DiyLightAnimation

Hardware => Lynx Aether => Topic started by: RJ on February 01, 2010,

Title: Project updates
Post by: RJ on February 01, 2010,
This thread is so the members can see the progress on the project.

First what is a Lynx Aether?

It is, Like almost all my projects, something I wanted for my show. I have been using MR16 lights as wall washers and the MR16 controller to run them. The two things that I felt could be improved the most where:

1- Output, the Mr 16's just take too many and this gets expensive as you add them since you have to add additional items to hold them... it runs away in cost.

2 - Having all the seperate items to setup, seal from the weather, and wire.


Now a number of DIY persons have done a pretty good job of over coming the 1st with the different porta flood designs. But it is the second where I wanted to really improve. Then of course make sure it can operate with wireless so I do not have any setup time just set it where I want it, point it & plug it in to a extenstion cord for power and be done.

But then I looked at different ways to build it and I decided to not use a large number of small LEDS but to use a small number of high output leds.

I looked at all the cheap leds and after reading a lot, found that you can not trust their ratings they rarely come near what they advertise for output, The color mixing is often off and sometimes the quality is not there leading to high failure rates if you use them at full output.

So I went with 6 brand name high wattage RGB leds. Then to really run these things at full output and make sure they last as well, and get all the light I can out of them I decided to go with latest generation constant current technology. This prevents us from having to have resistors dropping voltage into heat and instead use all the power for light. It also means as the leds temp change the current does not.

I provided a built in power supply and DMX controller to make it an all in one unit. Based it on the Express firmware to give me the ability to tune the curves for smooth dimming with good color.  Designed it to fit into a $5 flood housing that is common and easy to get. it is designed to use the power cord already in the housing.

I put the program and terminate jumpers on the side facing the the glass which opens with one screw and hinges down to allow easy access to set the channel and terminate if needed.

Heat was the big issue but the design takes this into account.
This unit should output 680 lumens of light at full so it will be very bright. (Typical 10mm bright led puts out about .7 lumens).

This is not the beginning of the project since the design work has been done and the prototype pcbs are on the way as well as parts.

This is where we see if the design meets my goals.

RJ

  
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Ron on February 01, 2010,
Do you sleep?

Seriously, very cool, again.

Ron
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: wbuehler on February 01, 2010,
Awesome News

Bill

Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Rod R on February 01, 2010,
Looking forward to the progress and I echo when do you find time to sleep?
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on February 01, 2010,
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Do you sleep?

Ron

It's overrated and not very productive!  ;D

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: KeithTarpley on February 01, 2010,
Greetings,,,

So when do you admit you just wanted these for headlights on the transformer car?

Keith

 ;D
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Caliente Christmas on February 01, 2010,
Very cool, can't WAIT to see Lynx Aether in action. another board to add to my project excel spreadsheet of must have items.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: ponddude on February 01, 2010,
Sounds great RJ! 

Whats the pronunciation on Aether?

Greg
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on February 01, 2010,
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Sounds great RJ! 

Whats the pronunciation on Aether?

Greg

Ether \E"ther\ ([=e]"th[~e]r), n. [L. aether, Gr. a'iqh`r, fr. a'i`qein to light up, kindle, burn, blaze; akin to Skr. idh,
     indh, and prob. to E. idle: cf. F. ['e]ther.] [Written also [ae]ther.]    ;D

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: jap813 on February 01, 2010,
cool this is what  I am looking for, when do you expect to have them available to to general population. GREAT work and by the way great ideas come while sleeping.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: austindave on February 01, 2010,
Sounds amazing, RJ. I know I'm getting ahead of things, but do you have an estimate of the cost (assuming it works as expected with your current design)? Thanks!
--Dave
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on February 01, 2010,
I am afriad we are way to early in to be putting cost and when out.
Once I have the proto built I will post info and video.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: rrowan on February 01, 2010,
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I am afriad we are way to early in to be putting cost and when out.
Once I have the proto built I will post info and video.

RJ

Darn, I was going to say more that a dollar and less than a thousand  :D

btw: Sounds way cool and Bright

Another Bright Idea from the RJ think tank

Cheers

Rick R.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: crazybob on February 01, 2010,
This sounds awesome. I was just beginning to look into other flood designs. Right now I'm using two Chauvet LED par cans, bu they're no where near as bright as I want.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Ron on February 01, 2010,
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Another Bright Idea from the RJ think tank

Ugh, that was bad Rick.

Ron
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: crazybob on February 01, 2010,
Do you have a link or more information on the housing for this light? I"m curious as to the looks and footprint of the whole unit when done.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: rrowan on February 01, 2010,
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Another Bright Idea from the RJ think tank

Ugh, that was bad Rick.

Ron

Sorry Ron,

I been a little bit more off than usual

Rick R.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: johno123 on February 02, 2010,
GREAT to hear as I was just gearing up to move on the Portaflood and find some way to control them with the MR16.  This will save me a lot of time and it sounds like an AWESOME product!!
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: onesmoothhead on February 02, 2010,
RJ, I can hardly wait to see the final outcome.  I have some great walls I would like to enhance.  Plus this would bring a whole new lighting scheme for my Dune Buggy in the light parade. I could light up all the candy on the road. I may need a bigger generator. kbl
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: deplanche on February 02, 2010,
RJ...

I thank you.  My wallet, bank account, and wife, do not.

:)

Jon
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Ron on February 02, 2010,
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Another Bright Idea from the RJ think tank

Ugh, that was bad Rick.

Ron

Sorry Ron,

I been a little bit more off than usual

Rick R.

Are they messing with your meds again? LOL!

Ron
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: jap813 on February 02, 2010,
okay guys enough with the BAD jokes and on with this years projects time is running out already :-) ;D ;D ;D ;)
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Caliente Christmas on February 02, 2010,
Ya no Kidding,  we have 284 days before we start setting up our displays.


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okay guys enough with the BAD jokes and on with this years projects time is running out already :-) ;D ;D ;D ;)
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: wbuehler on February 02, 2010,
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RJ, I can hardly wait to see the final outcome.  I have some great walls I would like to enhance.  Plus this would bring a whole new lighting scheme for my Dune Buggy in the light parade. I could light up all the candy on the road. I may need a bigger generator. kbl

I don't know about seeing the final outcome, as I do not think after looking at one of these that we could see anything after that.  ;D
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: jap813 on February 02, 2010,
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RJ, I can hardly wait to see the final outcome.  I have some great walls I would like to enhance.  Plus this would bring a whole new lighting scheme for my Dune Buggy in the light parade. I could light up all the candy on the road. I may need a bigger generator. kbl

I don't know about seeing the final outcome, as I do not think after looking at one of these that we could see anything after that.  ;D





Yet another Funny!!!!! :D :D
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: rrowan on February 02, 2010,
Ok,

Enough with the off topic stuff :)

back to the Aether talk

Rick R.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: KeithTarpley on February 02, 2010,
Greetings,,,

No more off topic talk.  I won't mention getting several of these items in order to have an AetherNet...

 ::)

Keith
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: vairmoose on February 02, 2010,
These jokes are getting a a bit aetherteric...    Time to get back to the basics...      I'm waiting for the link to  that aethercase    (it's either this or that)    ;D

Larry
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on February 02, 2010,
Man you guys must be sniffing the "aETHER"  ;D

Heres the the housing it goes in. I pick them up on sale every month or so for $4.99

http://www.northerntool.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_6970_200309783_200309783


But if you want I believe they fit this the same.

http://www.northerntool.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_6970_200309785_200309785?cm_sp=Xsells-_-Manual-_-Product%20Page

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: ponddude on February 02, 2010,
Just a thought more than anything RJ, but have you considered possibly using the NEMA cases from Polycase?

http://www.polycase.com/category/wc-series.html

I have use them for a few things and work out great.  Again, just a suggestion.

Greg
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on February 02, 2010,
These are more than just leds on a pcb so there is space needs and mounting to work with. I choose a cheap and easy to get metal work light designed to get hot and already has a handle, feet to stand on, is adjustable and has water tight power cord, ect that also cost half as much as what you posted.  Not sure how we will do better than it.

I do remove the grill guard from it it just snaps off and on.  

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: ponddude on February 02, 2010,
Fair enough.  Just thought I would ask.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: crazybob on February 02, 2010,
Is the whole halogen unit weather proof as-is? I was always under the impression that those units couldn't get wet?
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on February 02, 2010,
They are gasketed and the cord is double sealed so they are as water tight as anything I could ever build.

The instructions say "If using in a wet location insure they are plugged into a GFCI protected outlet.

And the metal case allows us to get rid of the heat which is a issue when you get to this powerful a light. It is designed for 500W halogen and they will cook in normal use. You can not touch them anywhere but the handle. Of course with the Aether pcb replaceing the 500w light it will not run this hot.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: tpctech on February 02, 2010,
RJ,

This is great.  I will back burner my triple 3 watt "decora" unit I started to use with your MR16 board to see how this works.   Being self contrained with DMX is great and a bunch better then my unit!! 

I have a couple questions:

1. What is your current idea to get DMX in and out?  dual RJ45 on the bottom side?
2. Which LED are you currenly playing with? I was playing with a King Bright RGB 3watt LED

Again COOL new blinky tool

KEN
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on February 02, 2010,
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RJ,

This is great.  I will back burner my triple 3 watt "decora" unit I started to use with your MR16 board to see how this works.   Being self contrained with DMX is great and a bunch better then my unit!! 

I have a couple questions:

1. What is your current idea to get DMX in and out?  dual RJ45 on the bottom side?
2. Which LED are you currenly playing with? I was playing with a King Bright RGB 3watt LED

Again COOL new blinky tool

KEN


Now you know a Lynx never lets go of all the info until it is ready!  ;D

Personally I will be using wireless to get DMX in. But it has a nice way of handling those with cables.

Standby a week and a half and if all goes well there will be a tell all video I think you will like.


RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Caliente Christmas on February 02, 2010,
RJ

Will this case work the same?  They are a local store, I think i can save a delivery Fee?  Will the housing work for PCB project?

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=66433

Portable Halogen Shop Light   

500 Watts of Halogen Power Provide Plenty of Light for Large Spaces


> Heavy duty tubular steel stand for maximum stability
> 45° swivel up and down
> Tempered glass lens with steel wire lens guard
> Easily accessible power switch
> Heavy duty handle with cushioned grip
> Contractor grade power cord
> Water resistant for outdoor use

120 volts, 500 watts; 1 ft. 18 gauge SJTW three-grounded power cord; Lens dimensions: 7" L x 5-1/2" W; Overall dimensions: 9-1/2" L x 8-3/4" W x 12" H
Weight: 3.2 lbs.

ITEM 66433-0VGA

$12.99
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on February 02, 2010,
Without one in my hand to compare I can not promise but I would say the housing looks the same so it is a good chance that it will bolt in exactly the same. A lot more than I paid for mine. If you watch Northern they put them on sale for $4.99 every so often and they also have stores all over you can pick them up at.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: bisquit476 on February 03, 2010,
Since this post started 2 days ago, those lights at northern tool have went down from $9.99 to $7.99

http://www.northerntool.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_6970_200309783_200309783

Not as good a price as RJ says ($4.99) but 20% off is still 20% off.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: WWNF911 on February 03, 2010,
Hey RJ,

Just catching up. I noticed that in the Forum it is posted as the LYNX Aether but in the News at the top of the home page it is listed as the Express Aether. I assume that one is a slip and that it is the LYNX Aether.

Either way,.. Kudos to you again. I LOVE the idea and the affordable housing you've found. I'm gonna start saving now and watching for the housing price to fall again. :D  :D  :D  :D  :D

Leon

(http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-basic/drool.gif) (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: vairmoose on February 03, 2010,
I received an email today from Northern Tool..   the halogen light is on sale for 6.79.   I did a playing with their cart and found that shipping can be the killer... for shipping to Alabama, the shipping is ~ $7 for one light...    but getting 6 lights, the shipping per light drops down to about $3 per light...   and stays in that approx range for up to 20 lights.   There does not appear to be a price break on the lights when in qty.

Larry
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on February 03, 2010,
Until I get the proto pcbs and make sure they work ok please do not buy any.

RJ

Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: jap813 on February 03, 2010,
ok, we are all waiting in suspense already, a very cool addition to the Lynx lineup. Can not wait to get my hands on some. ;D ;D
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: bdk197 on February 05, 2010,
I built some of the bigclive floods and run them off a D-Light DCx16. If this is something that would allow them to connect directly into a DMX universe that would be great. 

