[mythtv-users] Home Automation + MythTV/Linux

[Jason Antman]

Mitch,

I've done a bit of automation work lately, replacing the thermostat in 
my apartment with a box running CentOS (http://tuxostat.jasonantman.com/).

In terms of hardware, you essentially have two ways to go - a stock 
system with an interface (something like X10) or various levels of 
custom hardware (from an off-the-shelf USB or serial relay board to a 
custom-fabricated PCB and microcontroller). I used the Phidgets 0/0/4 
4-output USB relay board 
(http://www.phidgets.com/products.php?product_id=1014) for my project, 
though I wouldn't recommend it, given the relatively high cost for a 
unit with a pretty complex API (I would have overwhelmingly preferred 
something with a simple ASCII command set). On the other hand, though, 
it's one of the few easy-to-use relay boards out there. I have a few 
links related to interfacing Linux boxes to stuff in the real world at: 
http://delicious.com/jantman/realworldcontrol

As to serial->USB adapters, I'd definitely check the reviews. I've come 
by a LOT that don't work right under Linux even though they say they're 
supported, or ones that have serious issues with *real* RS232 hardware, 
though they say they support it. Personally, I've found that adapters 
based on the Prolific 2303 (pl2303 driver) chipset work well.

If you want to go the X10 route, I believe the best interface under 
Linux is the "firecracker". You'd have a little less customizability and 
fewer options than custom hardware (I don't know if X10 has the ability 
to actually check output state like a relay board would, as opposed to 
having to store state locally) but for simple logistics (using plug-in 
modules as opposed to having to run a bunch of wires around the room) 
X10 probably wins out.

-Jason

PS - I've given this a lot of thought, and will probably implement a 
good automation system around this time next year when I move into a new 
apartment. My plans are to use some sort of embedded computer as the 
master controller for the non-home theater stuff (i.e. anything not 
controlled over IR - the lights, etc.) that will communicate with the 
MythTV box via TCP/IP (probably remote SSH commands). For the physical 
control, my ideal idea is to use modules that plug in between the 
appliances/lights and wall outlet, which contain a latching relay 
switched via a low-voltage solid state relay, which will be in turn 
driven by some simple one-cable bus system, perhaps something like 
Dallas Semi/Maxim 1-Wire. The basic idea is to be able to run 2 
4-conductor phone cables - one around each side of the room - and have 
little "dongles" or boxes hook in-line with the cable and provide 
switched power. Essentially wired X10, but with everything hooked up to 
one cable, and with opto-isolators to check the actual output of the relay.

Mitch Gore wrote:
>>> How I Integrated some X10 Home Automation into MythBuntu
>>> http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?p=4733977#post4733977
>>>
>>> _______________________________________________
>>>       
>> I have looked at LinuxMCE but i hate the entire idea of using a out of the box solution and reformate my server.  Plus I dont want or need all that extra crap put into that.  I just want some simple scripts i can run to do stuff.
>>
>> Gerry, that looks very promising.
>>
>> Thanks!
>> Mitchell
>>     
>
> I dont have a Serial port on my Asus board unless i buy a Serial
> bracket to connect to the board header.  According to the HEYU FAQ you
> can use a USB->serial adapter which i can get for 3 bucks on ebay:
>
>
> Q: My computer doesn't have RS232 serial ports, only USB ports.  Can
>    I use a USB-Serial adapter?
>
> A: Yes, provided that your OS has kernel drivers for the specific adapter.
>
> So, I assume CentOS/Fedora (Going to move to cent on my next system
> built will work right?
>
> Thanks,
> Mitchell
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