IRBlaster.info's Smart Sockets Turn to RS232 Connections for Local, Wired Remote Control
Eschewing the usual Wi-Fi or, indeed, infrared control for a classic wired RS232 serial cable, IRBlaster.info's sockets support up to 10A.
IRBlaster.info might be best known for its infrared emitter and receiver accessories, but its latest design relies instead upon wires for remote control of mains power: an RS232-controlled power socket.
"Sometimes you need to switch on/off an AC load with a simple RS232 command," the company writes of its new design. "The market is full of Wi-Fi based power control, but what if this is overkill? What if WiFi is not available, but a local microcontroller is?
"When our customer requested this part we found the easiest solution was to modify an existing remote relay controlled outlet to accept commands from a real RS232 connector. Upon application of utility power the device will energise the socket and turn the switch LED RED to indicate power is ON. Power may also be turned on or off by sending RS232 commands through the DB9 port at 115200 BPS, N81."
The resulting gadget, which includes a power cable to link the remote control outlet to an existing power outlet, supports up to 10A or 2.2kW combined load on its two sockets. As standard, it includes a female DB9 RS232 cable; for projects where a controlling terminal has no RS232 compatibility, a customized version with a USB-to-RS232 adapter can be requested. The firmware, meanwhile, can be upgraded via the same serial port as accepts the ON and OFF commands.
As well as the two-gang metal variant, a single-socket plastic version has been designed using a pass-through plug system. More details on both can be found on the IRBlaster.info website, while the metal-boxed two-gang variant is up for sale now on Tindie for $34.