Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

g'day Bundy, err which site

oh shit.....sorry rofl

http://splatco.com/controllers.htm

Sorry guys, i know i'm full of promises, but its coming to you throu me from my mate.......bottle necks and all.

Will get onto it ASAP.

Thanks Bundy, will have a look now

no problems Steve, I'm week(s) away from practical but enjoying checking out all the bits for it

Les

I've asked bundy for a list of "things" he want the smart relay to do, and a sub list of "might want to do later"

can you make one up too?

yep

Steve,
my new system minimum requirements for 3 grow beds:

each GB to have a liquid level sensor - 3 digital inputs
solenoid valves on inflow and outflow to divert water flow in succession to each GB - 6 DO's
6 relays rated for 24vac/500mA and mounting pack/rail

External relays and power packs can be sourced locally but if these are easily avalable with the smart relay then that would be my recommendation.


Some general information on solenoid valves - I have been researching these a little, especially after someone mentioned the irrigation "SV" needs 70kPa to operate:
the irrigation SV, when energised, releases the locking mechanism, the water pressure then forces the plunger clear to allow water flow, this pressure is 70kPa minimum ( I think this is equivalent to water height difference of 7 metres - have no idea of pump lph equiv)
it seems that the "SV" sold at "B" stores are of this type.

There is a "direct action" SV which works at zero pressure and am trying to get info/prices on these att

7 meters is correct for 70kpa

direct action will be $$

what about switching pump on and off via flood liquid level?

Or if you are concerned about pump cycles how about using the SV (cheaper) valves to switch pump to a new bed when first one is flooded? Only requirement here is that the pump can supply 70 kpa pressure (and i'm sure they will work to less than this. they are used extensivly as drain solenoids and also the same mechanism as fill solenoids on evap coolers, and some of the double storey houses have shiteful pressure at the roof line.

Ell.........what were your thoughts on the gear at this site?

http://splatco.com/controllers.htm

Knew there was something else I was supposed to do - only one has RTC ( most expensive), looks like it would do the job okay but gonna stick with Steve - probably need some fire retardant handy tho

How much are the smart relays gunna cost us?

will get a definative answer tomorrow.

Cool, was thinkin it would not only do the aqua stuff but do the dishes and make a coffee too..........I guess I'm just a sucker for toys like that, I miss the process control stuff lol

Hi,

Just checked out the site. What are the prices like in AU$ ? How much for the developer kit?

Haven't heard from Steve as yet, eevn though the pricing was due this weekend.

Am about to pick up growbeds 2,3 and 4, and then I'll want to pipe them up with solenoids and start pumping for limited time every 20mins to different growbed.

Karel

Roskar, Steve is about to collar his mate (latest report 30 mins ago)