Re: [tlug] Light to control over Wifi

[Taisuke Yamada <tai@example.com>]

> What to use for the light? [snip] maybe there are lights controllable by
> wifi...?

I can think of　several options.

1. Latest and greatest way would be to buy Digi XBee WiFi module
    and some super-bright LEDs. You can control XBee over TCP/IP, so
    you can do pretty much anything - from lighting up LED to control
    some other equipment (like project or PC) over RS-232 serial port
    which XBee also has.

   One thing I'm concerned is that XBee WiFi may not be available
   yet as it is quite new. In that case, you can substitute it with similar
   module from other vendors, though XBee is easier to use.

Link:
- http://www.digi-intl.co.jp/products/wireless-wired-embedded-solutions/zigbee-rf-modules/point-multipoint-rfmodules/xbee-wi-fi.html
- http://jp.mouser.com/ProductDetail/Roving-Networks/RN-171/?qs=sGAEpiMZZMsjLMBIknjmkq2%2frjxiMYMOMeoQGiwzjfQ%3d

2. Similar to above, but use Bluetooth-to-RS-232 module, as above
    above is somewhat pricy. If you buy it at DealExtreme, this one is
    only $7 (but no support and quality gurantee). Android-based device
    usually supports Bluetooth, so you should be able to control it.

Link:
- http://www.dealextreme.com/p/wireless-bluetooth-rs232-ttl-transceiver-module-80711

3. This solution is very classic. Buy radio-controlled (! WiFi) power
switch, and
    just plug some lightbulb (or anything) to it. All you can do is
turn it on or off,
    and there's no way to do Android-based control, but is reliable.
    Also, you don't need to do any hobby electronics work - plug it in
and it'll just work.
    Just make sure to buy "RF" (radio) type (not "IR" (infrared) one).

    As a variation, you might want to go with X10, which is near-obsolete,
    but very cheap home automation system (~$30 for all-in-one pack).
    You can control it from Linux, as there's a opensource tool
available (bottlerocket).

Link:
- http://www.ebay.com/itm/Wireless-Remote-Control-3-AC-Mains-Power-Outlet-Plug-/280692798356?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item415a983394
- http://www.ebay.com/itm/X-10-CK18A-FireCracker-Kit-TM751-LM465-HR12A-CM17A-X10-/380139814431?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item5882193e1f

I have experience with XBee (non-WiFi type), cheap RF power switch, and X10.
All worked well, and I can recommend these.