Raspberry Pi enthusiasts looking for an easy way to create industrial or home automation systems using the Internet of Things, may be interested in a new piece of hardware launched via Kickstarter in the form of the Pi-oT IoT Module for Raspberry Pi.
The IoT module has been specifically created to easily interface with the Raspberry Pi’s 40 pin GPIO connector offering a robust system capable of controlling 5 on board relays via the open source MCP3008/3208 python library to read the analog inputs.
Features and Capabilities
The Pi-oT IoT Module is designed to simplify the process of integrating the Raspberry Pi into industrial and home automation projects. One of its standout features is the ability to control five onboard relays, which can be used to manage various devices and systems. This is achieved through the open-source MCP3008/3208 Python library, which allows for easy reading of analog inputs. This makes the module highly versatile, enabling it to handle a wide range of automation tasks.
Additionally, the module is built to be robust and reliable, addressing a common issue with many Raspberry Pi projects that rely on hobby-grade components. The Pi-oT team has focused on creating a solution that meets the demands of industrial settings, ensuring that the hardware can withstand more rigorous use.
Development and Background
“The IoT Module for Raspberry Pi by Pi-oT started out as a B2B prototype. Our team developed a PC based IoT module for industrial settings and we found ourselves using Raspberry Pi’s frequently for prototyping. The only problem with using the Raspberry Pi for industrial settings is the auxiliary hardware is all Chinese hobby grade components.”
This statement highlights the origins of the Pi-oT module. Initially developed as a business-to-business prototype, the team recognized the potential of the Raspberry Pi for industrial applications. However, they also identified a significant limitation: the auxiliary hardware available was not up to industrial standards. This realization led to the development of the Pi-oT module, which aims to bridge this gap by providing a more durable and reliable solution.
Practical Applications
The Pi-oT IoT Module can be used in a variety of practical applications. For instance, in a home automation setup, the module can control lighting, heating, and security systems. By connecting sensors and actuators to the Raspberry Pi, users can create a smart home environment that can be monitored and controlled remotely.
In industrial settings, the module can be used to monitor machinery, control production lines, and manage energy consumption. The ability to read analog inputs and control relays makes it suitable for a wide range of tasks, from simple monitoring to complex automation processes.
Getting Started
Earlybird pledges are available from $35 or £29 and worldwide shipping is expected to take place during October 2019. For full specifications jump over to the official Kickstarter project page by following the link below.
Source: Kickstarter
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