Is this basicly a 3 channel DMX controller?  Have another project in mind and am looking for a small, low cost 3 channel DMX driver for rgb leds.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: knguyen916 on February 05, 2010,
Hey RJ,

I hope the PCB has an option to turn the light on or off without the need of a PC. I can see other use for it in everyday life especially knowing that it will also be energy efficient. Using the same setup like the Express?
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: rrowan on February 05, 2010,
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Hey RJ,

I hope the PCB has an option to turn the light on or off without the need of a PC. I can see other use for it in everyday life especially knowing that it will also be energy efficient. Using the same setup like the Express?

Sure

Just use wireless and the conductor

:D

Rick R.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: tbone321 on February 05, 2010,
I hope that RJ gives an update on his progress with the conductor some time in the near future. 
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: knguyen916 on February 05, 2010,
Well i'm hoping without the need of those as well.  ;)

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Hey RJ,

I hope the PCB has an option to turn the light on or off without the need of a PC. I can see other use for it in everyday life especially knowing that it will also be energy efficient. Using the same setup like the Express?

Sure

Just use wireless and the conductor

:D

Rick R.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on February 05, 2010,
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1. What is your current idea to get DMX in and out?  dual RJ45 on the bottom side?

KEN

Ok,

  Since you guys like pics and to know stuff heres how it gets its DMX if you want to use cables and want to do it my way to keep it weather proof.

This may not be the way 20 other people would do it, but this is the way the Aether does it.

RJ

Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: ponddude on February 05, 2010,
Cat-5 is so last year...haha.  At least since we have wireless!! ;)
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on February 05, 2010,
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Cat-5 is so last year...haha.  At least since we have wireless!! ;)

ROFLMAO!

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Rod R on February 05, 2010,
Looks nice RJ,  I like the connectors.  I'm using something like that for my Triks Box.  Can't wait to see the night shots.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Brad on February 05, 2010,
WHAT am I to do now ??? I promised my wife I wouldn't add anything this year ??? ::)

RJ, when the coop starts, any correspondence with coop mgrs, you or paypal must say "payment for firmware upgrade". I think I can make that fly >:D ;)


Brad
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on February 05, 2010,
We can do better. I can put :


In reference to the down payment on the loving couple cruise package. Your wife will truely be surprised and they will pamper both of you till she will never forget this trip.  The unregular partial pays are fine we have people do it all the time. Just as long as the trip is paid in full three months prior to departure.   ;D

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: deweycooter on February 06, 2010,
Is it too late to call it Superficie Caliente? You've got a label built right into and everybody knows that anything caliente is better.  Just sayin'.

 ;)
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Blackbeard on February 06, 2010,
Gosh, I just hate to ask a serious question in this thread, so don't flame me.

Can you give an estimated projection angle for these things? It'd probably be useful in figuring out how many minimally will be needed for any given length to be illuminated. Are they fairly even lighting or will there be a central hot spot?

Does that question make sense?
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on February 06, 2010,
Lets wait for the video so you can see your thoughts on it.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Brad on February 06, 2010,
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We can do better. I can put :


In reference to the down payment on the loving couple cruise package. Your wife will truely be surprised and they will pamper both of you till she will never forget this trip.  The unregular partial pays are fine we have people do it all the time. Just as long as the trip is paid in full three months prior to departure.   ;D

RJ


That a great idea!!

Going to Travelocity now to book flights to Fla. ;D

Brad
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: tpctech on February 07, 2010,
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1. What is your current idea to get DMX in and out?  dual RJ45 on the bottom side?

KEN

Ok,

  Since you guys like pics and to know stuff heres how it gets its DMX if you want to use cables and want to do it my way to keep it weather proof.

This may not be the way 20 other people would do it, but this is the way the Aether does it.

RJ



Oh looks like Ethercons.... for the DMX......good call!!! I get really good prices Neutrik parts for work.  I will check $$ for you

KEN

Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on February 08, 2010,
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Here Here on the Neutrik parts - I use them on my CNC machines and I've never had a problem and they are much better quality for the money than other comparable connectors.  Looks like I need to setup a jig for cutting these case holes on my machine!

Nah the cast aluminum is so thin it is easy to cut them with a simple hole saw. All you need is a hand drill. I did those in a a couple minutes. The cast is paper thin. Could not be easier.

They are nice ends and I believe since every cheap way I looked at cost about $7 to do 2 of them it is worth another $7 to have these. And these keep it weather proof.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on February 08, 2010,
Hope to have the proto pcb by the end of the week. The parts are here and I am ready to get one together. I took an extra one of the led's and solder legs on it so I could put it into a jump block prototyping board. I could not turn it on very long (2-3 seconds) and had to limit the current to about half as there is not a heatsink on it.

All I can say is I can't wait to see what 6 of these are like on full! Trying to only look at it from the side about 90 deg's and even at this limited power and only one color on I was seeing spots for a while.

Maybe this weekend I can shoot some video for you and post. I think these will Get-R-Done if you know what I mean.  ;D

RJ

 
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: jap813 on February 08, 2010,
they need to hurry and send the pcb already getting a little antsy and we still have a few months to go ;D
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on February 12, 2010,
Got the proto pcb and did some work on the Aether tonight.  I messed up a number of places on the proto pcb (as expected) but it was good enough to do what I needed by hacking it up. I am working on the firmware now that I have some hardware to work with so I can not show it doing anything neat yet. It seems very bright and throws the light out wide and high so it will have good coverage even when you are up close to the wall.

This is the best I can do with the camera it is kinda bright for it to capture well. I can't control it yet but I did dim it via hardware to get a better picture with the room lights on.

Heat seems to be well under control as you can put you finger on the heatsink layer next to the leds with one channel wide open and it is just above room temp after 10 minutes of running. The large surface area of both sides of the pcb tied together with a large number of vias is the heatsink so it keeps it very cool.

Soon as I have it fully working I will get it outside on a house to compare it to MR16's since that is what I have and most people know what they put out.


RJ 
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Rod R on February 12, 2010,
RJ,

Looks pretty bright to me.  Thanks for sharing, can't wait till you get everything up and running.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: KeithTarpley on February 12, 2010,
Greetings,,,

You have a bumble bee car.  Now you're working on something with some sting.    ;D

Keith
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: lortiz on February 12, 2010,
Dont you all notice?

The Camaro have transformed into an Aether and a Voltmeter.

Amazing!!  :o
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Brad on February 12, 2010,
Nice RJ.

Brad
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: lineman on February 12, 2010,
Sign me up looks Great RJ



                Jeff
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: knguyen916 on February 12, 2010,
Just curious, how much space do you have in the back behind the board? Would making the board smaller and adding relfecting mirrors to the unit be benefical? Just thinking outloud if I had mirrors I can angle it in different positions for different angles and arrays.

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Got the proto pcb and did some work on the Aether tonight.  I messed up a number of places on the proto pcb (as expected) but it was good enough to do what I needed by hacking it up. I am working on the firmware now that I have some hardware to work with so I can not show it doing anything neat yet. It seems very bright and throws the light out wide and high so it will have good coverage even when you are up close to the wall.

This is the best I can do with the camera it is kinda bright for it to capture well. I can't control it yet but I did dim it via hardware to get a better picture with the room lights on.

Heat seems to be well under control as you can put you finger on the heatsink layer next to the leds with one channel wide open and it is just above room temp after 10 minutes of running. The large surface area of both sides of the pcb tied together with a large number of vias is the heatsink so it keeps it very cool.

Soon as I have it fully working I will get it outside on a house to compare it to MR16's since that is what I have and most people know what they put out.


RJ 
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: joshuashu on February 12, 2010,
RJ,

This is what i have been researching, and looking for all last year. was hoping that lor would come out with theirs, but since you are so awesome i now dont have to worry about theirs.  Thanks so much i am excited. do yo think you may have somthing for us to demo at ICE? its in july? would love to demo the wireless and this.  :) :)
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on February 12, 2010,
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Just curious, how much space do you have in the back behind the board?

None!  The back side is where the power and brains are at.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on February 12, 2010,
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RJ,

This is what i have been researching, and looking for all last year. was hoping that lor would come out with theirs, but since you are so awesome i now dont have to worry about theirs.  Thanks so much i am excited. do yo think you may have somthing for us to demo at ICE? its in july? would love to demo the wireless and this.  :) :)

Since it is just Feb I would say yes I will have it done by then. I expect to have them in beta in less than a month.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: crazybob on February 12, 2010,
Do you think these will put out enough heat to melt any snow that gets on them? I think these would look amazing in a display, but can't help but imagine them buried in the 55 inches of snow we've already got this winter...
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on February 12, 2010,
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Do you think these will put out enough heat to melt any snow that gets on them? I think these would look amazing in a display, but can't help but imagine them buried in the 55 inches of snow we've already got this winter...

Maybe you are on to something!  LED powered Snow Blowers!  ;D

Light,  Really light!  HaHA and energy efficent!

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: rcouto on February 13, 2010,
Hi RJ,

Like everyone else, I also find that this will be a great addition to our shows.  I noticed that you still have some small re-design work to do and would like to put in a suggestion.

Would it be possible to design on the board some sort of header that could enable us to extend out an optional on/off switch that would bypass the DMX circuit and simply turn on the flood light.  My thinking is that it would be great to be able to use the flood light as a regular light in the off-season.

As with everything else, I am excited and grateful that you share this passion with us

Thanks,
RCouto
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: thshadow on February 13, 2010,
Actually I could see that as a great addition as well. I wasn't thinking for off season use but more for setup when you are arranging lights to see where their placement needs to be to get the amount of wall washing/color/light that you want in defined locations; if there was something like this it would make them very portable for testing during a setup and for rearrangement prior to running additional cables besides power. However thought I read previously it would be wireless capable so that may be a mute point.. but think the suggestion has merit if it is feasible/doable and cost effective... only RJ though knows the answer to that.

- Mike
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: golights on February 13, 2010,
RJ, with the led that you are using for this project, do you know if a lens is offered for these to be able to control the beam spread?
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on February 14, 2010,
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"I noticed that you still have some small re-design work to do and would like to put in a suggestion."

Actually after building it I did have some mistakes in layout but even more so I found more so that I had made it harder to build than needed. This is being rectified in the revised layout to make sure anyone can build it.

The Proto pcb worked out well as it let me prove the temperture would be very managable with the methods I used to control it. It proved out the constant current driver system works well. It proved the output of the light to be good. It proved the fit of the case with the design has room for the transformer and ect to clear the inside of the case with a very safe margin of error.

With all this in mind I have the revised layout almost done. The pcbs will be ordered this week and I hope these are the ones that the beta guys get once i build one to test.

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"Would it be possible to design on the board some sort of header that could enable us to extend out an optional on/off switch that would bypass the DMX circuit and simply turn on the flood light. "

I will see what I can do. The color will not be true white with it full on in hardware since it bypasses the firmware I do not know if that matters.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on February 14, 2010,
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RJ, with the led that you are using for this project, do you know if a lens is offered for these to be able to control the beam spread?

I will get into all of that once I have a decent beta unit built that looks nice so I can do a introduction to the Aether video. I plan to put a MR16 out on the house on one end of a long wall and the aether on the other so we can compare them. That way the difference in how the camera puts up the light is cancelled since almost everone has an idea of how bright the MR16's are then I will take you through everthing about a Aether. Give me a few weeks to get the pcbs and get one built.

Always have to put our best foot forward, we don't want anything that looks like it might "burn your house down" getting posted.  ;D

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: blickensderfer on February 14, 2010,
RJ,

Could you save the rbg levels in eprom from vixen and the external switch control the eprom setting without vixen to run it stand alone.

Dan
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on February 14, 2010,
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RJ,

Could you save the rbg levels in eprom from vixen and the external switch control the eprom setting without vixen to run it stand alone.

Dan


Geez!  it isn't even finished and the feature creep is in full run!  ;D   Yeah I guess I could have the switch tell the processor to do it so it could turn the unit to full white on.

RJ

 
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: thshadow on February 14, 2010,
Sorry bout that.. Everyone is just really excited about this and sometimes we forget you have a lot going on as well.. Like a coop for a bizillion parts, a pcb coop, and several new projects also...
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: jap813 on February 16, 2010,
What no updates lately????? I need one of these asap so I can play like a little kid ;D ::)
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: rrowan on February 16, 2010,
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What no updates lately????? I need one of these asap so I can play like a little kid ;D ::)

I think real life has put things on hold until the weekend

But I could be wrong or I could be right, could I be both??

