SCADA software?

[Stoichio]

I'm looking into automating my newest room, I've decided a PLC is the best route. The wiring and ladder logic seem simple enough, I can handle that. But one thing I'd really like to do is log data charts and maybe even send an email to my phone when (not if) I flood something.

So I'm looking at scada/hmi software and my oh my how my mind is blown. I don't know where to begin. I only run linux but contrary to the stereotypical user I don't know anything about building software. I just want something relatively easy to program, and either free or cheap. I mean if it was expensive I'd just go with grotronix or something. Is there anybody out there familiar with PLC's that might be able to point me in the right direction?

I have not purchased a PLC yet because I'd rather find something compatible with my SCADA software selection.

This software looks like I could handle it, but I don't trust windows to run 24/7. The linux box I'll be using to run the program is my secondary computer which stays on 24/7, mostly keeping documents and pandora up for quick access.

 

[sixth6]

What are your goals by introducing this level of automation? How much are you trying to spend?

The linux box is a great start. Do you know how to write bash scripts?

An auduino would work for basic monitoring, just need to add whatever sensors you will be using and implement existing open source code. Then on the linux box have cron check the status every 5-10 minutes and if the values are out of range it sends an email to your number(which you receive as a text). Or have the arduino check and trigger an output high, which the cron tab checks for. Choose your own adventure/headache.

Or there is a website to track data that is used by someone on here that makes Co2 monitoring equipment.


As far as a PLC, there are some threads on here. The cost of the PLC+cable for programming+software+relays+wires+boxes+ethernet component+books that explain how to program that shit, that list is keeps going for the HMI that was shown in that video. A grow tronix(as shitty as it is for the price) would be about the same with all the bells and whistles while providing you with the HMI that you desire.

You have the linux box, which would look cooler. SCADA HMI or command line controlled grow???

 

[sm0k4]

Micro-controllers might be easier to learn and cheaper. Plus smaller form factor. The Arduino already has many features and hook-ups you would need. Just get some sensors, relays, etc. and you can run your whole room.

 

[Stoichio]

My goals: Coordinate fan and a/c usage. I'm running bare bulbs and would like to use temp sensors in and out of the GR, when outside temp is above x value, I'd cut the 14" fan and use only a/c. My 8" would remain running. I'd also like to use a phase angle controller to adjust the large fan's speed automatically, variations in OD temp make a big difference in GR temp with this kind of flow.

Also would like to control solenoids for an HP aero system. And make quick adjustments of the timing sequence through the HMI.

Would like to ultimately control and monitor multiple grow locations from my living room.

I do not want command line control, a GUI like the linked HMI is absolutely perfect. If I have to build any code to get there, I'm going to need a pacifier and somebody to hold my hand across the street

I understand that I can get a PLC (micro-controller, nano-PLC, w/e), program the ladder logic and do everything I want to do without an HMI. Except datalogging in a pretty GUI. That's the real question, what program out there is easy enough to use for me to set something up?

 

[sixth6]

Ebay has some cheap plc's. Are you gonna use relays or get one that switches 120VAC?

You need analog capabilities. Like A2D for all the sensors as well as D2A for the phase angle controller (VFD?).

For the HMI there are these peeps.
http://www.inductiveautomation.com/

found here:http://linuxscada.info/

They dont teach the scada shit at the school i go to so I am totally getting off to reading the manual.

 

[Stoichio]

I was looking at ignition, but I think it's a trial and licensing is required for full usage. I was working on the install last night but err, well... anything that's not a .deb always takes me a few tries

 

[sixth6]

What about these assholes?http://www.proview.se/

And they got it in all forms!http://sourceforge.net/projects/proview/files/proview/proview_4.8.1-2/

It says it can use one of these Motion Control USB I/O 21 channel controller, looks the simplest but with a lack of documentation I doubt it.

 

[sixth6]

If it does everything it says it is worth the $500 bucks.
http://www.motioncontrol.se/produkter/usb-io

Shit is like the Volvo of PLC's.