Project: POS for Laundry Business
Requirements:
Ideas:
Server/POS Software send UTP Message to client Washer/Dryer, Client to translate message into credit to allow machine to run, using machine Coin Interface
Possible?
TIA
ok, slow down a bit...
Are the individual washer/dryers addressable? You may not need multiple Arduino if you can identify them across the serial link.
Next best option - if they're not addressable - is to use a single host 'micro', talking to multiple serial lines - each to a separate washer dryer. You could in fact eliminate the ethernet and arduino - a multi-port serial device on the host POS/server.
There are still a few open questions, but if you're running ethernet - get rid of that and wire balanced-serial instead. Cheaper, simpler. no switches, etc.
What software is runnng the POS/server - is it already aware of multiple washer/dryers? What comms is it expecting to use? Are you writing that for yourself?
e.g. I use an 8-port ethernet connected RS4xx serial converter, and a 32-port PCI adapter... there are many ways to 'address' your requirements, but they all require research and understanding of the problem.
RocketPort devices
Great that you're writing your own host software.
Short answer, get a USB or other multi-port RS-422 (4-wire RS-485) interface with enough ports - one for each washer/dryer).
That will come with drivers, and an API for you to tie into with your host software.
Each RS4xx port will connect to a separate washer/dryer with low cost 2-pair twisted pair cable (tx & rx)
In your server code (no Arduinos!), you'll simply send the required *message from the server/host to the coin interface on each serial port (that connects to individual washer/dryers).
Replies from each washer will be sent back to the host on the same cable.
Same idea, with a small relay or other contact closure across the pins at each washer. I think you've reached the point that you know what's going on, and have skills.
Why would you prefer the 'dumb' coin interface than the smarter 'serial' - for what is very little extra software effort.
sorry man, first time to do interfacing a device using those cables, sorry even relay i don't get it, or don't know where to start. let me program system, database etc.. i can do it... but with those washer cable dangling on it i don't really know where to start... sorry man.
I really need step by step with those cable of what to do, what to plugin what to buy..
Thanks
I think you may want to shift this across to the Gigs and Collaboration section.
You really need someone with adequate hardware experience to work through this with you. Ideally in the same state/city so they can test ideas and share the knowledge with you.
I'm in Melbourne Australia, others may be closer!
Id still be pushing for the serial interface.
Okay Thanks. That helps.