Cheers

Rick R.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: tbone321 on February 16, 2010,
Real life stopping the creation of our toys!?!?!?!?!  I'll tell ya, the nerve of some people.   >:D
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on February 16, 2010,
Yes I am unavoidable out of town this week unexpected. It should have not been but do to a scheduling snaffu I am.

I have been working on the layout work in the hotel at night so once I get home I can move ahead with it.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Greg on February 17, 2010,
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Real life stopping the creation of our toys!?!?!?!?!  I'll tell ya, the nerve of some people.   >:D

"Our toys" are actually RJs toys. ...which, thanks to his generosity and fine upbringing he shares with us and for which we are eternally grateful.

Thank you RJ.   :)

Greg
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on February 18, 2010,
New Layout is looking good and is much more builder friendly. When I get back home this weekend I will test fit a few items to the new layout printout and order the pcbs.

A couple of little bits of info on the unit. The projection of the unit can be changed so you can make it what you want. A extreme wide flood down to a spot light in a minute or less. I will be testing this in the new pcbs and will get some video.

It also has an on board temp sensor as a emergency safety. If it ever detects the Leds reaching max it can limit output to keep them at the max output it can safely do and stay at a safe temp. Does not appear this will be an issue in any normal operation but for the 26 cents it cost to add the sensor, I felt it was cheap insurance to protect your investment.

I added, at the request of users, a set of pads to solder wires to and remote a switch to the outside if you decide to, it will turn the light on full white manually.

It will be 4 channels, It will have  Red, Green, Blue and White as independant channels. When the white channel is active the other channels will be ignored and and the light follows curves to ramp up and down white light. When you ramp white back down if the color channels are still on the light goes back to that color as soon as the white channel hits zero.

So in other words the 4th channel is a white overide.

The 6 high power RGB leds will put out a lot of light. So this should be a bright & reliable unit. Like the Express controller, This is not designed to be the the cheapest light but an inexpensive version of some of the very expensive lights. I expect this light to coop around $90 - $95 each. So for what the cost of one of the commercial units you can build 5 of these and light your whole show. This is a complete all in one solution where you simply plug in 120v or 240v and DMX to it either wired or wireless if you add it.  

If all goes well I will have this ready for beta in less than a month and out in two or less.  

More to come.

RJ  
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: sims101 on February 18, 2010,
Rj what LEDs and driver are you using ? 3w
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: hbomb341 on February 18, 2010,
Will White be a set of white LED's or a MIX of RGB?

Harrison
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on February 18, 2010,
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Rj what LEDs and driver are you using ? 3w

I will would rather hold off of getting into the parts yet. I will cover it when I have the beta board running with video.

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Will White be a set of white LED's or a MIX of RGB?

Harrison

Mix based on the calibration from the manufactor. These are higher end leds and can produce a decent white.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on February 20, 2010,
Got the Aether pcb finished and ready and ordered the beta pcbs. I am much happier with this layout as it will be so much easier to build and is just a better layout. It's ok the proto pcbs are just to test the theories and then we get the real test ones done.  Did one last test for temp put the unit in a sealed box and ran it for a couple of hours. This is going to work great. Played a little with changing the focus of the unit from wide to spot and that seems to works well with the limited testing I could do inside the workshop. Colors blend nicely do to the RGB leds having the colors so close together. This is one of the reasons I wanted to go this route instead of the independant leds. also it cuts down on soldering to build.

Looks like it will be a nice addition to the Lynx line.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: tpctech on February 20, 2010,
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RJ, with the led that you are using for this project, do you know if a lens is offered for these to be able to control the beam spread?

I use a expensive and very bright commercial indoor LED fixture at work the "ETC Selador".  This fixture uses plastic lens that go in front of the fixture.  They have both vertical and horizontial spread lens.  External lens may be an option if you need them.  The ETC lens are about 5" x 11" and cost about $18 retail each. 

KEN
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: JoeFromOzarks on February 20, 2010,
For a "wash" of light splattering everywhere, I picked up some broken pieces from Lowes "Metalux 2' x 4' Troffer Replacement Lens Only" (Item #: 163816 ) for $1 each.  List is $7, either way, makes a bunch of diffusers if you're wanting to splash light everywhere.
 
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: batdive on February 23, 2010,
WOOhoo.. Nice DIY RJ.. Just in time too, since I have been looking for a great DIY type wall washer set up.


So is this going to be ship ready by halloween? =)

Whenever its done, sure it will be just as good as the other kits  I have put together of yours.


Kudos RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on February 27, 2010,
Beta pcbs should be here this week with luck. Firmware is coming along well and should have a fully functional unit in a week and a half.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: batdive on February 27, 2010,
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Beta pcbs should be here this week with luck. Firmware is coming along well and should have a fully functional unit in a week and a half.

RJ


Dang impressive RJ, and you have a job outside of DIYlightanimation?  ;D
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on February 28, 2010,
How else would I afford to do this?   <wd..

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on February 28, 2010,
Well after messing around with the proto mule pcb for this I have decided that I think the coolest thing about the Aether is the ability to focus the light at different spreads for what you need or want. It can be from a tight spot to almost a 180 deg sphere output or places  in between all in a matter of a minute or less.

Its like  "you want a tight spot"  BAM! its a tight spot... "You want a wide flood" BAM! its a wide flood..  ect.ect.

With this and the other features this will be a nice addition to our line of lighting devices.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: BryanV on February 28, 2010,
RJ   I'm soooo excited about these lights I think I might of just pee'd.
 <fp.
Bryan
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: crazybob on February 28, 2010,
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Well after messing around with the proto mule pcb for this I have decided that I think the coolest thing about the Aether is the ability to focus the light at different spreads for what you need or want. It can be from a tight spot to almost a 180 deg sphere output or places  in between all in a matter of a minute or less.

Its like  "you want a tight spot"  BAM! its a tight spot... "You want a wide flood" BAM! its a wide flood..  ect.ect.

With this and the other features this will be a nice addition to our line of lighting devices.

RJ

RJ, what part is needed to make the "BAM!" sound?
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: KeithTarpley on February 28, 2010,
Greetings,,,

You may have seen a reference on site to the Ka-Boom protocol.  It's the same part, only put in backwards...

Keith

 <pop..
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: crazybob on February 28, 2010,
Hmm... One would think that would make more of a "Moob-Ak!" type noise? Maybe the Aether only makes the "Bam!" sound when Emeril Lagasse is using it.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Dennis Cherry on February 28, 2010,
Quote
what part is needed to make the "BAM!" sound?

Toothpaste. <la..
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on February 28, 2010,
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RJ   I'm soooo excited about these lights I think I might of just pee'd.
 <fp.
Bryan

Way TMI!!!!  <yk..

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on February 28, 2010,
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Well after messing around with the proto mule pcb for this I have decided that I think the coolest thing about the Aether is the ability to focus the light at different spreads for what you need or want. It can be from a tight spot to almost a 180 deg sphere output or places  in between all in a matter of a minute or less.

Its like  "you want a tight spot"  BAM! its a tight spot... "You want a wide flood" BAM! its a wide flood..  ect.ect.

With this and the other features this will be a nice addition to our line of lighting devices.

RJ

RJ, what part is needed to make the "BAM!" sound?

Now you bunch of caddy guys!  Thats what it sounds like when you close it after changing it!  <fp.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: bisquit476 on February 28, 2010,
Just a quick question RJ, you mentioned wireless, is the Aether going to use the EX/RX board for wireless?
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on February 28, 2010,
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Just a quick question RJ, you mentioned wireless, is the Aether going to use the EX/RX board for wireless?

It can.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: bisquit476 on February 28, 2010,
Direct mounted? or a modified version like the Lynx, SSR4, etc....
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on March 07, 2010,
Direct mounted would not work do to the housing being metal. I will show how you can have it so it is all part of the unit using an EX/RX.  

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on March 07, 2010,
Sorry for the lapse in info but been waiting on PCBs to show up. They should be here this Monday or Tueday and I hope to have time to get one built by the weekend so I can show it off. I found a replacement for the Constant current controller that is through hole so the whole device is now through hole (no surface mount parts) except the 6 LEDS which are surface mount but easy to solder by hand. They are not small so it makes it easy. The part count is small so you can build one of them in 30 minutes if you have done much soldering.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: ponddude on March 07, 2010,
 <la.. Sounds great RJ!  Looking to see the proto's in action.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: egenoup on March 07, 2010,
Waitin anxiously....    :o
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on March 08, 2010,
Few pictures of a Aether in operation. This is just a first few shots. I will get setup in a good place to show it off. I picked the room with the lightest walls. Not even close to white but had to do for a first look.

I will post each pic in a seperate post so I can explain what you are looking at.

First picture is the Aether Complete. The is for the most part exactly as it will be when you build it with the exception of the surface mount parts have been swapped with their through hole versions to make the whole thing though hole design. I worried some people would miss out on it just because of the fear of surface mount. 


RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on March 08, 2010,
Next picture is of the unit lighting me front room wall in the three base colors. This is it set at the Wide Flood setting.  Notice how even the lighting is. I will get it outside on a house this weekend and show you how far it spreads.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on March 08, 2010,
Ok this is it set to green and the focus set to Med Flood. Notice the focus coming in and the center getting hot. Now remember this is close up on the wall.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on March 08, 2010,
This is a pic of the Light still Green but in the spot setting. The light has not moved in any of the pictures.  

There is also a Tight Flood setting that I did not take a pic of that is between the Spot and Med Flood setting.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: i1uhrace on March 08, 2010,
That looks awesome!
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: joshuashu on March 08, 2010,
Awesome.  Can not wait to see the house photos.  :)  Thanks Rj for all your hard work!
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: KeithTarpley on March 08, 2010,
Greetings,,,

Pretty lights....

Keith
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: jap813 on March 08, 2010,
really cool I am getting antsy to get my hands on some of these cool toys <res.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: vairmoose on March 08, 2010,
SWEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEtttt !!!!!!!

Larry
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Rod R on March 08, 2010,
Nice RJ, can't wait to see how it looks once you get it outside and take some pics.  <res.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Kwajtony on March 08, 2010,
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Greetings,,,

Pretty lights....

Keith


... and they're pretty!
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: trekster on March 08, 2010,
I LIKE IT!

That is really bright.

Ron
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: ThaiWay on March 08, 2010,
RJ, really pretty sweet bright and cool-ly hot!

Just how does this focus thingy work?

Looks like I'm going to have to price the enclosures here now... won't be any five bucks on sale though that's for sure.

John
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Greg on March 08, 2010,
Re: first photo of complete unit.

Wow, check out those M&Ms!!!   Uh, nice light too.  :D   

Greg
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: egenoup on March 08, 2010,
Niiiicceee... M&M with Hot Sauce!!!    <md..

The flood is looking nice.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: thshadow on March 08, 2010,
This is totally awesome... totally....

Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: lineman on March 09, 2010,
Coool, GOTTA HAVE IT,

   Does it come with the M&Ms.



                          GREAT JOB RJ

                                   Jeff
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: thshadow on March 09, 2010,
Yes look at the coop when it is available and select the add-on kit.

Add-on Kit #1
1 Bag of M&M's

Add-on Kit #2
1 Bag of M&M minis

Add-on Kit#3
Single Individual M&M

Please note we must reach at least 5,000,000 units  <yk.. in the Aether Add-On M&M coop to make shipping costs reasonable. IF we reach $5,000 in Add-on kits the Coop will close and we will PM everyone that they should have bought stock in Hersey's ;)
 <la..




Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: deplanche on March 09, 2010,
Great, I just converted all of my light strings to LEDs and now I have to replace those with M&Ms. 
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: KeithTarpley on March 09, 2010,
Greetings,,,

You just use white leds, and then use the M&M shells as color filters....

The candy that melts in your mouth, not on the Aether...

Keith
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: jap813 on March 09, 2010,
So thats what makes the BAM! noise when you switch from flood to spot <la..
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on March 09, 2010,
Now back to the regularly scheduled program! you bunch of comedians  <md..

Ran the Aether for 4 hours tonight at max output with a themocouple on the led slug. Got a long ways to go before anything melts. So we are looking good. I had the temp sensor safety killed off so I could see the limit of what it would do with all she has. It would not be needed and would have never been active.  I will leave it in for the $.26 the sensor cost and a few lines of code in the pic. That way if someone does something crazy like paint one black and turn it on outside in south fla in august at noon wide open for 6 hours I know it will keep on getting it with no damage possible do to the safety system. Just a little reduction in output as the worst case and as soon as the temp came down it would power up to full again.  

