I just received my new opensprinkler (OS) sensor-expander module. This device provides support for 16 analog inputs that I hope to use to augment my old smartenit ezio8sa module which is no longer in production.

I currently use the pg3 node server for OS created by Javi. I would like to know if Javi or anyone else has plans to incorporate this new device into the OS node server. I might be able to eventually do the coding to add this device but I would rather leave that to someone with more experience.

https://opensprinkler.com/product/sensor-expander/

FWIW I’ve got a couple of the simplenet ezrain 8 zone controllers if you’re interested in a parts box if you’re interested.

The plugin is due for a rewrite. I upgraded my hardware to v3 recently so will take a look when I get some free time.

Currently don't use any OS hardwired sensors, what type are you using?

Javi, I have two intended goals using the sensor expander: one is to replace the sensor inputs on my existing ezio8sa which is no longer made, and the other is to move the sensors currently used with my Hunter irrigation controller over to the OS platform. Some of these are analog while others are on/off.

Using your plugin, I can currently control the zone outputs for sprinklers on the 16 zone expansion module and use the other built-in outputs for other automation task not related to irrigation that I am using the ezio8 for now. If you modify your plugin to include the sensor expander, I would be able to replace ezio8 optical and analog sensor input as well.

A few of these sensors would be on/off while others would be analog. I would use an optical isolator in front of the OS sensor expander to replicate the ezio8’s digital inputs. These would be pulled up to Vcc and shunted to ground for activation. I have already tested the OS hardware and it can recognize this as a state change and trigger a relay on board. But the OS UI only accommodates start time and duration for activation of an event. Hopefully the modified plugin would just report the change of state to allow eisy programs to do the rest.

The OS UI has thresholds that can be set for analog inputs. I’ve tried it using 3.3 and 5 volts as the pull up. Both work. That is ok for rain, temperature, humidity or soil moisture readings that are used internally for irrigation control. But I was hoping to get raw voltage or percentage output via the plugin to sense things like battery state of charge, or interior light level to set alarms or control shade for example.

I know this is a little open ended but may give you an idea as to what I think would be useful. Maybe others can add to this discussion and provide further application examples.