your tying to do but for my specific needs.
So far what i did :
C#, learning a new language
Relay board, controlled by RS232, custom interface (for timers up to 4)
ADC kit (uCameleon) using analog i/o to measure PH with my Orion 420A PH Meter
and using the relay board to control 2 peristaltic pump to adjust PH down and PH up
TODO :
add temp/humidity sensor (using RS232 (FTDI) to serial convertor or direct i/o?)
add analog input for EC Meter
add digital input to monitor some floating valves in the reservoir to control auto top-off
Graph, logging etc...
Web interface
Webcam
I wont share my source because it builded for MY specific need BUT i may be able to help here...
PM me if i can help anyting
skaos
Aleister93
Active Member
This is a great thread, but it seems costly, and I'd have to learn multiple new skills to apply it. I'm considering starting a thread of my own, on how to do monitoring/control as cheaply as possible. I don't know anything about PLCs, but i'm fairly comfortable with PCs. Using a PC to gather data and control devices/processes has the advantage that it facilitates making your information remotely accessible by internet. Plus, I already have a lot of old computers laying around, which thrills my inner Scotsman beyond measure. A few random notes in regard to this follow. (forgive me, I promise not to hog this thread)
Criteria would be: a) cheapness b) cheapness c) ease of implementation d)flexibility e) accessible by internet if at all possible.
1) dataq makes some cheap ($25-$50) hobby model data loggers (multi-channel A/D with either serial or USB inputs) these seem like they would be adaptable to simultaneously measuring temperature, humidity, ph, and EC/TDS. They also have interfaces available in Active X and in the case of the serial model, C++, so development could be done without re-inventing the wheel.
2) A lot of security can be gotten by use of a simple webcam monitoring program. The house where I kept my grow was burglarized last year, and "Active WebCam" emailed me some lovely photos of my burglar, as well as alerting me within a minute that someone was in the house. There are other programs with similar functionality, allowing you to accomplish a great deal for the price of a cheap web cam, plus software, if you pay for it.
3) My choice for device control would be the parallel port. My reasons for this are simple, it's cheap to work with, and I understand it well enough to program it. I recommend :
"Programming the Parallel Port" by Dhanajay V. Gadre,
"PC Hardware Projects Vol. 2" by James Barbarello, and "PC Intern" which I believe is available online, hint hint. Also, There are plans online for light show controllers meant to be driven from the parallel port, I don't have the references in front of me.
Here is a kit that might be useful:
http://www.electronickits.com/kit/complete/elec/ck1601.htm
the relays are only 10 amp, I would be loathe to run lights on that without checking carefully with an electrical expert. I would personally look for something with 20 amp relays or more per 1000W light, but what do I know? A 400w light nominally draws a little over 3 amps @ 120v , IF I remember correctly, but might use a lot more when firing up?? My general inclination would be to put lights on their own circuit, on a dedicated mechanical timer. But, I would feel fine using a board like this for lighter stuff, pumps, fans, etc. If you're away for long periods of time, I'd get a UPS for the computer you're using as a controller. and for your router/dsl modem/cable modem, if you want to be sure you can check on the computer.
Let me know if this thread idea stirs up any enthusiasm.
Criteria would be: a) cheapness b) cheapness c) ease of implementation d)flexibility e) accessible by internet if at all possible.
1) dataq makes some cheap ($25-$50) hobby model data loggers (multi-channel A/D with either serial or USB inputs) these seem like they would be adaptable to simultaneously measuring temperature, humidity, ph, and EC/TDS. They also have interfaces available in Active X and in the case of the serial model, C++, so development could be done without re-inventing the wheel.
2) A lot of security can be gotten by use of a simple webcam monitoring program. The house where I kept my grow was burglarized last year, and "Active WebCam" emailed me some lovely photos of my burglar, as well as alerting me within a minute that someone was in the house. There are other programs with similar functionality, allowing you to accomplish a great deal for the price of a cheap web cam, plus software, if you pay for it.
3) My choice for device control would be the parallel port. My reasons for this are simple, it's cheap to work with, and I understand it well enough to program it. I recommend :
"Programming the Parallel Port" by Dhanajay V. Gadre,
"PC Hardware Projects Vol. 2" by James Barbarello, and "PC Intern" which I believe is available online, hint hint. Also, There are plans online for light show controllers meant to be driven from the parallel port, I don't have the references in front of me.
Here is a kit that might be useful:
http://www.electronickits.com/kit/complete/elec/ck1601.htm
the relays are only 10 amp, I would be loathe to run lights on that without checking carefully with an electrical expert. I would personally look for something with 20 amp relays or more per 1000W light, but what do I know? A 400w light nominally draws a little over 3 amps @ 120v , IF I remember correctly, but might use a lot more when firing up?? My general inclination would be to put lights on their own circuit, on a dedicated mechanical timer. But, I would feel fine using a board like this for lighter stuff, pumps, fans, etc. If you're away for long periods of time, I'd get a UPS for the computer you're using as a controller. and for your router/dsl modem/cable modem, if you want to be sure you can check on the computer.
Let me know if this thread idea stirs up any enthusiasm.
