Exterior Home Automation Control

[joe39562]

I purchased an Elk M1 System about 3 years ago when I purchase my home and have been adding things to it ever since. I have security cameras, lighting control, sprinkler control,etc. I've been on this site in the past but never posted before. I wanted to be able to use my automation system from my back patio to see who is at the front door, alarm control, connect to my slingbox to watch tv, and multiple other tasks. I designed and built a computer with 19" touch screen that is up to task. It can handle the heat and rough weather. It turned out so nice that I felt I needed to let others that might appreciate it (since my wife isn't in to this kind of stuff). I tried to post a picture but couldn't due to being a new member. If you search my username on flickr then you can find a picture of it. Please let me have some feedback! Thanks!

 

[beaumeri]

Here's a link to your creation.

joe39562 weather proof touch screen computer

I guess you put with paper sheet on the screen for the picture the hide the display?

 

[joe39562]

I guess you put with paper sheet on the screen for the picture the hide the display?


I had a family picture on the desktop when I took the picture. Nothing a little photoshop cant fix!

 

[Frunple]

Thjis is a weatherproof pc also.

http://cubloc.com/product/06_01cupcp120.php

 

[joe39562]

Thjis is a weatherproof pc also.


Isn't weather proof cause of the air vents all around. Through the wall mount would be difficult with siding even if the face is weather proof. A little on the small side for me for tv viewing/cameras. Mine is 19".

 

[joe39562]

Has anyone else done anything like this or thought about it? I had figured I would have gotten more people interested in this. I'm in the industrial automation sector. My next step is going to be a Labview interface to combine all of my current controls on one display. I would like to indication for my mechanical services such as well pump status, water pressure, septic tank level, electric loading, pool controls, etc. Has anyone done anything this involved? Im sure this will take me years to gradually implement but it should be a fun project.

 

[ufd108]

Seems to me it would make more sense to use a tablet and just carry it back in when not in use. If there is some reason you need a full Windows PC rather than an iPad then by early next year tablets running Windows 7 will be available.

 

[beaumeri]

Seems to me it would make more sense to use a tablet and just carry it back in when not in use. If there is some reason you need a full Windows PC rather than an iPad then by early next year tablets running Windows 7 will be available.

I feel the same way. With Windows 8 on the way and the proficiency of tablets expected I'd rather get a tablet and have full portability. Your project is well done and I would have considered for myself but at this point in time I'll get a tablet instead.

 

[tmbrown97]

Seems to me it would make more sense to use a tablet and just carry it back in when not in use. If there is some reason you need a full Windows PC rather than an iPad then by early next year tablets running Windows 7 will be available.

That's what I do... just use the iPhone or iPad when out back.

When I get the patio covered, I'm going to experiment with a cheap 32" (not weatherproof) and see how long it lasts... considering I can buy 10 for the price of a true outdoor TV.