Here is an interesting product that I noticed while scanning a popular electrical catalogue last night. Its a domestic wireless switch which generates its own electricity when a user operates it (kinetic energy); no wires, no batteries. Therefore it can be used just about anywhere, and the normal safety limitations for damp environments don't apply (i.e. kitchens/bathrooms).
What has this got to do with Picaxe?
From what I've read, this is a 433MHz FSK transmitter with a large range of id codes, which produces a very short data burst of maybe just a millisecond or so. Therefore it may be possible to incorporate these switches (not necessarily the receiver) into a 433MHz Picaxe project. Food for thought!
I guess the downside of this technology is that it will increase traffic within the 433MHz band if it becomes widely adopted for domestic wiring. I can see myself using this system (i.e. for its intended use) for security lights, but I wonder how reliable the receivers are, and how much power they consume (life-time costs?).
Information: https://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Technical/DataSheets/Quinetic/Kinetic Controller_Instructions Sheet_final.pdf
What has this got to do with Picaxe?
From what I've read, this is a 433MHz FSK transmitter with a large range of id codes, which produces a very short data burst of maybe just a millisecond or so. Therefore it may be possible to incorporate these switches (not necessarily the receiver) into a 433MHz Picaxe project. Food for thought!
I guess the downside of this technology is that it will increase traffic within the 433MHz band if it becomes widely adopted for domestic wiring. I can see myself using this system (i.e. for its intended use) for security lights, but I wonder how reliable the receivers are, and how much power they consume (life-time costs?).
Information: https://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Technical/DataSheets/Quinetic/Kinetic Controller_Instructions Sheet_final.pdf