Arduino Ethernet Capabilities Question?

Forum 2005-2010 (read only) General Frequently-Asked Questions
1

Hello All,
I have a question regarding the capabilities of the Arduino Platform. I am trying to create an Ethernet based sensor network that communicates with a central PC, sending and receiving information and commands. My intention is to have several Arduino Modules scattered around sending sensor information (Temperature, Light Levels, Dry Inputs, etc) to a PC that logs information and responds appropriately (Triggers Relays).

Can the Arduino modules be programmed to communicate with software on a PC through Ethernet in the manner above?

Thanks for your help in advance,
Alex

2

Can the Arduino modules be programmed to communicate with software on a PC through Ethernet in the manner above?

If I understand your question correctly, yes that should be possible.

--Phil.

3

Certainly possible and relatively easy, even for a first project.

I haven't used the official Ethernet shield but instead I use the Xport Direct module by Lantronix (Serial -> Ethernet module), they also do WiFi modules but they are pretty expensive.

If you want to learn more about that, Ladyada has a great shield/reference/library you can check out for a starter:

http://www.ladyada.net/make/eshield/index.html

If you like it - buy a shield and module and get cracking! If you want to minaturise everything, nkcelectronics also do a great adaptor that I use to convert the weird 2mm pin pitch of the xport to a standard 2.54mm (0.1") pitch. Sparkfun also do a small good looking Xport (non direct) adaptor here

4

Thanks guys, I had a read of the ladyada site and the Arduino.cc reference library and have ordered an ethernet shield which is on the way. Very helpful, Thanks guys.
Alex