Ethernet IO

Ethernet IO capability is a cheap and flexible way to add digital and analogue inputs or outputs to a home automation system. The Ethernet interface means that they can be located anywhere with a network connection and power supply. It also means that they expose a nice easy to use interface, the using HTTP protocol. Many also support more advanced interfaces and protocols and most also support on-board processing and intelligence. This makes them flexible and easy to integrate into existing systems like our Home Control System (HCS).

Suppliers

Audon Netiom

Audon are UK based and sell the NET-IOM Ethernet/Web I/O Board for £99. The device has 4 analogue inputs, 16 digital inputs - optional opto inputs, 16 digital open transistor outputs (with an optional relay board), a serial port with programmable baud rate and an HTTP server. Each port is exposed via a 10-way connector and they sell optically isolated input and relay output boards that simply plug into it.

Hobby Engineering

Hobby Engineering are US based and sell the Ethernet Digital Interface Module - Ether I/O 24 R for $129 (+ taxes and P&P). The device has three 8-bit ports that can be configured as input or outputs. Each port is exposed via a 10-way connector and they sell a number of interface boards that simply plug into it.

Further Reading

• Our Ethernet IO project.