Working on the firmware to add the bells while I wait for the through hole version (final version I hope) of the pcbs to come. If I get the firmware to a point of being able to show off the fourth channel (White) I will get a video of it in full operation this weekend.

Showed it off to the Sheriff today, she asked if I would build some of them for her!  <yk..   <res.

Told her we will see and Smiled.   Then when she said what she was going to do with them it hit me. I am going to make a special firmware that lets you cable any number of them together and the first one is the master. No computer involved they just do color fade patterns all in sync stand alone. Then I am going to use them on my house for landscrape lighting like this. Just plug the power in and away they go.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: trekster on March 09, 2010,
Really looking forward to the video for sure!

Thank You

Ron
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: WWNF911 on March 09, 2010,
Really looks good on that wide mode. Such an even spread of color. I originally thought these would enhance my MR16's Then I thought the other way around. Now I may do away with the MR16s. <fp.

Leon
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Dennis Cherry on March 10, 2010,
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Showed it off to the Sheriff today, she asked if I would build some of them for her!  <yk..   <res.

Told her we will see and Smiled.   Then when she said what she was going to do with them it hit me. I am going to make a special firmware that lets you cable any number of them together and the first one is the master. No computer involved they just do color fade patterns all in sync stand alone. Then I am going to use them on my house for landscrape lighting like this. Just plug the power in and away they go.

RJ

That's one of the ways I want to use them year around beside in the Christmas Display.  Will need about 8 to cover my house.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: rrowan on March 10, 2010,
Hey RJ,

If you are doing color patterns can we also get Holiday Patterns?

4th of July - Red,White,Blue
Halloween - Orange
Easter - Green, Blue

etc

Rick R.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: knguyen916 on March 10, 2010,
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Told her we will see and Smiled.   Then when she said what she was going to do with them it hit me. I am going to make a special firmware that lets you cable any number of them together and the first one is the master. No computer involved they just do color fade patterns all in sync stand alone. Then I am going to use them on my house for landscrape lighting like this. Just plug the power in and away they go.

RJ

Here is another idea, can we through on some headers to hook up some solars ^_^ hahah
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Kwajtony on March 10, 2010,
Solars are good!  I have made a concerted effort to be all LED to try and keep my carbon foot small (and power bill) these are sounding better and better every day and if they can be placed like yard / house flood's that work off Solar energy the rest of the year so much the better (less to put away after christmas).
I'm about saving energy both mine and the power co's (and my elelctric bill).


Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: riri7707 on March 10, 2010,
Excellent <res.

For M&M cool, but my doctor will not appeciate at all:-\

I'm impatient to see more photos and for the coop....

Humm, my wife will be happy: garden day and garden night <pop..

Impatient to see the suite....

Thanks RJ...

Cheers... Riri
 
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: ratroder on March 10, 2010,
great job, i can't wait to see the video of these.

how well do you think these would work as a wall wash? as well as could these be mounted in something like an outlet box (a deep one)?

i am thinking of using these in my studio room as wall washes. i was thinking of mounting the boards and components in an outlet box or something similar (doesn't have to be water tight) and then mounting the boxes on the ceiling on a bit of an angle.

do you think this would work well, or is there a better product to use?
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on March 11, 2010,
No these will be strickly for the cases they were designed for as it is a major part of the heatsink. They are kinda of bright for indoors use for that and you could do it cheaper with the less light output you need.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on March 11, 2010,
Got the temp monitoring working well tonight. I set it to hold the max LED temp to 40 deg c and it has set for the last hour with in 1 deg c of that at all times. The plan is to set it about 15 degs below rated continous operation and it will be there if someone puts on in a really hot enviroment to protect their investment. It will not run that hot in normal conditions so it is just a safety device like a fuse.  The way it works is when the led gets to the set temp for each .05 deg c rise the unit reduces the output a very little amount. This is so little you can not see a change. But over a few minutes it slowly reduces until it finds the point at which the unit can hold the current temp. Looks like even at low set points it does not take a lot of reduction to do this.  It still functions normal you can fade up and down with in the end point it has set. so I can not tell it is doing anything except for looking at the temp. If the tmep falls down it slowly raises the output back to full.

RJ

 

Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: mschell on March 11, 2010,
RJ,
   Would love to see how these look with full white, as well as a color in between R G or B.   A nice lavender or yellow or orange picture would be great.   This would show how well the individual LEDs merge and mix.

The temp monitoring sounds cool (pun intended!)
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on March 11, 2010,
I should have the firmware to a point that I can demo that it in a few days.  Since the white is already mixed for you with channel #4 I need this to get the firmware finished before I demo that.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on March 13, 2010,
As requested :

I am a little color blind so with no one to check me they looked good to me. I used the flat rate boxes cause I do not have any white walls but they are pure white so it makes sure it shows true.  Camera has a hard time with the hottest spot overwhelming it but I think what you are loking for is the rainbow artifacts from using individual leds that do to the space between them you get. These are high end leds with the dies almost touching so it does not do that. They are made to blend well. They just cost more.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: KeithTarpley on March 13, 2010,
Greetings,,,

I say again, Pretty Lights!

Keith
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Ron on March 13, 2010,
The white looks great.  The colors looks pretty good too.  The only one I'm not sure about is the orange.  It looks pretty red to me.

Ron
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Rod R on March 13, 2010,
Nice work RJ, can't wait the see the video's.  <la..
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on March 13, 2010,
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The white looks great.  The colors looks pretty good too.  The only one I'm not sure about is the orange.  It looks pretty red to me.

Ron

Maybe if the guy mixing it was not color blind he would get it better?   <md..

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: rrowan on March 13, 2010,
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The white looks great.  The colors looks pretty good too.  The only one I'm not sure about is the orange.  It looks pretty red to me.

Ron

Maybe if the guy mixing it was not color blind he would get it better?   <md..

RJ

Yeah that guy needs to work on his photoshop skills

Rick R.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: egenoup on March 13, 2010,
I'm color blind too so they look good to me...

cheers,

Charles    <pop..
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: tpctech on March 13, 2010,
These look great RJ.  PM me on the part number of the Neutrik Ethercon connector you have choosen.  I will get quotes from my sources to see what $$ I can get for you.....us!

KEN
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on March 13, 2010,
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The white looks great.  The colors looks pretty good too.  The only one I'm not sure about is the orange.  It looks pretty red to me.

Ron

Here maybe you can find it in this!   <wd..

Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Caliente Christmas on March 13, 2010,
WOW    Nothing but  <res.


Can't wait to own my own!!!!


Here maybe you can find it in this!   <wd..


[/quote]
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: PJNMCT on March 13, 2010,
YES!
 :o <res.


-Paul
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: riri7707 on March 14, 2010,
Pefect RJ <res.

Waiting for a COOP without a PB...

My wife understand now the spending hours on my lab with DYI...

She imagined yet : day garden and night lighting garden 8)

So i can continue on DIY working without any PB ;)

Impatient i am to try this...

Regards, Henri
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: joshuashu on March 14, 2010,
WOW! love the music too.  I can't wait to get one of these.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: lightsup on March 14, 2010,
that looks good a rainbow in a box , cant wait to see the cost of the parts and PCB , if it will be affordable for us canadian eh.
all joke aside you doing a great job RJ in such a small time period.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: jnealand on March 14, 2010,
I predict that you need to be prepared for another HUGE coop when this one is ready.  I'll be in for several.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: BigVettePimp on March 14, 2010,
All I can say is DAAAAMMMMMMNNNNNNN! <res. <md..
RJ I am totally impressed.
YOU DA MAN.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: BryanV on March 14, 2010,
Looks awesome.  RJ  Not wanting to re invent the wheel but would there be some kind of design where these lights might be done length wise to fit under soffets.  That way there wouldn't be any chance of theft and the wall washer would be hidden.
Thanks again for all you do.

Bryan
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Dennis Cherry on March 14, 2010,
I have to many projects to use these floods.

Loosing sleep now, want to get my hands on one.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on March 14, 2010,
Ok here is the white channel in operation.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: rrowan on March 14, 2010,
Very Nice RJ

Cheers

Rick R.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Rod R on March 14, 2010,
OK where do we sign up.  <la..  <res.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: egenoup on March 14, 2010,
Now you are just teasing us....    <la..  <md..

Just Joking... need about 6 of these for this year....  with wireless  heh - no more running wires
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: joshuashu on March 15, 2010,
Rj,

i am just curious how will this work with LSP? i have told david about it and i hope he is following this.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: egenoup on March 15, 2010,
If I am not mistaken, it will work like a 4 channel DMX device.  1st channel red, 2nd green, 3rd blue and 4th white.  I'm sure RJ will correct me if I am wrong!    <la..

Charles S.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on March 15, 2010,
Ok it is long so I am sorry but here it is on a wall!  I mis speak the whole time with getting Flood and Spot light backwards but you will get the idea.   <yk..

RJ

http://www.vimeo.com/10196027
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: rrowan on March 15, 2010,
WOW

Aether has Light Power :D

and yes the Blue MR-16 kept me entertain while you were in the barn

Cheers

Rick R.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Rod R on March 15, 2010,
OK I want, I want, I mean I need, I need  <md.. <md..

 :) Nice Job RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: kylec on March 15, 2010,
Looks awesome!!

Thanks for the video!

Kyle
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: thshadow on March 15, 2010,
This is amazing... I can already think of a lot of stuff to do with this.

- Mike
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: KeithTarpley on March 16, 2010,
Greetings,,,

The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,

To dry really well, after wall washed by Aether...

Keith

 <pop..
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: lortiz on March 16, 2010,
RJ,

I am sure now this little toy will break all COOP records of any kind.

I can't hardly wait to get my hands on some!!!!
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: deplanche on March 17, 2010,
Nice video.  I know I am going to need a few of those.

Just out of curioisty, how are you changing from flood to spot?  That wasn't in the video, but I was really hoping for it.

Also, how far were the lights from the wall?  Just trying to figure out if they will work at all to illuminate the 2nd floor of my house with a driveway in front of it.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: n1ist on March 17, 2010,
The Aether doesn't need an SSR since it has the dimmer built in. 
/mike
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: BigVettePimp on March 17, 2010,
RJ. you have really come up with some fantastic stuff <res. How soo till you run a CoOp on this one. I'm working on my first display for 4th of july and 4 of these would really kick some A$$ for wall washers.      Michael
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: batdive on March 17, 2010,
Wow looking good. 

Drool
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: KeithTarpley on March 17, 2010,
Greetings,,,

Point it at an aluminum tree to simulate the old rotating color disc...

Keith
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: tmtfield on March 17, 2010,
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Greetings,,,

Point it at an aluminum tree to simulate the old rotating color disc...

Keith

Keith,
I still have my parents rotating 4 color light for the aluminum trees. (still works)
would this be the first 4 channel controller? ;D
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: BigVettePimp on March 17, 2010,
dmoore, thanx for the info. Already have a flag and simulated fireworks built. The display has 112 channels and nearly 12000 lights. Will post some videos later. Halloween is gonna be hella wicked with fire and fog,,I'll show that off later. <md..         Michael
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: crazybob on March 18, 2010,
RJ, with all this talk about using these for other hollidays, how do you think these would hold up being permanatley mounted ourside? Are the cases meant to be left outdoors year-round?
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: ElectricCraft1 on March 20, 2010,
Check out this link:

http://www.electricalcraftsmanship.com/html/online_videos.html

The video is poor, but you get the idea.  It was my first lighting show ever, for christmas or any other holiday. 

All built DIY!

The flag measured 9 ft. x 17 ft. to scale of the real thing.

The fireworks were 12 ft high as well.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: KeithTarpley on March 20, 2010,
Greetings,,,

Nice.  Seems like a good place to put the flag in the structure.  Like the fireworks.

Keith
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on March 20, 2010,
Can we split the firework, flags, 4th of july stuff over into its own thread. It makes it hard for everyone else to follow the original thread.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on March 20, 2010,
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RJ, with all this talk about using these for other hollidays, how do you think these would hold up being permanatley mounted ourside? Are the cases meant to be left outdoors year-round?

Mine will be, They are work lights with aluminum painted cases and glass fronts so nt much to go bad on them.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: batdive on March 20, 2010,
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RJ, with all this talk about using these for other hollidays, how do you think these would hold up being permanatley mounted ourside? Are the cases meant to be left outdoors year-round?

Mine will be, They are work lights with aluminum painted cases and glass fronts so nt much to go bad on them.

RJ


Ahh security lights in an assortment of colors!  ;D

Imagine setting them to music, now that would set your house up for a party.


