Jeepasaurus
Member
Kyle,
Here's another approach for automated irrigation control. Considering you have an Ethernet network in place and as you say you are "Microsoft .NET code monkey" you might consider an Ethernet irrigation controller.
The EtherRain sprinkler valve controller is available at a low cost. This irrigation controller has a direct Ethernet connection, has .NET irrigation control software called OptiRain, that will run on your .NET server (I assume you most likely are running Windows server given the way you describe yourself).
If you don't have Windows server but you have a DSL or Cable Internet connection you can use the LawnCheck irrigation scheduling service. LawnCheck is an Internet irrigation scheduling and control system. If you use LawnCheck you'll have remote access via the Internet without having to open a port on your home network and without the need for DYN dns.
The product name is EtherRain. You can do a search for more information.
This is also a great alternative if you are into water conservation as this approach, both LawnCheck and OptiRain have built in conservation features that are easy to use. The EtherRain controller also has a built-in rain detection input.
Hope this alternative gives you some good ideas.
H2oSaver,
H2oSaver,
Thanks for the suggestions. EtherRain looks like a very practical and cool solution. From the suggestions I think I'm going to use the Elk Relay module. Just run a Cat6 cable to the current controller box so if I do decide to pick up and leave it will be easy to connect everything back up again.
Thanks to everyone for their input.
-Kyle
