skypehomeautomation.docVIP

Skype Home Automation Richard DavisSoftware Design Engineer at SharpLogic Software The Skype Home Automation project demonstrates how you can use an instant messaging application to communicate with a home server for the purposes of automation and monitoring. In this example project we will do things such as monitor remote temperature and light, control an instance of Windows Media Player, output the volume of the computer using LEDs, provide notifications to remote users when sensor events occur, and even turn a computer fan on and off. In this article we will take a tour of the Skype Home Automation project: how to setup the hardware and software, how to issue commands to the automation server using a Skype client, and even how to create and add new automation plug-ins to extend the existing functionality. Hardware Requirements The components listed below are needed in order to fully replicate the functionality described in this article: 8/8/8 Interface Kit. / Product ID: 1013 Note: Includes 6-foot USB cable. Temperature Sensor. / Product ID: 1114 LED. / Qty: 4 Product ID: 91322 Force Sensor. / Product ID: 1106 Touch Sensor. / Product ID: 1110 Light Sensor. / Product ID: 1105 12Volt Computer Fan (DC powered). / Product ID: 91601 Note: an old computer fan from home will work just fine (if 12Volt). Power MOSFET transistor. Visit your local electronics store for a MOSFET transistor that meets the following characteristics: V(DS): 60 Volts V(GS): +/-20 Volts We used a STMicroelectronics P16NF06. An IRF510 from RadioShack would be a good substitute. 9V Battery (Phidget 8/8/8 digital output is not enough to power 12V DC fan). 9V Battery Connector. Local electronics store. In addition to the hardware above, you will need some spare wire for connecting the digital output of the Phidgets Interface Kit to the Power MOSFET. Other tools that you may need include scissors or wire cutters and a small Phillips (flat-head) screwdriver for securing wires to t