RJ, these look awesome cant wait for the COOP
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: PJNMCT on March 20, 2010,
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RJ, with all this talk about using these for other hollidays, how do you think these would hold up being permanatley mounted ourside? Are the cases meant to be left outdoors year-round?

Mine will be, They are work lights with aluminum painted cases and glass fronts so nt much to go bad on them.

RJ


Ahh security lights in an assortment of colors!  ;D

Imagine setting them to music, now that would set your house up for a party.


RJ, these look awesome cant wait for the COOP

I'm trying to figure out how to turn these little babies into a moving gobo type projector - you know, huge projected snowflakes - which I just may do without motion but would love to include motion as well...

-Paul

...OK I got it, a color wheel off to the side using a big disk with "snowflake" holes that pass over the Aether  <yk..
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: rrowan on March 20, 2010,
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Quote from: RJ on February 28, 2010,
Quote from: bisquit476 on February 28, 2010,
Just a quick question RJ, you mentioned wireless, is the Aether going to use the EX/RX board for wireless?


It can.
------------------------------
RJ -

Can you confirm if the EX wireless module (http://www.diylightanimation.com/wiki/index.php?title=Image:Exrx.jpg) will attach directly to the control board inside of the Aether or will it use the stand-alone receiver (http://www.diylightanimation.com/wiki/index.php?title=Image:Lynx_Receiver.JPG) external of the Aether case?  (of course updated for version 2.0 of the wireless)

Thanks!
David

My guess is RJ is not ready to announce the wireless part yet. No guaranteed that it will use any of the current wireless boards or it could, I really don't know

When he is ready everyone will know.

Rick R.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on March 20, 2010,
David,  The unit could be run from a Standalone or the EX/RX.  The issue is the metal case that is needed for heatsinking. As you can imagine it is not the best material to get the radio signals through so I worried doing it inside would be too range limiting. I have arranged a setup to use them anyway but like Rick said I am not wild about getting into the stuff until I have it working and know it will work well and I want be changing it.

Right now I have been having a bad time with converting to through hole on it. I thought it would help with those that surface mount makes nervous but the replacement parts for the surface mount are killing me. I had the exact part in through hole and then a few days ago it went on the obsolete list so no need to use it. Then I found a suitable replacement and could not find any in stock. Guess what called a supplier about it and it is Obsolete!  <yk..

Man I guess we are going to be moving that way or there will be no parts to work with. All the new good stuff is surface mount and even the old stand bys are not being replaced. Look at what happen to me with the TLC5940NT chip for the MR16 controller. It is getting hard to get. I can get it in SMD with no issue.

So at this point I believe we are back to the Aether being surface mount like the prototype is. I went back to it and I am changing a few parts to the next size larger in an effort to make it the easiest SMD to build I can. It is really easier once you get over it and try it. A cheap griddle is cheaper than a solding iron. I bought mine for about $28 at walmart as I remember, and it works great.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: crazybob on March 20, 2010,
This may be a dumb question, but what is the advantage of things moving to surface mount?
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on March 21, 2010,
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This may be a dumb question, but what is the advantage of things moving to surface mount?

For everyone but the DIY guys it is GREAT!  Much smaller devices, Cheaper to make, Cheaper to build with in manufactoring, smaller warehouses.

For the DIY guys...  Getting parts is the big thing. Since the big guys no longer use the through hole stuff the manufactors have little incentive to keep making it. And it is easier to assemble if the parts used are large enough. Solding never takes me more than 4 minutes on any surface mount design. Of course I am not including the time putting the paste on and sticking the parts on the board.  ;D

I mean how hard is it really with larger parts, you put a drop of goo on each pad. Pick the parts up and set them on the board. They stay there because the solder paste is like, well "PASTE" then when all the parts are on the board you sit it on the griddle and turn it on about 1/3 the way up. When it kicks off wait about 45 seconds and turn it 7/8 of the way on. When it kicks off wait about 30 seconds, Turn it wide open and watch as you the grey goo turns to bright shiney solder and the parts move around to line up straight like magic. Then once it is all nice you turn off the griddle and let it cool for about 10 minutes. All done!!  (Of course these crude instruction are for my griddle ymmv)

It is so COOL to do, the first time you see it you will be running around trying to figure out what else you can do!  <wd..

and you want have a single cold joint on the whole pcb.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: n1ist on March 21, 2010,
And if you want to use a soldering iron, and there are no QFN packaged parts, you can.  It's really not that hard, especially if RJ is using 0805 or larger parts, and if the chips come in SOIC packages.

There really is no need to fear surface mount, and as RJ pointed out, it's getting real hard to find newer chips in through hole these days. 
/mike
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: egenoup on March 21, 2010,
I know it is not ideal, but why not have two kits... One through-hole with its own BOM and another kit for those of us willing to try surface mount.  I'm sure that the dongle price would drop a bit if we used SM for most of the parts, and the dongle would be smaller. 

just my .02!

Charles
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on March 21, 2010,
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I know it is not ideal, but why not have two kits... One through-hole with its own BOM and another kit for those of us willing to try surface mount.  I'm sure that the dongle price would drop a bit if we used SM for most of the parts, and the dongle would be smaller. 

just my .02!

Charles

Maybe I am not explaining myself well. It is not a matter of I could do either with no problem so I want to do SMD. It is a matter of the parts avaiable in the through hole format preventing me from going through hole. The through parts I could find are not for this world very long according to their manufactors. Since I am putting so much work and money into the project I can not move ahead with parts that will not be avaliable before long.  I could build the controller using old technology that waste a lot of power as heat so that the light runs hot and it uses a lot of power. But that is not what I am doing on this. I plan, as do a bunch of others that have contacted me, to use them as outdoor lights year round so I want Efficent, long lasting units which means going effecient. The Aether uses hardly over 20 watts of power for the light it puts out  <wd..

That is up in the 94% range of efficency. This means for 3 lights at full that is 60 watts which I can light my whole house at full brightness with. I would never want to use full for this kind of lighting from these lights it would be too bright for that kind of effect. So that means about 30 watts at half brightness to light my whole house.

Do the math... I can light it up for 4 hours a night all month for  3.6 kwh or about  $.60 a month ( 4Hours * 30W = 120W... 120W * 30days =3,600W  = 3.6KWH <res.

Then during christmas season I can kick them up full power and do a heck of a show. Then put them back on my house. And doing so just involves moving them and plugging in power as there is no external controllers or power supplies to deal with on them. They are self contained in their housing needing no external items to operate when used in wireless mode.

RJ


P.S mike the smallest parts are 1206 and the ics are all SOIC so these are big parts for being surface mount. Anyone wnating to build them can do it and could do it with a soldering iron if they want I just prefer to use the griddle. I will show both technics in the build video so they can see how to do both.
 
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: crazybob on March 21, 2010,
I'm all for trying surface mount. It's not like there's nobody around here who can give some guidance...
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: foodseller on March 21, 2010,
I, too, am all for doing the surface mount.  We are DIYer's we will be able to work around all the issues.  I think, from what I read, that we can get the SMD and go from there.  I think it will be pretty cool to get into the "new" way of doing things!  As long as DIYer's can still get the parts as well.

just my .02 worth.

Thanks, btw, RJ for all of your hard work and brilliance on this stuff!  About the only thing I know is that when my kits show up--I put them together and they work like magic!!  ;D
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: n1ist on March 21, 2010,
1206 and SOIC are huge.  My soldering kit uses 0805 parts, so for those of you who will be building them, Aether will be using bigger discretes, and the same pitch ICs.

Building SMT is actually easier than TH; you don't have to worry about parts falling out when you turn the board over to solder them (since you don't) and you don't have to clip leads.  If you do use paste and a skillet or oven, it's even easier.  I have hand-soldered 0402 and MSOP with an iron - now those are small.

/mike
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Dennis Cherry on March 21, 2010,
Go for SMT.

We need to keep up with some of the new technology.

RJ: will the solder paste be furnished with the kits or do we buy it separately?

Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: wbuehler on March 21, 2010,
Yes surface mount is awesome.  I do the griddle method and it is cool.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: rogerwh on March 21, 2010,
For someone who just spent about 4 hours on a Dongle {CB with my first solder job and still ended up with several solder bridges to go back and fix, I would certainly be wiling to try surface mount. <wd..
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on March 21, 2010,
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Go for SMT.

We need to keep up with some of the new technology.

RJ: will the solder paste be furnished with the kits or do we buy it separately?



I think we will need to offer a seperate kit for just building supplys. In it we would provide Solder paste, plunger and correct size needle. Also the correct Non Conductive thermal paste used to attach the LED's plus a Flux pen for hand soldering the parts you will hand solder.  This way you get one build kit and it will do all of your units as well as other projects later. In quanities we can get it cheaper and it will be convienient to the user as they know they are using the exact stuff I am in the video assembly manual. All you provide is a cheap griddle from walmart or other, and you are set.

RJ 
 
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: rrowan on March 21, 2010,
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Go for SMT.

We need to keep up with some of the new technology.

RJ: will the solder paste be furnished with the kits or do we buy it separately?



I think we will need to offer a seperate kit for just building supplys. In it we would provide Solder paste, plunger and correct size needle. Also the correct Non Conductive thermal paste used to attach the LED's plus a Flux pen for hand soldering the parts you will hand solder.  This way you get one build kit and it will do all of your units as well as other projects later. In quanities we can get it cheaper and it will be convienient to the user as they know they are using the exact stuff I am in the video assembly manual. All you provide is a cheap griddle from walmart or other, and you are set.

RJ 
 

That sounds awesome, I have not done any smd/smt but I think we need to go in that direction.

Cheers

Rick R.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: tbone321 on March 21, 2010,
I was reading one link where the people were using a toaster oven but the paste that they were using was water based and must be stored in a refrigerator.  I would think that you are not using that paste.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: thshadow on March 21, 2010,
If we are making these on a griddle sure you don't want to change the name to Lynx Pancake Lights
 <la..
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: batdive on March 21, 2010,
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If we are making these on a griddle sure you don't want to change the name to Lynx Pancake Lights
 <la..

Ok SMT and a griddle.. Well check have the griddle, but RJ or someone I sure hope a "how to" video would be great , if it seems that is the future of the Lynx line.

I know this DIYer could use it.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: vairmoose on March 21, 2010,
I know that my SWMBO would have a real kanniption if I pulled out the griddle in the kitchen to do this....   and all my explanations would not get rid of thos daggers...   

I wonder if this would be satisfactory?     on sale it probably could be found for $25. 
http://www.walmart.com/ip/Presto-Mini-Griddle/11445796#ProductDetail (http://www.walmart.com/ip/Presto-Mini-Griddle/11445796#ProductDetail)
Larry
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on March 21, 2010,
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I know that my SWMBO would have a real kanniption if I pulled out the griddle in the kitchen to do this....   and all my explanations would not get rid of thos daggers...   

I wonder if this would be satisfactory?     on sale it probably could be found for $25. 
http://www.walmart.com/ip/Presto-Mini-Griddle/11445796#ProductDetail (http://www.walmart.com/ip/Presto-Mini-Griddle/11445796#ProductDetail)
Larry

Yes it would work. It might heat up faster than mine but likely would still be fine.

Here is the one I am using on the same page. http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=4242477&findingMethod=rr

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on March 21, 2010,
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If we are making these on a griddle sure you don't want to change the name to Lynx Pancake Lights
 <la..

Ok SMT and a griddle.. Well check have the griddle, but RJ or someone I sure hope a "how to" video would be great , if it seems that is the future of the Lynx line.

I know this DIYer could use it.

I am not sure I want everyone to think everything will be made SMD at DLA. But the Aether needs the benifit of it and so it for sure will. I also have a dongle design that someday when everyone is confortable with SMD I will release. It is just the same dongle but about $20 cheaper.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: egenoup on March 21, 2010,
Sorry to have upset you a bit RJ... You did explained yourself, I jut did not express myself correctly.  I was referring to through hole stuff you already have out and working like the dongle, LE and FS.  It would be nice to have those in SM also.  I know they will all come with time and I don't mean to be inpatient.     <res.   and peace... we need a peace emot...

Charles
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on March 22, 2010,
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Sorry to have upset you a bit RJ... You did explained yourself, I jut did not express myself correctly.  I was referring to through hole stuff you already have out and working like the dongle, LE and FS.  It would be nice to have those in SM also.  I know they will all come with time and I don't mean to be inpatient.     <res.   and peace... we need a peace emot...

Charles

Charles,

 Not sure what you read as having upset me? Or what I said that sounded upset?

