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BEAM prototype. Request to be a beta tester here.

Started by Kalle, January 25, 2016, 03:16:31 AM

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Kalle

So far I can say, the hardware and the basic firmware for the "BeamSphere" is ready, now we near to order the PCB boards.
Update 23.04.2016:

The costs for a prototyping "BeamSphere", full assembled (IR/RF) is 35 EUR + 5 EUR shipping (international).

THE BETATESTING is now completed - there is no more BEAM for betatester available.


The regular price for the BeamSphere is now 50 EUR + 5 EUR shipping (international)

Note added by jitterjames:
This project is mostly "for fun" and if Kalle decides it is no longer fun to build and ship these units then he has the right to stop selling them at any time!

Here are the hard- and software overview at the moment:


Hardware:
Sphere size 80mm, color white
1x USB micro connector (for power supply)
1x 3.5mm mono connectors for external IR-Emitters (to control devices inside a furniture)
9x controllable RGB-LED (WS2812b)arranged on the PCB board in a circle (the LEDs will give you a feedback for all states of the BeamSphere and can be disabled if not needed "stealth mode")
2x IR-Emitters to blast IR signals in a wide angle
1x IR-Receiver to learn IR codes
1x RF-Transmitter (*315/433MHz) to send RF signals for a lot of available devices like light switches and sockets
(*note it is possible to install both transmitter chips in the BEAM, but this will cost 5 EUR extra, because it need some work to solder it)
1x RF-Receiver (**315/433MHz Superheterodyne) to learn RF signals from remotes
(**note the RF frequency must be specified when you order.  It can be installed with either chip but not both!)

1x Microcontroller with WiFi (b/g/n)
1x 3 PIN connector to mount a PIR sensor on the PCB (optional)



Software features (status 25.01.2016):
A web based GUI to setup the Network for your needs (SSID,Password, Shpere name, Sphere IP, etc.).
OTA (over the air) upgradeable firmware (the firmware can be easy updated directly in the Sphere-GUI by selecting a given file over WiFi)
Learn-GUI to learn and send IR/RF codes
Learn IR and RF codes in Raw format (learning raw RF codes requires VoxCommando and the Beam plugin)
Color picker to set the BEAM color for using it as moodlight
Send IR codes as hex (Samsung, Sony, NEC/LG) or in GC-iTache format (thousands of device codes available)
Send UDP mesages (events) to communicate with VoxCommando - for example: The BeamSphere can send a learned code with protocol and code to VoxCommando and in this way the code can be stored automatically in a Maptable or you can trigger a VC command with any button on your remote - the UDP send function can be deactivated if not needed.
You can use VoxCommando to control to send a IR/RF code by voice or any remote software like NetIO, iRule or other software which can send HTTP to build your own remote on a tablet or mobile


You have also the option to buy the unassembled board with- or without the Sphere or maybe you do not need the RF modules or RGB LEDs or maybe you need some external IR emitters - everything is possible.
Feel free to ask for the costs.


But one thing: This device is handmade (DIY project) and not a china mass production with thousands of devices, but this means the fit and finish is not perfect  ;)

If you are interested in this equipment, please let us know , so we can plan the order of pieces (PCB boards and parts).


I attached some pictures of the GUI


@Dave and James: Maybe I've forget some features or other things - so feel free to complete this post
***********  get excited and make things  **********

mexicanto

I am very interested in the module, do you have a price table/list ?

thank you Kalle

Foggy

Hi Kalle,

Please put my name on the list.

Best wishes.

James.

sainf


bnikos83



jitterjames

#6
Please note that Kalle has updated some information in the first post at the top of this thread including the cost for early adopter / beta testers.

I'm working on some new features that will allow this device to be set to any colour.  So for now this device can be seen as being a combination of the following devices:

- An itach flex (wifi IR learning and sending powered by a USB cable)
- A low power Philips Hue "Go" in the form of a sphere.
- A UUIRT (because it can receive IR and generate events in VC so you can use any remote to trigger macros).
- Learn and send RF signals for controlling certain switches and similar RF equipment.  Similar to "Broadlink pro" but faster without need of internet connection.

And for now I think it's cheaper than any of these device by itself!

For me this is a kind of dream device.   8)

...And even though it's hand-made the latest prototype by Kalle looks fantastic.  I'm hoping he will be able to upload some decent photos soon.



Haddood

it seems you guys did an incredible job :clap ... however you forget a PayPal or something to be able to send you the money (BTW I am interested in one without the sphere)

and you should think seriously about putting it on Kickstarter or Indiegogo, all that is missing an app to control it for people without VC, maybe you'll get enough money to stop your work and dedicate to developing VC :P
When Voice command gets tough, use hand gestures

Kalle

#8
To control the blaster or send and learn codes, VC is not explicit needed but it works fantastic together. There are some apps availabe to send http requests like NetIO or iRule. It is also possible to create your own remote with a webpage.

I will send the PayPal data together with the confirmation of the order  ;)
***********  get excited and make things  **********

mexicanto

Hi Kalle,
I will need a couple of those, please
let me know when they are ready

Thank you

multimedia


Kalle

#11
Hi Multimedia and welcome to the VC Forum.


I've already parts for the first 5 BeamSphere and have already start to assemble. The only missing part is the 315MHz RF Receiver/Transmitter for North America. If you live in Europe (433MHz RF) or you did not need the 315MHz stuff, you can place your order here. I think I can start to ship the beam sphere next week.
***********  get excited and make things  **********

mr.niki

can describe in detail what kind of device.
its possibilities. (What is it?)
I have translated the entire forum but could not fully understand what it is
If it is possible it will be interested to send in Russian?
For some reason, I'm sure that will interest
Sorry for the language translator Google


mr.niki

is it possible to order the BEAM delivery in Russia
And if so, how many all together with the shipment will cost
and how to pay