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| Thread ID: 47219 | 2004-07-19 23:37:00 | Something Different! | B.M. (505) | Press F1 |
| Post ID | Timestamp | Content | User | ||
| 253637 | 2004-07-22 00:10:00 | >Will Monday be too late for the competition Bruce? Nope. Send em in. |
Biggles (121) | ||
| 253638 | 2004-07-22 03:26:00 | Have you got a game port? Or a spare serial port . Either would be less difficult to use than an external modem . (I assume you mean a modem connected somehow to an internal modem) . Without a pair of telephone lines(a rather expensive proposition unless you have a PABX) you need both modems to be capable of working in "leased line" mode . This is usually set with the Hayes code "&L1" . (&L0 is the dialup mode) . Many modern modems don't have the full Hayes set . :-( If you have the options available, just set them both to the same speed, the leasedline mode,and the computer one to"originate" mocde and the beer modem to"answer" mode . (The beer modem will need its settings saved in the powerup setting) . When you have connection, the CD line in the interface plug will go true . That switches between (nominal) 12 volt positive and negative . I can never remember which is true . :D I still like my idea of a couple of wires from the ScrollLock LED . ;-) You could use an optocoupler in series with the LED, feeding a transistor and a relay . |
Graham L (2) | ||
| 253639 | 2004-07-23 02:23:00 | I've had a look at the USB interface, and there is a bit in one of the status registers in the USB controller which will turn the 5V in a port on and off . I am sure it's possible to programme this. I would be surprised if it is easy. :D |
Graham L (2) | ||
| 253640 | 2004-07-23 03:04:00 | The external modem was a drowning man clutching at straws scenario Graham. :) I was just rummaging through my junk boxes, looking for inspiration as much as anything. :( No gamesport Graham but can provide a serial port or USB port or ps/2 Keyboard/Mouse Port. Just a matter of juggling whatever is presently occupying the port we want somewhere else. I’ve even looked through Dicky Smiths catalogue thinking I might find something to turn the kettle on that could be adapted but no luck so far. I’ll just have to keep pouring manually until inspiration strikes! :D Cheers Bob |
B.M. (505) | ||
| 253641 | 2004-07-23 03:05:00 | > However, at the moment we’re still trying to get the > beer to pour electronically. You really need to be looking at a solenoid connected to serial or com port on your PC as I remember getting floodlights to work off a serial port. Having said that I am not an expert in electronics. > Anybody any thoughts on an external modem being > persuaded to operate a relay to operate a solenoid > etc. etc.? ?:| Don't think an external modem will work but have a look here:- http://www.acscontrol.com/ I saw a USB card that may work for you. |
Elephant (599) | ||
| 253642 | 2004-07-23 03:27:00 | Serial port is a doddle . Just flip bit 0 of the modem control register (baseaddr+4 ? from my flakey memory) and the DTR line will change on pin 6 of the connector (both 9&25 pin) . The signal ground is pin 5 on a 9pin, and 7 on a 25 pin connector . The modem would work if you have the right modems, but it's a hell of a long way to go for a beer . ;-) The USB power line might work . I'll have to have a look through the Linux driver code and see if it's reasonable . |
Graham L (2) | ||
| 253643 | 2004-07-23 05:58:00 | Good one Elephant. That site you posted has what I need. A "USB Servo controller" indeed. Only $95 american but I think it had 5 inputs and 8 outputs which means that in the summer one could turn the garden sprinkler on as well without leaving the beer bowser. (even have a selection of beers) (just so the controller was fully utilised!) :D OK, so I'm off to search the net for a local distributor now I know what I need. I think we'll shelve the modem conversion for the moment Graham while we see if we can locate the real deal. :D |
B.M. (505) | ||
| 253644 | 2004-07-23 06:20:00 | So don't forget all the inputs for burglar alarms and the outputs for being able to close the gate and shotgun the person using saltpetre. Won't kill them but maybe could be painful? :-) |
Elephant (599) | ||
| 253645 | 2004-07-23 06:29:00 | > I've had a look at the USB interface, and there is a > bit in one of the status registers in the USB > controller which will turn the 5V in a port on and > off . > > I am sure it's possible to programme this. I > would be surprised if it is easy. :D Hey..... I wasn't asked to program the beast beer dispenser. If I was I would have to ask what size container the said beer was being put into. Should be user interface that says 250ml, 340ml, 600ml up to Giga ml I would think. Please note that I just invented the Giga ml term. Depends on how big your glass is don't it? :-) |
Elephant (599) | ||
| 253646 | 2004-08-05 04:53:00 | Am still awaiting with interest to see a picture of this marvel! Can you oblige yet? Cheers |
Cptn Hotshot (3904) | ||
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