I do not see changing things that work fine, and parts are avaliable. There as so many projects waiting their turn.  I would not be doing this in SMD if it did not need to be. This is not ooohhh SMD is cool lets do everything in it. It is more like... There will  be things that can not effectivly be done but in SMD. Some stuff is that way now and more will be in the future.

RJ

   
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Exitfourxmas on March 22, 2010,
Spring / garage sale season is coming so it looks like another reason to just have to go out and do some shopping! ;)
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: batdive on March 22, 2010,
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I am not sure I want everyone to think everything will be made SMD at DLA. But the Aether needs the benifit of it and so it for sure will. I also have a dongle design that someday when everyone is confortable with SMD I will release. It is just the same dongle but about $20 cheaper.

RJ

Well RJ from what I am reading (with parts of the through the hole design being "obselete") it appears SMT is the future.  I can say obviously Ather is the first but obviously not the last.  I know any and most DIYer's are always up to a challenge and if the stuff needs to convert to SMT for cost/parts, I am ready to accept the challenge and give it a go.  Never done SMT, but I think with the breadth of help we have on the boards (and Im sure PLENTY of videos to assist the move from through the hole to SMT) the DLA community can make it as painless as possible.


And from what I have read of/from you, always offering a through the hole design as much as feasible would be included. 


-JS

Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: knguyen916 on March 23, 2010,
just a note, I know SMD are a little more difficult to solder for some/most, however when the time comes where you think to start adding more SMD products there will be another couple hundred thousand  ;D new DLA users who will not feel comfortable. I'm just saying there will always be new people who will not feel comfortable because DLA is constantly growing with new users. I don't think it will ever slow down and stop to eventually have everyone comfortable. Just saying I wouldn't mind you start adding in the SMD designs as you've done with Aether. Maybe your slowly integrating it into your board designs, but thats just my thoughts.

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If we are making these on a griddle sure you don't want to change the name to Lynx Pancake Lights
 <la..

Ok SMT and a griddle.. Well check have the griddle, but RJ or someone I sure hope a "how to" video would be great , if it seems that is the future of the Lynx line.

I know this DIYer could use it.

I am not sure I want everyone to think everything will be made SMD at DLA. But the Aether needs the benifit of it and so it for sure will. I also have a dongle design that someday when everyone is confortable with SMD I will release. It is just the same dongle but about $20 cheaper.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: thshadow on March 23, 2010,
I'm totally okay with trying the SMD... This is my first time doing all of this... just built a dongle... just put together a SSR/DMX and well now undertaking a Freestyle and an Express... with that all that said I think SMD sounds interesting... just kindda weird you use a griddle ;) but you know pancakes and project completion all in the same morning.. you would be ready to go by lunch time... and hey maybe even a basic show by dinner ;) well then again maybe not  <la..
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Gary on March 25, 2010,
Hey, rather than wasting money at Wal-mart to get a griddle to do surface mount stuff, why not go to the local thrift store and get one that's all scratched up and ruined already?
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: WWNF911 on March 26, 2010,
Ya,... but I'd be careful though... Most of the thrift places around here wanna charge as much as new. If you're not up on the prices you could end up paying way to much for something somebody threw out and (most likely) couldn't sell at a grage sale.

Leon
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on March 27, 2010,
You also want a very clean one as grease splattering on the pcb will be bad. Also at the heat we do this a grease fire is possible. Just a thought to think about.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: trekster on March 31, 2010,
Here is your light fixture on sale for $6.79  http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200309783_200309783

15% off select Northern Industrial Tools at  Northern Tool + Equipment


15% off select Northern Industrial Tools at Northern Tool + EquipmentNorthern Tool + Equipment is currently offering 15% off select Northern Industrial branded tools. Shipping is free on orders up to 50 pounds when you become a Hotline member. This Northern Industrial 500 Watt Portable Halogen Worklight is $8 - 15% discount + $8 shipping = $15 shipped.

Just happened to see it on a sale on www.BensBargains.net

Ron




Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: lineman on April 01, 2010,
Here is your light fixture on sale for $6.79  http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200309783_200309783


                  Thanks for the info just ordered 4

                                   Jeff
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: jnealand on April 02, 2010,
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Here is your light fixture on sale for $6.79  http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200309783_200309783

I was out and about running errands today with one of my stops being Northern Tool.  First I stopped at HD to pick up some gardening stuff and took a look at their floodlights.  $15 each, but I learned long ago that there is no penalty for asking.  I had a printout of the NT web page with sale price on with me and HD agreed to match it.  Saved me from an additional 10 miles each way and I suspect I might have gotten a little better light.  So print out the web page and ask for a price match at HD or Lowes or Menards or whomever.  I got over a 50% discount at HD.  If they said no, I would have driven to NT and got what I needed.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: WWNF911 on April 02, 2010,
RJ,..should I jump on this or do you still expect it will go to $4.99 eventually?

Leon
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on April 02, 2010,
No way to know? I bought some cheaper but might be as good as it gets. Do not forget the Aether is not even out yet and everyone needs to know you can not use just any flood light you need the correct one or you will be up a creek. This is not a just make it fit situation. It needs to be correct or you are going to have many issues to deal with as the housing is part of the heatsink.  I believe it is early in the game myself as the pcbs for beta are 2 weeks out. I figure the coop will start sometime in May. 

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: jnealand on April 02, 2010,
That is why I save my receipts and don't take things out of the box until I know for sure.  I always try to use places that will take stuff back and I've returned stuff over a year old with no problems.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: knguyen916 on April 03, 2010,
Everyone keeps buying and their stats will show that the product is a good seller. Then eventually the price continues to go up, hard to go down if the product is being ordered and stats show an increase in the order of this item. Supply and Demand.

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RJ,..should I jump on this or do you still expect it will go to $4.99 eventually?

Leon
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Kwajtony on April 04, 2010,
The other side of that coin is the higher the price the more people are willing to supply, hence driving the price back down.  But, how about that Aether?  Is that like a totally awesome concept.  I am anticipating these results of the beta with fish (bated) breath.    I know only 235 days until lights on!

r,
Tony "C"



updated calculation to the day after Thanksgiving.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: dmaccole on April 04, 2010,
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I know only 235 days until lights on!

Erg. I am so far behind.

\dmc
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: vairmoose on April 04, 2010,
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I know only 235 days until lights on!

Gulllllllllp...      arches to build,  trees to string,   squirrels to shoot.....    out-a-time already...   

    and then I still have to do blinky.....   

Erg. I am so far behind.

\dmc

Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on April 10, 2010,
Time to post something so no one thinks the project died. I am still waiting on the beta pcbs  <md..  some of the requirements for it makes it take longer to get all the art work and ect done. I will have either the new beta unit at the florida mini to show or the prototype seen in the videos weekend after next. I plan to show them in wireless mode to let people see how that works. I have not been able to hurt the prototype even doing some really terrible things to it. (trying to overheat it, putting it in the freezer and then turning it on and taking it out to 90 temp so it had a harsh temp cycle, ect.) like a timex watch  <pop..

RJ

Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: crazybob on April 10, 2010,
For us where we get tons of snow, have you tried freezing it and then turning it on to full force? I'm sure mine would be buried under snow at some point during the winter...
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on April 10, 2010,
Yes,

 See previous post.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: egenoup on April 10, 2010,
Might want to try subjectin them to 110 degrees... Texas can get a bit warm...

Thanks,

Charles  <pop..
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: crazybob on April 10, 2010,
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Yes,

 See previous post.

RJ

Sorry, I assumed you meant that you put the light in the freezer, and then outside into 90 degree weather WITHOUT turning it on.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: jap813 on April 10, 2010,
If you really want to heat test it you can send it to me in Arizona and I will put it outside in one of our soon to come 120 degree days <md..
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: egenoup on April 10, 2010,
Cook it good!   >:D
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on April 10, 2010,
It was already subjected to high temps. This was for sudden tempurture changes of being frozen and the turned on and warming up fast.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: crazybob on April 10, 2010,
So for those of us who already have routines made for our existing Red, Green, and Blue LED's (seperate), have you tried turning the red, green, and blue channel on full power to see how accurate of white is made without actually using the white channel? If it's a half way decent white, I may not even bother changing the routines to use the white channel!
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on April 11, 2010,
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So for those of us who already have routines made for our existing Red, Green, and Blue LED's (seperate), have you tried turning the red, green, and blue channel on full power to see how accurate of white is made without actually using the white channel? If it's a half way decent white, I may not even bother changing the routines to use the white channel!

Yes the white looks ok done that way. It is a cool white but not bad at all.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on April 11, 2010,
Video with the unit wireless and an explianation of the focus adjustments.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: rrowan on April 11, 2010,
Hi RJ

A hot video of a COOL light
 <yk..

Thanks

Rick R.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: egenoup on April 11, 2010,
What lenses, if any, will come with the coop?


Ohhh and cool and informative....

Charles
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Rod R on April 12, 2010,
Rj,

Nice job as usual now I know I got to get these :)
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on April 12, 2010,
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What lenses, if any, will come with the coop?


Ohhh and cool and informative....

Charles

Any you want they will be options on the coop for you to ala cart.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: bisquit476 on April 12, 2010,
That is one awesome light, great video for showing it's capabilities, now to figure out how many I've "got to have"
 <res.

Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: KeithTarpley on April 12, 2010,
Greetings,,,

You just prevented this from happening...

 <md..

Not a pleasant experience...

 ;D

Keith
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: lineman on April 12, 2010,
Very Cool Aether I already have 4 lights waiting for MOD, Will the cat 5 connections also be ALA carte
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: jnealand on April 12, 2010,
WOW that is great.  I guess I better get my LEs and new dongle built so I have room on the workbench for a new griddle.  Oh then there is the new wireless TXRX still come to come.  I may have to come out of retirement and go back to work so I can have the money to buy all this stuff.  As my son would say.  RJ you're the man!!!.

If there is any way you could post board dimensions and mounting info so we can start looking at light cases that would be helpful.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: bisquit476 on April 12, 2010,
Jim, this is the light RJ is using as the case for the Aether

http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200309783_200309783?cm_sp=Xsells-_-Manual-_-Product%2520Page

They have a store not far from you

North 41 Plaza
119 Cobb Parkway N
Marietta, GA 30062
Phone: 770-590-1114

Bill
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: austindave on April 12, 2010,
I don't remember seeing this discussed... Is there any possibility of a 12VAC power option for Aether?

If possible, I'd rather not run high voltage around my yard for landscaping lighting - I'm much happier relying on low voltage for this. But I'd really like to be able to use Aethers for this lighting (since they're *so* much more flexible and capable)...

I suspect many DLA members would feel the same way. Many would probably have / want to resort to professional installation for 120VAC landscaping lighting (which would be easily avoided by providing a low voltage power option)...

Thanks,
Dave
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on April 12, 2010,
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Greetings,,,
You just prevented this from happening...
 <md..
Not a pleasant experience...
 ;D
Keith

LMAO!    <yk..

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: BigVettePimp on April 12, 2010,
RJ,
Just watched the latest video and all I can say is WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!! <res.
Can't wait for the first CoOp!!
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: austindave on April 12, 2010,
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I'd assume that if you already have 120v foods mounted in your soffits and other locations, I suspect with a little effort, a mount could be fabricated for long term lighting.  Another alternative is the Mighty-Mini floods which are at 24V DC... no wireless and no built in controller but would be easier to mount and safer than 120v.

Hi dmoore,

Well, to get wall-washes (like I want), I envision the lights being out in the yard, pointing back at the walls (and / or other landscape elements). [Of course, since I don't have floods mounted on my soffits, that part is sort of moot.]

And, of course, other options exist. But no wireless and no built-in controller sort of defeats the whole purpose. The Aether will provide all these things in one - that's part of why it's so attractive.

And my thought was that, depending on how it's designed, a 12-volt AC power solution *might* be a very simple modification (perhaps being as simple as removing the 120v transformer, replacing it with a couple of jumpers & installing a different power cord - though it might be much worse than that, depending...).

But if it's easy, and others would be interested in that option, wouldn't it make sense to provide it?

--Dave
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on April 12, 2010,
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Hi dmoore,

Well, to get wall-washes (like I want), I envision the lights being out in the yard, pointing back at the walls (and / or other landscape elements). [Of course, since I don't have floods mounted on my soffits, that part is sort of moot.]

And, of course, other options exist. But no wireless and no built-in controller sort of defeats the whole purpose. The Aether will provide all these things in one - that's part of why it's so attractive.

