real world app

[apburner]

OK I finally figured out a real world application of my own to try. I am a fellow of many hobbies. electronics being only a small part. I also woodwork some and have a large collection oftools in my shop. Sometime I find it hard to get to some of them like my dust collector and air compressor. Well those machines should need nothing from my but a command to come on. so i figure I will build a box with to large solid state relays in them since I have a few in my junk box. I will control these relays with a picaxe 08m. I will put the two in a difficult location to get too. and run a control cable over the ceiling to a location next to my overhead light switch. using 2 push buttons I will connect these to the 08's inputs and when I push the button of the corect one it will turn on either the dust collector or air compressor. I am also going to set up a couple of 500w halogen lights over my scrollsaw and do the same with them. this way I can put the controls in easy access and still put the lights where I need them.

 

[premelec]

not clear on what the PICAXE does - sounds like just a switches will do - perhaps you want to implement Infra Red remote with an 08M... or kill everything when a particular whistle is 'heard'

 

[moxhamj]

Have you looked at the low power RF modules that are $3-4ea and interface directly with a picaxe. Range is about 30-50m so will work fine in a shed.

Edited by - Dr_Acula on 18/05/2007 05:46:42

 

[Michael 2727]

I thought the Real World went out when Metric
came in ? I could be wrong.
Seriously, now.
You have an 08M, IR and the 08M were made for each other, couldn't be simpler.

 

[papaof2]

An alternative when controlling motors remotely is the X10 appliance controller. It uses a mechanical relay with 15 amp capability.

John

 

[apburner]

actually never thought of the IR thing. A TV remote would be really cool.

 

[manuka]

Heartily agree on IR/08M combo, & between Picaxe jobs you can even use the remote for such other purposes as -gasp- controlling your TV!