Open Source Mash Computer?

mattreba · 01-07-2009, 07:55 PM

I see a lot of people going after control systems each in their own unique way. It's very homebrew-like but I'm thinking there may be an opportunity for a few of us to get together and develop an Arduino or similar self-contained controller that anyone could build for a relatively low cost.

I have to admit, I considered developing and selling such a solution but UL listing and potential liability scared me away from the idea. Instead I'm thinking we could develop the code and provide a walkthrough for anyone to attempt at their own risk.

I think a device could be built for close to $125 including:
Arduino Pro Mini 5V $20
USB Cable $15
20x4 Serial LCD $35
(2) SSRs $25
(2) Temp Sensors LM34 $10
Project box, LEDs, switches: $20

Some sketches of screens I'm invisioning:

brauhausjoe · 01-08-2009, 01:36 AM

I would volunteer as a tester

**cyberbackpacker** · 01-08-2009, 05:44 PM

Uhh... X2!!

Mattreba, this is a fantastic idea, and for those of us with zero coding ability, would be a godsend.

jcdillin · 01-08-2009, 05:48 PM

I haven't done much coding with arduino but i've done a ton with Picbasic pro and microchips. I've also done alot of circuit board design and I have all the stuff to make boards at home. So if I can be of any help i'd be happy to.

nvr2low · 01-08-2009, 05:54 PM

i don't do code but im IPC certifed to solder. i have a lab i can build about anything electronic in, but i dont have the ability to etch boards. if i can be of any help let me know.

**pompeiisneaks** · 01-08-2009, 06:07 PM

I'm an open source geek, I've been using Linux for near 15 yrs... I've done a decent amount of perl coding, and know C, but have never done any device level coding. I have a general knowledge of how it works, but not a detailed level idea. I'm interested in helping, I think it would be fun/cool, etc. I don't know much about the arduino though, have never used it or seen it... I'll do a little reading on it.

~Phil

98EXL · 01-08-2009, 06:11 PM

/subscribed

Shockerengr · 01-08-2009, 06:59 PM

i'm in the process of building one of these with a pretty similar layout...only mines gas fired.

i haven't gone very far into controller development yet, but the cart itself is nearing completion and then i'll start on the electronics.

i'm happy to share my results when i have them

**kladue** · 01-08-2009, 07:01 PM

Which programming language will be used for code development?, might have some usefull code from the phase 2 brewery control system, which is built around Opto 22 I/O hardware using Java.

**pompeiisneaks** · 01-08-2009, 07:25 PM

From what I've read they have an IDE that works around c c++ but since its open source, they may also have some java hooks as well. I've been doing a little reading today but working so I can't focus on it too much.

~Phil