Automation...new gear for hydro...

McGuiver

• Feb 4, 2014

• #1

I finally pulled out my Kickstarter project that I backed.

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/netaqua/netaqua-web-enabled-irrigation-controller?ref=search

I picked up a Roslen automation device for a sprinkler system. Since we are in a drought here in California, I won't be using much sprinklers. Some water utilities said they would raise rates 352%. That is crazy. My bill for water is already $100 per month.

Well here is my automation start. It is internet controlled, and has it's own web page locally. Perfect.

I haven't tested it yet, but will let you know how it goes. Supposed to be fully customizable.

http://www.roslen.com

I will be posting more pics tonight when I get it hooked up.

 

impending_bending

• Feb 4, 2014

• #2

I like... A lot

 

queequeg152

• Feb 5, 2014

• #3

buuuuuump. what are you using for sensors?
 
100 bucks a month for water?dizam.  i think my ma pay's every 90 days or so... its like 60-90 bucks... and thats with a 23k gallon pool in the backyard.
 
this pool looses 1/4" of water a day in the summer lol...
 
cant imagine what my ma would pay in canada, lol.

 

McGuiver

• Feb 5, 2014

• #4

I don't have any sensors yet. Yes $100 per month for water is a ripoff. We don't even have a pool. $100 bucks is the baseline. It's because the water districts here are oligopolies. No one else can compete. You pay this or you don't get water. California is the land of high taxes, oh your breathing, cha-ching, tax. Our utility rates are out of control. Before my solar we were paying about $350 per month for electricity too. Now with solar only $225 for the whole year.

Wish I could generate my own water...MacGyver time...back to the lab...

 

McGuiver

• Feb 7, 2014

• #5

Started to clean out my old automation project. It was a PicAxe 18M2.



I have some old DIN rails from an old project that will be reused.



I spoke with Roslen about their controller. It would work, but the timing in not finite enough, and no way to loop the cycles. It is something they are looking into.

I need to get this up and working at least on a temp basis. I will use my PicAxe 18M2. Why? Because it is simple. Even my 8 year old could program.


http://www.picaxe.com

http://www.picaxe.com/Hardware/Starter-Packs/PICAXE-18-Starter-Pack/