And my thought was that, depending on how it's designed, a 12-volt AC power solution *might* be a very simple modification (perhaps being as simple as removing the 120v transformer, replacing it with a couple of jumpers & installing a different power cord - though it might be much worse than that, depending...).

But if it's easy, and others would be interested in that option, wouldn't it make sense to provide it?

--Dave

Well it is a little more difficult than that to make them work on 12volts DC. One thing users have to understand is that many people will all want different stuff and they will of course think their idea is more needed then the others. This is not a bad thing but it is a point everyone has to come to understand. We can not design stuff to do everything as this would make them exspenive, complicated, and take for ever to get working.

To make it a little more inclusive and show it is not just here but everywhere and since the mighty minis were brought up, There is a number of post on the mighty mini talking about how it should have been 12 volt. Other felt it needed constant current drive for better led life, others asked about built in power supply, others think it should have included a controller in it, others have talked about adding frosted filters to make the color blend better. These are all public post you can find easily enough.

My point is that no matter what you design there will be users that think it should have " insert here" option.

As far as the Aether, the beta boards I am waiting on do indeed have a dc input for 12v on it and marked for such. It is totally untested and may not function correctly for all I know so this is the reason I have not mentioned it. The reason I added it was for the reason the OP stated. I want to use them as landscape lighting and 12v dc is common for this. I also am working on the code that makes them stand alone where one is a master and the others slaves so they can do color changes and patterns on there own with no input to them. 

RJ 
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: PJNMCT on April 13, 2010,
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My point is that no matter what you design there will be users that think it should have " insert here" option.

As far as the Aether, the beta boards I am waiting on do indeed have a dc input for 12v on it and marked for such. It is totally untested and may not function correctly for all I know so this is the reason I have not mentioned it. The reason I added it was for the reason the OP stated. I want to use them as landscape lighting and 12v dc is common for this. I also am working on the code that makes them stand alone where one is a master and the others slaves so they can do color changes and patterns on there own with no input to them. 

RJ 

Here Here...BUT I sure do hope the 12 volt option works. I think that is a great addition. <res.

-Paul
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: austindave on April 13, 2010,
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My point is that no matter what you design there will be users that think it should have " insert here" option.
...
I want to use them as landscape lighting and 12v dc is common for this.
RJ

Thanks RJ. Of course you're right... I was only asking for it as a convenience - it's certainly not mandatory - and I figured it was relatively easy (compared to many requests)...

But correct me if I'm wrong on this... I thought that typical landscape lighting was 12v AC (unrectified, unregulated). Maybe there are DC models, but I always thought the lower-end stuff (i.e. available at Home Depot) didn't include any rectifiers.

Thanks again,
Dave
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: tbone321 on April 13, 2010,
All of the ones that I have installed and worked on were AC out as well.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on April 13, 2010,
Sorry,

 The unit runs on DC but has its own rectifier and cap so it does not care if you put 12v DC or AC into it. This is of course untested functionality at this point.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Gary on April 19, 2010,
How many prongs does the floodlight for this kit require? 2 or 3 conductor?
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: tbone321 on April 19, 2010,
If RJ is using a meta cased housing then I would assume and suggest a 3 wire power cord.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: crazybob on April 19, 2010,
Don't quote me on this, but I think I remember reading that this will use the existing power cord.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: n1ist on April 27, 2010,
RJ-
  With the wireless coop just starting, should we be buying RX/EX for the Aethers we plan to get or will the Aether coop include the wireless option?
/mike
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Rod R on April 27, 2010,
Good question Mike would like to know the answer to that as well :)
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on April 27, 2010,
It would be up to the coop manager so I can not say.  If you get what you need in the current coop you have it covered.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Rod R on April 27, 2010,
RJ,

Just to verify the Aether is using the EX/RX wireless correct?, that info was posted I think on page 14 or so just want to make sure no changes were made.  Thanks
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: wbuehler on April 27, 2010,
I would suggest that if you can get your receivers now, as the high qty makes for a cheaper price.
This way you have one component of the Aether covered.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on April 28, 2010,
Also the Aether does not need the connector like the ssr4 / Freestyles do to use wireless. It has a small cable with plug that hooks to the wireless module. (Radio Control Servo Extensition cut in half) This lets you switch back and forth between wired and wireless with out taking the Aether apart. You just open the front door and move a jumper. I will have the build video and manual ready before we do the coop so everyone can watch and decide if they want to build them or not.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: moronoron on April 28, 2010,
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Also the Aether does not need the connector like the ssr4 / Freestyles do to use wireless.
RJ

So, just to be absolutely certain for this newbie (me!), here's the current wireless V2 coop:

********************************
********************************
Kit 1 – Version 2 Tx/Rx Parts Kit
Kit 2 – Version 2 Tx/Rx PCB
Kit 3 –Version 2 TX/RX Case
Kit 4 – Version 2 LE/RX Parts Kit (Lynx Express Receiver)
Kit 5 – Version 2 LE/RX PCB
Kit 6 – LE/RX Header Pin (Allows LE/RX to be used with other Lynx gear like the MR16 Controller, SSR4…etc…)
********************************
********************************

Are Kits 4 & 5 needed for the Aether?  Looks like you say Kit 6 is NOT needed for the Aether.  It seemed like maybe Kits 1, 2 (and 3?) could work too?  Does one Kit set mount inside and one outside?  Or is one better than the other?

Sorry for the stupidity, but just trying to understand this and go the right route for when the Aether is released.

Man, have I got a lot of stuff to build this summer!  These coops are killing me ;)
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on April 28, 2010,
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Also the Aether does not need the connector like the ssr4 / Freestyles do to use wireless.
RJ

So, just to be absolutely certain for this newbie (me!), here's the current wireless V2 coop:

********************************
********************************
Kit 1 – Version 2 Tx/Rx Parts Kit
Kit 2 – Version 2 Tx/Rx PCB
Kit 3 –Version 2 TX/RX Case
Kit 4 – Version 2 LE/RX Parts Kit (Lynx Express Receiver)
Kit 5 – Version 2 LE/RX PCB
Kit 6 – LE/RX Header Pin (Allows LE/RX to be used with other Lynx gear like the MR16 Controller, SSR4…etc…)
********************************
********************************

Are Kits 4 & 5 needed for the Aether?  Looks like you say Kit 6 is NOT needed for the Aether.  It seemed like maybe Kits 1, 2 (and 3?) could work too?  Does one Kit set mount inside and one outside?  Or is one better than the other?

Sorry for the stupidity, but just trying to understand this and go the right route for when the Aether is released.

Man, have I got a lot of stuff to build this summer!  These coops are killing me ;)

You have it correct. The EX/RX will mount inside and is cheaper. The TX/RX can be used in RX mode to plug into the Aether externally to also make it wireless. All in what you want to do. The TX/RX will need power also to operate where the EX/RX gets it from the Aether power internally.

RJ

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: moronoron on April 29, 2010,
Thanks RJ!  This helps A LOT  ;D
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: vairmoose on April 29, 2010,
just a quick note......   stopped by Sears today and happened to wander through their small kitchen appliance area........   found this  http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00867707000P?keyword=electric+griddle&prdNo=4&blockNo=4&blockType=G4 (http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00867707000P?keyword=electric+griddle&prdNo=4&blockNo=4&blockType=G4)  at half price  -- less than $20...   couldn't resist.    Now I have a griddle big enough to handle any SMD I could imagine wanting to do.......   and cook a beavy of pancakes..   

Larry
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: cpnbnanamn on April 30, 2010,
I was actually just talking to a friend about this very idea..  My wife is gonna KILL me...  I think the acronym will change from SWMBO to SWWBRW.  I'm gonna need like 6...............  better start saving my pennies...

-Roger
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: bcwhitehead on April 30, 2010,
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Also the Aether does not need the connector like the ssr4 / Freestyles do to use wireless.
RJ

So, just to be absolutely certain for this newbie (me!), here's the current wireless V2 coop:

********************************
********************************
Kit 1 – Version 2 Tx/Rx Parts Kit
Kit 2 – Version 2 Tx/Rx PCB
Kit 3 –Version 2 TX/RX Case
Kit 4 – Version 2 LE/RX Parts Kit (Lynx Express Receiver)
Kit 5 – Version 2 LE/RX PCB
Kit 6 – LE/RX Header Pin (Allows LE/RX to be used with other Lynx gear like the MR16 Controller, SSR4…etc…)
********************************
********************************

Are Kits 4 & 5 needed for the Aether?  Looks like you say Kit 6 is NOT needed for the Aether.  It seemed like maybe Kits 1, 2 (and 3?) could work too?  Does one Kit set mount inside and one outside?  Or is one better than the other?

Sorry for the stupidity, but just trying to understand this and go the right route for when the Aether is released.

Man, have I got a lot of stuff to build this summer!  These coops are killing me ;)

You have it correct. The EX/RX will mount inside and is cheaper. The TX/RX can be used in RX mode to plug into the Aether externally to also make it wireless. All in what you want to do. The TX/RX will need power also to operate where the EX/RX gets it from the Aether power internally.

RJ

RJ

RJ
I need something clarified for me. I am also a newbie and will  be using the aether on a LOR network through an IDMX would I need the tx/rx or the ex/rx. I am getting confused. Sorry for the repeating questions. From the wiki it seem like I would need the tx/rx?

Thanks Brandon
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: rrowan on April 30, 2010,
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RJ
I need something clarified for me. I am also a newbie and will  be using the aether on a LOR network through an IDMX would I need the tx/rx or the ex/rx. I am getting confused. Sorry for the repeating questions. From the wiki it seem like I would need the tx/rx?

Thanks Brandon

Brandon,

Do you need wireless to the Aether? If not than a simple cat5 cable will work from the idmx (convert is needed I believe).

If you want wireless then

from the idmx you need a lynx TX (convert is also needed here)

the receiver can be either an external unit lynx RX or internal unit the ex/rx

The choice of wireless receiver is up to your needs.

Disclaimer --- I don't own any LOR equipment so the need of a convert is on my guess. Other folks with more knowledge can better answer that

Cheers

Rick R.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Ron on April 30, 2010,
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Disclaimer --- I don't own any LOR equipment so the need of a convert is on my guess. Other folks with more knowledge can better answer that

Cheers

Rick R.

Rick is correct, you need basically a RJ45 cable that swaps a couple of pin positions to make the iDMX work with Lynx equipment.

Another Disclaimer - I don't own any LOR equipment either, but David Moore and I got this working in minutes testing at my home earlier this year.

Ron
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: jnealand on April 30, 2010,
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just a quick note......   stopped by Sears today and happened to wander through their small kitchen appliance area........   found this  http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00867707000P?keyword=electric+griddle&prdNo=4&blockNo=4&blockType=G4 (http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00867707000P?keyword=electric+griddle&prdNo=4&blockNo=4&blockType=G4)  at half price  -- less than $20...   couldn't resist.    Now I have a griddle big enough to handle any SMD I could imagine wanting to do.......   and cook a beavy of pancakes..   

Larry

Good find Larry.  Stopped by Sears to look at this and it is a great deal.  Normally $40, but on sale for $19.  Of course it is physically a big griddle, but the price was way better than the physically smaller units.  Only problem is now my wife wants it.  Maybe we can cook on it until the aether kits start to arrive and then I will either have to buy another one for smt work or steal this one back from her.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on April 30, 2010,
The only thing to watch is that you need a griddle tht can get hot enough. Some large griddles can have an issue getting hot enough to solder well. Not saying these are that way as I do not know. I have not found a site that has tested them so I just picked the one I used based on it was 1500 watts and hoped it worked well.

RJ

Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: tpctech on April 30, 2010,
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Disclaimer --- I don't own any LOR equipment so the need of a convert is on my guess. Other folks with more knowledge can better answer that

Cheers

Rick R.




Rick is correct, you need basically a RJ45 cable that swaps a couple of pin positions to make the iDMX work with Lynx equipment.

Another Disclaimer - I don't own any LOR equipment either, but David Moore and I got this working in minutes testing at my home earlier this year.

Ron
yes you are correct I run a mix of LOR and Lynx with an LOR Idmx.  The diagram is on the wiki.  basically LOR uses the pins 4 and 5 on the RJ45 (typically the blue pair) and Lynx uses pin 1 and 2 the RJ45 (typically the orange pair )

KEN
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: bcwhitehead on May 01, 2010,
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Disclaimer --- I don't own any LOR equipment so the need of a convert is on my guess. Other folks with more knowledge can better answer that

Cheers

Rick R.




Rick is correct, you need basically a RJ45 cable that swaps a couple of pin positions to make the iDMX work with Lynx equipment.

