My goal this year is to build a wireless Internet controlled thermostat using an Arduino based board and the One Wire IC’s as sensors. I would like to be able to control my thermostat with my IPhone from any anywhere in the world. I have just ordered the Yellow Jacket from AsyncLabs which is basically an Arduino mini with wireless 802.11b wireless connectivity and a couple of the DS18B20 1-Wire digital temperature sensor from Maxim IC. The Yellow jacket is small enough to fit into a project box that could be powered and mounted in place of a regular thermostat on the wall. The control part would be through my wireless router via the Internet.
I’m going to need a lot of help because I’m ok when it comes to the hardware part but the software side is where I will need lots of help. Hopefully others here would like to make this kind of project or know of other projects that are similar to get ideas and examples. I’m going to make it a point to keep at least weekly update of my progress and any help would be greatly appreciated.
More fun to build than buy, but just wanted to make sure you know there are some commercially availble ($$$), and with WiFi.
I’d start with an Arduino with the ethernet interface and a working TCP/IP stack.
Or a WizNet 812MJ ethernet with onboard TCP/IP.
Or a ConnectOne module you connect to via a serial port and it goes to WiFi.
Getting the HVAC control wires right, and the rules for compressor/motor cycling right, and the temperature hysteresis correct, and the heat pump rules, etc. is daunting. But if you have a simple forced air furnace, no A/C, it’s easier.
Thank you for the reply. I have seen some available but they are pricy $350 and up. What is kind of ironic is that I work for a company that is very well known for thermostats but they don’t even make a thermostat that can be monitored and controlled from the internet. Plus like you said more fun and I’m hoping to learn along the way. I will check out your hardware suggestions and I do have the air/heat/ fan type of thermostat so the forum link will come in handy. Thank you again.