BigBudBalls
Well-Known Member
Makes sense if you travel a lot. but if you have a normal job I agree,
The parallel port is dead. As is the RS232/serial port. You would be making an antique.brainwav93 said:
What you want to do is get a multi-port data interface for use with temp/pH electrodes...
I couldn't find a better picture because I can't remember the name but the black box in the top right is made for reading many different sensors (they calibrate themselves) through data studio or another program.
I couldn't find a better picture because I can't remember the name but the black box in the top right is made for reading many different sensors (they calibrate themselves) through data studio or another program.
monkeystone
Member
Hi Guys,
I am greatly interested in your computer Controlled grow room. I have researched several pc based controllers and found a promising one at
http://www.pc-control.co.uk/control_master.htm
I talked briefly with one of their technicians and was told this,
"Hello Dave,
We don't actually sell sensors at the moment, but if you do manage to find the ones you need you should check that they have either a voltage or current proportional to the measured
physical property (rather than pulse type outputs) as these will be compatible with all of our measurement products (eg WASP, Digibee+, Analogue slave etc...).
From your description, you may like to consider our new Distributed Control Range which goes on sale on 1st Nov. It would seem to be the most suitable for your application.
http://www.pc-control.co.uk/control_master.htm
best regards
Archie McDougall
PC Control Ltd."
I already built my own ebb and grow bucket controllers and would like to hook the systems up to the computer to use it as the timer and data logger. I want to computer control my Telaire 7001 CO2 reader to turn on and off a NG Burner. It would be nice to continuously monitor the PH of 6 reservoirs and control temperature and humidity in the veg room and bloom room. So I would need to computer control a few power outlets, and have temp and humidity sensors. I also would like to have a grow journal to log what nutrient solution I use including the measurements of each (formulas) and have a ppm/ph chart for each reservoir, schedule fills/flushes and weekly nutrient changes for the cycle the plants are in.
I don't want to pay growtronix for something I can build myself, but I need help with the software side and someone with electronics knowledge to help me build or purchase the sensors.
I can solder and have basic ac/dc and am fully computer savy with a little programming know how. I am more then willing to contribute and pay for others work if you have anything working or in kit form.
Needs:
Peace
I am greatly interested in your computer Controlled grow room. I have researched several pc based controllers and found a promising one at
http://www.pc-control.co.uk/control_master.htm
I talked briefly with one of their technicians and was told this,
"Hello Dave,
We don't actually sell sensors at the moment, but if you do manage to find the ones you need you should check that they have either a voltage or current proportional to the measured
physical property (rather than pulse type outputs) as these will be compatible with all of our measurement products (eg WASP, Digibee+, Analogue slave etc...).
From your description, you may like to consider our new Distributed Control Range which goes on sale on 1st Nov. It would seem to be the most suitable for your application.
http://www.pc-control.co.uk/control_master.htm
best regards
Archie McDougall
PC Control Ltd."
I already built my own ebb and grow bucket controllers and would like to hook the systems up to the computer to use it as the timer and data logger. I want to computer control my Telaire 7001 CO2 reader to turn on and off a NG Burner. It would be nice to continuously monitor the PH of 6 reservoirs and control temperature and humidity in the veg room and bloom room. So I would need to computer control a few power outlets, and have temp and humidity sensors. I also would like to have a grow journal to log what nutrient solution I use including the measurements of each (formulas) and have a ppm/ph chart for each reservoir, schedule fills/flushes and weekly nutrient changes for the cycle the plants are in.
I don't want to pay growtronix for something I can build myself, but I need help with the software side and someone with electronics knowledge to help me build or purchase the sensors.
I can solder and have basic ac/dc and am fully computer savy with a little programming know how. I am more then willing to contribute and pay for others work if you have anything working or in kit form.
Needs:
- Software that interfaces 20a power plugs as a timer.
- Computer controlled climate controller or equivalent
- Temperature Sensor
- Humidity Sensor
- Computer control a CO2 reader that controls a Natural Gas generator.
- Grow Journal software that interfaces the sensors.
- Fire the Vape up, its 4:20
Peace
monkeystone
Member
Distributed Control: An electrical, electronic or electromechanical system where a number of devices are controlled in some way based on the requirement to perform a pre-specified set of operations while also , possibly, taking account of sensor readings, can be described loosely as a control system. In any control system there is a controller which acts as the brain behind the process. In a typical PLC control system the PLC controller is a single entity with lots of inputs and outputs suited to a wide variety of devices and sensors.
Once the PLC has been programmed with the particular requirements of the application and it has been connected to all its inputs and outputs , it is ready to control. The PLC would typically repeat the following loop continuously as it performs its tasks .
1. Read all Inputs
2. Determine New Outputs based on current state and current inputs
3. Set the New Outputs
All processing needed to be done in carrying out this loop would be done by the PLC ‟s own local processor. All wiring to and from the sensors and controlled devices would also be routed to somewhere near the PLC‟s processor. Typically this would be in a cabinet fitted with DIN rails holding the PLC module and additional modules for connection to the devices.
