Leak detector / auto dialer system

[Kep]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12427045#post12427045 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by jimwat
If you wanted to set up something to send you an email, you could do it for a little over $100 using X10 modules (and a PC with Internet access, and some freeware).

You wouldn't want to use any X10 technology since the probability of an accident with the tank is higher when the power goes out. Of course, wouldn't you know it, PLCs don't work if the AC is out!

 

[das75]

My PLC is 12VDC (with AC charger/regulator).

 

[Kep]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12429937#post12429937 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by das75
My PLC is 12VDC (with AC charger/regulator).

If there is no AC voltage on the line how does it communicate? And what does it communicate to? Your router/switch will be shut down and if not, your modem will be. Maybe I'm wrong, but I don't see how a PLC can be effective during power outages.

 

[das75]

With something like this with a 12VDC phone modem. And at work for some sites put these and a router on a small UPS to maintain network comm.

 

[jimwat]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12428944#post12428944 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Kep
You wouldn't want to use any X10 technology since the probability of an accident with the tank is higher when the power goes out. Of course, wouldn't you know it, PLCs don't work if the AC is out!

If the PC were running on a UPS the X10 software could probably also be set to monitor the power. However, I can not think of any way to get a leak alert using X10 when the AC is out.

BTW - the X10 signal does not need the AC and only requires your home electrical wiring. However, most X10 devices that send/receive the signals do require AC power.

 

[Kep]

Ya, you could rig up a UPC with X-10 and UPC on a computer that is on 24/7, but it seems that a cellphone connected dialer with a leak sensor is still the cheapest and least complicated solution.

I just don't know where to find an autodialer that calls out on a cellphone to another cellphone.

 

[jimwat]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12433198#post12433198 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Kep
but it seems that a cellphone connected dialer with a leak sensor is still the cheapest and least complicated solution.

Least complicated...maybe. Cheapest??...TBD

 

[seanm001]

Joseph Weatherson uses the Sensaphone 1104 in his TOTM set-up. You know it's got to be good if it's part of a TOTM system.

Sensaphone has several different models with differing levels of protection and different options. The Skymetry option is made for wireless applications.

 

[Kep]

Here is something that might work...

http://www.tiptemp.com/Product.aspx?ProductID=21969

Not the ideal product, but at least there is a clue as to how to do it.

 

[Kep]

Kind of a ghetto page, and who knows exactly what they are selling, but:

http://homepage.ntlworld.com/jackcollins/html/phone_alert.html

 

[jimwat]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12434493#post12434493 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Kep
Here is something that might work...

http://www.tiptemp.com/Product.aspx?ProductID=21969

Not the ideal product, but at least there is a clue as to how to do it.

If money is not an issue, all of the equipment needed is available.

Cell Socket - $80
Leak Detector with autodialer - $75
UPS (for CS) - $40
Extra Cell line - $10 (monthly)

I'm guessing that the expense may be prohibitive.

 

[Kep]

Well, that price is pretty decent to be honest. When comparing to the equipment we buy such as ph controllers, chillers, and monitor probes/meters (safety devices). This setup would fall into that same price range...

Note: The cell service doesn't have to be monthly....there are "pay as you go" plans that are pretty cheap with no monthly fee. I'd have to dig through the maze of cellular phone websites and have the small print magnifying glass out, but I'm sure someone has a proper plan.

What do you define as a "Cell Socket"? I can't find anything online that resembles what you are talking about.

 

[Kep]

Alright I see what you are talking about - a cellphone docking station that has a land line input. Usually used to act as an additional phone line at the home?

I wonder if that interface would work with an autodialer? In a normal cell phone docking unit the phone doesn't receive call instructions from the phone line....or am I just not familiar enough with the technology?