Java relay board

Projects General Guidance
1

Hi every1

So here is my idea. Currently I use java to control ALLOT of LPT relay boards in my home automation project. I am looking at the Arduino Ethernet board to create a relay board that can control 32 relays and between 20-32 inputs. Now I know the unit I'm looking at has only 14 digital outputs.

Being a beginner at electronics and just mastered the simple LPT relay board I need some answers on the following:

  1. Will the Arduino work for what I'm trying to do? (Use Jave to control the outside world)
  2. How many relays would I be able to control?
  3. How many inputs would I be able to read? (Mostly switches to indicate a on/off)
  4. If this is possible, could someone point me to a VERY DETAILED schematic or tutorial to get me started.

Thanks in advance.

2

If this is possible, could someone point me to a VERY DETAILED schematic or tutorial to get me started.

Instead of repeating stuff over and over again, search the board for "multiplex". Lots of similar previous post on the same type subject.