Re: Suggestions for X10/Automation Widgets

[nobody@xxxxxxxxxxxx (Dave Houston)]

I haven't actually gotten samples to play with but I don't think calibration
is a problem. The manufacturer says each sensor is fully precision
calibrated at the factory before shipment.

The current sensors output a ratiometric analog voltage (0-5V) that is
proportional to the current through them. A µC need only sample that and the
voltage a few thousand times per second to calculate instantaneous real
power. An 8-pin PIC12F675 or PIC12F683 would probably be sufficient. It's
mostly a matter of deciding what units of measure make the most sense
(joules, watt-hours, watt-evers) and developing an algorithm and protocol.

I had considered wireless versions but that gets into FCC issues. PLC makes
more sense.

"Jeff Volp" <JeffVolp@xxxxxxx> wrote:

>> "Jeff Volp" <JeffVolp@xxxxxxx> wrote:
>
>That does sound like a good idea, but calibration might be tough.  Certainly
>a protocol could be developed to replace lost messages.
>
>Along the same lines, something I would find useful is a light ON monitor -
>perhaps a simple EagleEye mod that would send out a periodic lighting
>status.  I had planned to do this with hard-wired current sensors for
>basement lights.  But a simple stick-on module would certainly be easier.
>
>Thanks to all who have given suggestions both here and via e-mail.
>Hopefully, I will be able to turn some of them into reality in the coming
>months.
>
>Jeff
>