In contrast to this is the idea of distributed control. In this case there is not just one processor dealing with all of the system. The overall system is divided up into local processing modules which can read and set their own attached devices/sensors. Each different module can specialise in a particular type of device: for example, motor control, digital input/output, analogue measurement, relay switching etc etc However, each module must have some general guiding control which coordinates the operation of all of the modules in a given system. This means that there must be communication between them. This can take many forms but some of the simplest and most reliable are those using serial multi-drop protocols such as RS485. This has the convenience of requiring just two wires to link together all modules in a multi-module system. It should be noted that the ability to have separate modules linked only be a pair of wires can greatly reduce the overall wiring effort in a control system since the modules can be placed near to their own devices. The guiding control can be provided by a Master Controller which has the ability to communicate with all of the modules in such a system. Although it may seem that taking this approach to distributed control has just added an extra layer of complexity to a simple control system, it is the separation of the housekeeping processing to each of the individual module processors that makes it very efficient and generally easier to program and maintain.
For example: If the PLC processor needed to make a measurement of a temperature using one of its attached sensors it would need to initiate the analogue to digital conversion of the raw input signal before using the result in its main job of deciding what to do at such and such a temperature. When doing the same thing using a dedicated analogue input module the Master Controller can simply request the current temperature from the module using the comms channel. The analogue module would carry out the A/D conversion automatically in the background. Similarly, a stepper motor requires a special sequence of pulses to each of its phase coils to make it move in a particular direction at a particular speed. With a separate stepper motor controller it would simply require the master to send a command telling it to take so many steps at such and such a speed leaving the modules local processor to take care of the correct pulse sequence generation.
Another advantage in distributed control is the ability to have the modules separated by quite large distances without having to worry about cable lengths and associated power distribution problems. For example: To operate a large motor requiring large currents at a long distance from the controller (eg 1Km) would require expensive cable to prevent voltage drops between the supply and the motor. The local controller option means that the motor power supply can be situated exactly where it is needed; close to the motor and controller.
Ouch, my brain hurts, time to refuel
Peace
Once the PLC has been programmed with the particular requirements of the application and it has been connected to all its inputs and outputs , it is ready to control. The PLC would typically repeat the following loop continuously as it performs its tasks .
1. Read all Inputs
2. Determine New Outputs based on current state and current inputs
3. Set the New Outputs
All processing needed to be done in carrying out this loop would be done by the PLC ‟s own local processor. All wiring to and from the sensors and controlled devices would also be routed to somewhere near the PLC‟s processor. Typically this would be in a cabinet fitted with DIN rails holding the PLC module and additional modules for connection to the devices.
In contrast to this is the idea of distributed control. In this case there is not just one processor dealing with all of the system. The overall system is divided up into local processing modules which can read and set their own attached devices/sensors. Each different module can specialise in a particular type of device: for example, motor control, digital input/output, analogue measurement, relay switching etc etc However, each module must have some general guiding control which coordinates the operation of all of the modules in a given system. This means that there must be communication between them. This can take many forms but some of the simplest and most reliable are those using serial multi-drop protocols such as RS485. This has the convenience of requiring just two wires to link together all modules in a multi-module system. It should be noted that the ability to have separate modules linked only be a pair of wires can greatly reduce the overall wiring effort in a control system since the modules can be placed near to their own devices. The guiding control can be provided by a Master Controller which has the ability to communicate with all of the modules in such a system. Although it may seem that taking this approach to distributed control has just added an extra layer of complexity to a simple control system, it is the separation of the housekeeping processing to each of the individual module processors that makes it very efficient and generally easier to program and maintain.
For example: If the PLC processor needed to make a measurement of a temperature using one of its attached sensors it would need to initiate the analogue to digital conversion of the raw input signal before using the result in its main job of deciding what to do at such and such a temperature. When doing the same thing using a dedicated analogue input module the Master Controller can simply request the current temperature from the module using the comms channel. The analogue module would carry out the A/D conversion automatically in the background. Similarly, a stepper motor requires a special sequence of pulses to each of its phase coils to make it move in a particular direction at a particular speed. With a separate stepper motor controller it would simply require the master to send a command telling it to take so many steps at such and such a speed leaving the modules local processor to take care of the correct pulse sequence generation.
Another advantage in distributed control is the ability to have the modules separated by quite large distances without having to worry about cable lengths and associated power distribution problems. For example: To operate a large motor requiring large currents at a long distance from the controller (eg 1Km) would require expensive cable to prevent voltage drops between the supply and the motor. The local controller option means that the motor power supply can be situated exactly where it is needed; close to the motor and controller.
Ouch, my brain hurts, time to refuel
Peace
Hulk Nugs
Well-Known Member
dam you guys are hardcore techs ..... i would love to setup a computer controlled room, was looking into one and found this IntelliClimate Intelligent Climate & Grow Room Control but no way i have that much money they have allot of different things from that company like water control and feeding to i believe its called a electronic doser gives the plants there water .........SOG .... has some of there equipment but dam you guys are actually building your own shit my hats off to you gents!!!! I hooked up a cam in my rooms just playing around might make it permanent later we will see. Keep it up !!!!!!!!!