Newbie Help on home project!

Hi guys,

Just some help on locating the right products and software.

I am a developer in ASP, .net and the like what i would like to do is create a web page that runs off of my Windows server in my house to manage some simple functions (at first getting more complicated as i get more into it!) two main ones are, My Security alarm to send me a SMS/email when it has been triggered, and for me to attach a motor to a roof window so it can open and close automatically.

I would like some advice on which is the best product to buy and as far as anyone knows can I connect the product to a windows server and then send commands via ASP or .net via the IIS service.

Thanks

Nik

Hi there.

Here’s a rather simple solution that you can work on:

  • Get a velleman USB interface card, like K8055 or K8061 (already mounted interfaces are VM110 and VM140 respectively).

  • With every action you command via web, generate an empty file with a specific name (on the server).

  • Then use AutoIt on the server as well (free BASIC-like scripting language) to detect the presence of those files, execute the related actions and then, after completion, delete the file.

Remarks:

  • You would probably need also a 12VDC power supply and some relays.
  • I suggested those interfaces because whatever you need in the future for your project, they’ll most probably be the solution.
  • autoitscript.com

I’d be willing to help you code what you need in terms of controlling the card via AutoIt (and if you look at the code then, you’ll understand it in no time, because it’s really straightforward), taking in account that I can’t hide my personal interest on getting a similar web interface at my place as well :slight_smile:

In regard to the compatibility, I’ve tested the K8055 in Windows Server 2003 and it did fine. I’m also testing the K8061 in the near future :slight_smile:

Regards,
footswitch