I'm thinking the horse is out of the barn here...GF is releasing a simple plug and play controller upgrade that will do what most people here want/care about - if they choose to upgrade at all. Could this arduino unit be cheaper and more easily controllable than the GF unit? Possibly more tweakable but at the end if the day, it will boil down to price/timing and I know where my money's going. Not wanting to be a party pooper though! :-0
Hi
I didn't run a full feature comparison with the new controller upgrade from GF (I see just some video preview) and for sure I expect they did a great job either on the HW and the SW also become they come after a series of other aftermarket controllers...so they have time to study
In term of feature and functions I suggest to have a look to SmartPID web site and also to some video done with simulator that provide you full picture on how the brewing process has been automated in all details.. I think there are some feature like data logging either via USB or via web/smartphone, recipe management etc.. that could make the difference
SamrtPID moreover is no just brewing process automation...is a multi-application platform and you can install an run a smart thermostat for thermostatic control of you fermentation chamber etc. etc..
SmartPID is not and arduino DIY kit is a ready made PRODUCT..It has been designed by a maker and diy enthusiast for the maker and homebrewer community so by definition is tweak and programmable and is off course 100% arduino compatible
About cost...working hard with manufacturer to kee it affordable for consumer and DIY market...It will no cheap as STC1000 but it will not cost a fortune like Siemens PLC
enjoy
arzaman