DZ + Android: Early Access: Overseer

HCC Overseer is available for test drive upon request.

UPDATE: Not anymore.

DZ + Android: Working Installation in 267 grams

One TMP36 and two LM34 sensors, Futaba S3003 "standard" servo, LEDs instead of HVAC relays. On the phone, the HCC Remote app is running, with raw value from TMP36 currently displayed.

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Who Needs A Thermostat?

I've been pondering about this question for a long, long time - starting in about 2001 when the only way to control DZ available was a debug panel, and last time in an essay about SWMBO Compliance Certification (Squeezebox is still a good candidate), but it seems that there's been a new development that might if not put an end to the fruitless search, then significantly widen the options available.

I'm talking about Android.

It remains to be seen how viable the platform is and how many hardware manufactures will jump on the bandwagon. But for now - having worked on different Google APIs (Checkout and Calendar in particular) I can say that it's sure going to be a hell of a fun ride, and I'm about to get busy installing the Android SDK and tinkering with it to see how well can a user interface for a HVAC system work on a cell phone.

Now, who needs a thermostat on the wall, really?

SketchUp + HVAC-CALC, part 3

(part 1)
(part 2)

Now, Official Google SketchUp blog reports that the beta version is available for download.

Hurry before they change their mind.

SketchUp Sketches: DZ Testbed

This is a contraption that can be used to test the zoning controller functionality and operation. As the moment of writing (the image above is live, so is the link) it is just a rough draft (yeah, and it's 2:30AM), but I hope you get the idea. Plug heat sources (electric bulbs will do) into big holes. Plug temperature sensors into small holes. Connect the servos to DZ output. Connect fans to DZ output. Switch it on and watch it go crazy.

Four servos may represent up to four zones.
Four fans may represent up to four HVAC units.
Dimmers may be used to simulate variable heat load.
The divider between two middle fans is missing intentionally.
All sizes in the model (fans, servos, planes) are true and correct.

Link to the model page