bp@nyit.UUCP (Bruce Perens) (10/28/85)
I've bought a `Plug-N'-Power' controller from the local Radio Shack Computer Center. The Plug-N'-Power controller is a CoCo peripheral that controls remote-control switches similar to (or identical to?) the popular BSR units. The Plug-N'-Power is connected to the cassette port of the CoCo, and is programmed via cartrige software that runs in the CoCo. A weekly schedule of events is programmed into the controller, and it can then be disconnected from the CoCo, and will operate remote-control switches following the programmed schedule, without the CoCo's assistance. The Plug-N'-Power also contains a battery-backed-up clock that is accessible to the CoCo. There is a copyright notice from `Pico Electronics' in the instruction book, I guess that's who designed the controller. Unfortunately, Radio Shack has not included any information on how to use the Plug-N'-Power without the canned ROM application. This is unfortunate, as many potential uses of the hardware are not addressed by the canned software. I can disassemble the ROM software and document how to program the controller if none of you have already done so. I can even ask Radio Shack for assistance, but I don't know if I'd get it. I'll write an OS-9 driver for the controller once I know what to send it. I could use some assistance in the following areas: 1. Has anyone documented how to program the Plug-N'-Power controller without the canned ROM application? 2. Does anyone have a program that copies memory from a ROM cartrige in a Multi-Pak slot to disk? It would probably have to run under RS-DOS. I can write one of these or buy the commercial `Multi-Pak-Crak' if none of you have freeware to do this. Bob Larson has already helped by posting his disassembler. Thanks, Bob! Bruce Perens NYIT Computer Graphics Laboratory decvax!philabs!nyit!bp allegra!sbcs!nyit!bp 516-686-7644
steve@wlbr.UUCP (Steve Childress) (11/06/85)
I too am interested in using computers in home control systems...
Anyone else?
I'm planning to use my Apple II w/OS9 on the 6809 coprocessor. The
Apple will be used 'cause it is low power. I have lots of Levitron/BSR
controllers now, and 7 sprinkler valves, garage door, spa pump, spa
heater, and Heathkit Weather Station. (The latter enables me to
postpone watering if the wind is blowing).
A friend has his computer sending BSR commands via a one-bit I/O
port and serial data generating software. This one-bit port drives
a BSR unltrasonic controller via a simple opto-isolator.
Any other net groups I should include in this discussion?
Regards,
Steve Childress
Eaton IMS R&D Group MS 43
31717 La Tienda Drive
Westlake Village, CA 91360
(818) 889-2211 X2148
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or ...wlbr!wlbreng1!steve