Re: DMX Controller

["g8kmh" <lehane@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Frank,
Yes they look interesting, although there are a number of PIC based
designs around at a lower cost which mainly use the parallel port and
a kit from Velleman which is USB based for about EUR80-there seem to
be a few others about too. The better ones don't need repetetive
sending of the DMX settings but use bigger PIC's like the 18F452.

The DMX/dimmer card is also worth a look since it drives 'random'
rather than 'zero crossing' solid state relays. At about GBP2.50 for
2A SSR's it makes an 8 channel dimmer for under GBP100 - compare that
to X10 or C-BUS!

There is also an off the shelf 12 channel unit, the DPX12/4 which is
about GBP230. This accepts wires rather than having sockets for the
AC so is ideal for node 0 or node 1 installation. Max load is 43A
which should be plenty.

I've also just got two of the NETIOM modules. These are PIC18F452
based units with Ethernet and 16 I/O lines and 4 A/D. The installed
application is web based but I've just started work on the Microchip
IP stack to add xPL. More when the design is finalised but one of the
design goals is to make it self contained such that it will respond
to its own inputs, as well as xPL control messages. That way the
house doesn't go completely dark if the HAPC falls in a heap :-)

Lehane



--- In ukha_xpl@xxxxxxx, "Frank Mc Alinden" <fmcalind@b...>
wrote:
> Hi All
>          Have came across a serial dmx controller from UK based
Company
> Milford Instruments which looks like it could be easily
xPLled .....Looking
> at the data sheet it doesnt appear that the serial port has to
constantly
> refresh the data ..It also can store up to 60 scenes and scenes  1
to 8 can
> be triggered by manual swich inputs.....cost of unit is 65
pounds....Also an
> 8 way dmx relay board is available.......check it out
> http://www.milinst.com/index.htm
>
>
> Frank