[Lvlug] Interfacing Linux to the world

[Randy Kramer]

Mark,

I have some thoughts of computerizing the firing controls on my coal
fired boiler.  I'll have to go look for the exact I/O count, but it's
approximately this:

4 analog inputs (temperature -- room, outside, boiler water, boiler
"flame"))
1 analog output (future -- possible variable speed control of the
combustion blower)
10-12 digital inputs, mostly to sense status in 120 VAC circuits --
including two to sense potable hot water temperature by monitoring the
thermostats in the electric hot water heater)
4-6 digital outputs, to control things like the combustion blower, ash
pusher, zone valves (zone valves are 24 VAC and *might* be driven
directly, others are 120VAC, and I may need an interposing relay for
current draw)

Looked for boards about two years ago, didn't find what I wanted,
project is on the back burner (for several reasons), but if you see some
inexpensive boards, kits, or alternate solutions, please let me know.

regards,
Randy Kramer

Mark wrote:
> Linc-
> 
>   When you and I were talking in the car you made a quick mention of wanting
> a bit of hardware that would allow you to collect information in a simple
> manner.  I don't recall what you said exactly but what I am hoping is to
> maybe get enough information from you to maybe assemble a device to your
> specs.
> 
>   So to start maybe you could give me a high level description of your idea
> and then we can work together to nail down the specifics. This follows along
> the lines of a project I have wanted to do for some time and I've even
> collected some of the parts I would need. But what I've been planning is to
> include every feature in the known universe and so have never gotten started.
> 
>   Your input could be exactly what I need to start at a reasonable point and
> then develop the project in steps.