Another Disclaimer - I don't own any LOR equipment either, but David Moore and I got this working in minutes testing at my home earlier this year.

Ron
yes you are correct I run a mix of LOR and Lynx with an LOR Idmx.  The diagram is on the wiki.  basically LOR uses the pins 4 and 5 on the RJ45 (typically the blue pair) and Lynx uses pin 1 and 2 the RJ45 (typically the orange pair )

KEN


Thanks all for clarifying that for me. 

Brandon
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on May 13, 2010,
Assembly Video Manual soon.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: batdive on May 13, 2010,
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Assembly Video Manual soon.

RJ

Ohhh RJ does that mean COOP soon also?  8)
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on May 13, 2010,
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Assembly Video Manual soon.

RJ

Ohhh RJ does that mean COOP soon also?  8)

At this time I am unable to confirm or deny such rumors.   <yk..

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: batdive on May 15, 2010,
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Assembly Video Manual soon.

RJ

Ohhh RJ does that mean COOP soon also?  8)

At this time I am unable to confirm or deny such rumors.   <yk..

RJ


Why do I suddenly get the mental picture of RJ, his dad, and fellow insiders dressed up as the Men in black .....     ;D


Good to hear RJ glad it is coming along as I know you have had plenty on your plate, but Aether looks awesome and just what I have been looking for.

Hey one question, I have seen your previous videos, is Aether going to make a good purple and orange for Halloween set ups?  Also is the pure white able to strobe for a lightening effect?

Thanks in advance,

Bat
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on May 15, 2010,
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Why do I suddenly get the mental picture of RJ, his dad, and fellow insiders dressed up as the Men in black .....     ;D


Good to hear RJ glad it is coming along as I know you have had plenty on your plate, but Aether looks awesome and just what I have been looking for.

Hey one question, I have seen your previous videos, is Aether going to make a good purple and orange for Halloween set ups?  Also is the pure white able to strobe for a lightening effect?

Thanks in advance,

Bat

First - That is Two questions yet you only asked for one question to be answered.  ;D

But being the guy I am, I will answer both since you likely would just repost and ask to ask one more question and that gets old.  <la..   (all of the previous was in fun of course)

I can not answer the color question other than to say it seems to me to do amazing colors. I am part color blind so I am not the one to ask about good xxx color. It does do these colors. Here is a video of it doing random colors, Do you see any that meet you need in there ?

http://www.vimeo.com/10169516

As far as strobing,
 It is a dmx light so you can strobe it about 40 times a second if you want induce siezures on your guest. This can be done in any one of about 17 million colors.

Hope this answers your one ,,, I mean two questions.  ;)

RJ  
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: rdebolt on May 15, 2010,
Hey RJ, How about answering my one question. When is the COOP!?  <pop..
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: rrowan on May 16, 2010,
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Hey RJ, How about answering my one question. When is the COOP!?  <pop..

Normally After the beta testers give RJ their approval.

Rick R.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: rdebolt on May 16, 2010,
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Hey RJ, How about answering my one question. When is the COOP!?  <pop..

Normally After the beta testers give RJ their approval.

Rick R.

That was my slight attempt at humor.  :-[ Obviously it did not work.  ;) I must admit I can't wait though!
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on May 16, 2010,
I am filming the assembly manual at the moment. I will post it in a week or less I expect. Once my beta tester then get one built osing the manual and test it  We can begin a coop.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: rdebolt on May 16, 2010,
Thanks RJ! That is AWESOME news! ;D
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: batdive on May 16, 2010,
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Why do I suddenly get the mental picture of RJ, his dad, and fellow insiders dressed up as the Men in black .....     ;D


Good to hear RJ glad it is coming along as I know you have had plenty on your plate, but Aether looks awesome and just what I have been looking for.

Hey one question, I have seen your previous videos, is Aether going to make a good purple and orange for Halloween set ups?  Also is the pure white able to strobe for a lightening effect?

Thanks in advance,

Bat

First - That is Two questions yet you only asked for one question to be answered.  ;D

But being the guy I am, I will answer both since you likely would just repost and ask to ask one more question and that gets old.  <la..   (all of the previous was in fun of course)

I can not answer the color question other than to say it seems to me to do amazing colors. I am part color blind so I am not the one to ask about good xxx color. It does do these colors. Here is a video of it doing random colors, Do you see any that meet you need in there ?

http://www.vimeo.com/10169516

As far as strobing,
 It is a dmx light so you can strobe it about 40 times a second if you want induce siezures on your guest. This can be done in any one of about 17 million colors.

Hope this answers your one ,,, I mean two questions.  ;)

RJ  

Doh busted. Ok I got excited and asked a second question after my original first.  Thanks for the answers and the video.


-Bat
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on May 19, 2010,
First installment of the video assembly manual.

http://www.vimeo.com/11860195

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: rrowan on May 19, 2010,
Hi RJ,

Nice job on the video. Very clear

Just one problem. You said you would be right back. I sat there waiting and waiting and no RJ :(

Come back :D :D :D

Cheers

Rick R.

P.S.  Looks like bumblebee was quicker off the line  <res.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: lightsup on May 19, 2010,
Nice to see the Man behind the magic. very interesting project, the board is just wonderfull, well designed and lots of room on it. I be glad when I can see a price breakdown of the required parts and leds. Thanks RJ for the innovative thinking for all of us.
Alan.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: bisquit476 on May 19, 2010,
Cool video, now it's  <pop..  on a part 2 or more.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: meman on May 19, 2010,
Great job on the video, I can't wait for the next chapter...and a Coop  :o

Mike E.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: rdebolt on May 19, 2010,
Great video!  ;D I'm with Rick, where did you go? OHHHHH I can't wait! Thanks RJ!

Roger
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: BigGunFish on May 19, 2010,
that looks cool!, can't wait for the coop.

Stephen
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: KeithTarpley on May 19, 2010,
Greetings,,,

RJ obviously went into the Aether...

Nice multi-camera use.  The next step in sequencing...

Keith
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Rod R on May 19, 2010,
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Just one problem. You said you would be right back. I sat there waiting and waiting and no RJ :(

Come back :D :D :D

Cheers

Rick R.

P.S.  Looks like bumblebee was quicker off the line  <res.

Me too Rick I sat there waiting and waiting still no RJ had play the video again just to make sure he said "be right back"  <la..

As always ,nice job RJ can't wait for the coop. <res.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: tbone321 on May 19, 2010,
LOL, that video was great but it reminds me of the joke  How do you keep an ?????? in suspence.  In this case it would be:  post half of the video instruction manual and say I'll be right back.  I do like your idea of setting up a coop for the soldering supplies but you may want to set one of those up prior to the coop for the Aether and possibly adding some of those SMT practice boards offered before.  Looking at that Aether board I can see that it is an expensive one and would personally feel uncomfortable using that board as my first attempt at surface soldering. 
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Jeffl on May 19, 2010,
Video is very professional.  I don't really need any lights but I'm going to take part just for the learning experience.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: ThaiWay on May 19, 2010,
Quite the production, RJ!

John
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: dmaccole on May 19, 2010,
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Quite the production, RJ!

I thought that it was cool that he had set up the studio to look just like the inside of a suburban home's garage. That was a nice touch.

\dmc
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: batdive on May 20, 2010,
Nice video RJ and the only thing that did is make the rest of us start salivating in anticipation of the COOP.    ;D
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on May 21, 2010,
Part 2 of the assembly video.

http://vimeo.com/11917519

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: vairmoose on May 21, 2010,
Excellent video so far...  really gives an idea on what is needed to do it right the first time.   Thanks for putting this together.

Larry

Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: KeithTarpley on May 21, 2010,
Greetings,,,

Well, I guess Star Wars didn't put Vader to the fire until Part 3 either...

Watching for the next episode...

Keith
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Rainlover on May 21, 2010,
This is a real cliffhanger.
Everyone is on the edge of their seat.  <pop..

John
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: zman on May 21, 2010,
Great job so far RJ. This really takes the mystery out of SMD assy/soldering. Can't wait for pt 3.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on May 21, 2010,
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Great job so far RJ. This really takes the mystery out of SMD assy/soldering. Can't wait for pt 3.

As you requested :

Part 3 :

http://www.vimeo.com/11934893

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: lineman on May 21, 2010,
Anyone know if the solder RJ is using is the same as the solder I use with my solderstation 60/40 Rosin core or do I need somethig different
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on May 21, 2010,
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Anyone know if the solder RJ is using is the same as the solder I use with my solderstation 60/40 Rosin core or do I need somethig different

If you mean on the LEDS? yes

The rest is solderpaste as I describe in the first video.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: lineman on May 21, 2010,
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Anyone know if the solder RJ is using is the same as the solder I use with my solderstation 60/40 Rosin core or do I need somethig different

If you mean on the LEDS? yes

The rest is solderpaste as I describe in the first video.

RJ Thanks RJ Sorry I did mean on the LEDS , Now off to walmart for the griddle
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Murl on May 21, 2010,
RJ - just wanted to make sure... 
In the 2nd video at around 9:50 where you were placing the diodes, you said that the line needs to go to the right, "towards the side that isn't perfectly squared off".  But, on your paper, it was the left side that appeared to have the angled corners.

From the video, I couldn't really see the line on the diode.  Does it go on the right?

Thanks!

-Murl
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on May 21, 2010,
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RJ - just wanted to make sure... 
In the 2nd video at around 9:50 where you were placing the diodes, you said that the line needs to go to the right, "towards the side that isn't perfectly squared off".  But, on your paper, it was the left side that appeared to have the angled corners.

From the video, I couldn't really see the line on the diode.  Does it go on the right?

Thanks!

-Murl

You are correct I misspoke. It should be put on as marked which is to the left.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: WWNF911 on May 22, 2010,
Had the same question.  Thanks Murl :)  :)

RJ,

I must say that before I Joined DIYC I had soldered before but never to the extent that I have since Joining DLA. Now I feel really good about my skills and obviously my confidence level is high. Last year I doubted myself as you introduced Surface mount on the TX and RX modules. Your video was great and really helped ease me into that. Even though I used my soldering iron for those parts. :)
Tonight I have watched all 3 videos you've posted so far and am really intrigued as I learn how to use solder paste etc. When I started out in DIY I NEVER would've imagined that I would be doing this stuff.
I am so excited and can't wait for the next installment/ video. Thankyou soooo much for the education and broadening my horizons.

I'm off to find some parts tomorrow. (lighted magifying glass and griddle)    :D

Thanks  RJ


Leon
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on May 22, 2010,
Leon,

 I glad to hear it. I find learning new stuff to be a part of the process I enjoy also. This project has been a great learning tool for me in the area of thermal managment as the ather really puts a lot of power in its package. This means you have to effectively handle the heat.

Anyone have a complete mighty mini with everything to run it I could borrow for a few days to video a side by side comparision? I will pay for the flat rate back and forth.

I think it is time to show how much light the units put out side by side to show a better comparision. I promise to take the filter off my camera this time so I can show the red at all, and all the other colors better.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: zman on May 22, 2010,
That will be a very interesting comparison. Not that I am even considering the Mighty Mini, I am just curious due to all the hype that it has generated.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: prof on May 23, 2010,
RJ

I really enjoyed the videos.  looking forward to the remainder.

In the videos you mention that the Arctic Alumina is used to insulate the LED heatsink from the ground plane.
As soon as the LED is in place on the board, is there a quick check that can be done with your multimeter to make sure that the heatsink is in fact isolated so that a short (if present) can be immediately corrected. As you also state that once the epoxy has set, the LED cannot be removed, thus a problem cannot be readily fixed.

Craig
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on May 23, 2010,
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RJ

I really enjoyed the videos.  looking forward to the remainder.

In the videos you mention that the Arctic Alumina is used to insulate the LED heatsink from the ground plane.
As soon as the LED is in place on the board, is there a quick check that can be done with your multimeter to make sure that the heatsink is in fact isolated so that a short (if present) can be immediately corrected. As you also state that once the epoxy has set, the LED cannot be removed, thus a problem cannot be readily fixed.

Craig
Yes there is its in the text manual along with a few other things I could not cover in the video.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on May 23, 2010,
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Anyone have a complete mighty mini with everything to run it I could borrow for a few days to video a side by side comparision? I will pay for the flat rate back and forth.
RJ

I have some I could ship you - it includes an LOR DC controller (which talks DMX), power supply and two different vendors of LED in the lights.  PM me soon as I am leaving for vacation tommorrow morning and I'd need to get these packed and ready tonight.

David


Thanks David I have one on the way to me already.

RJ
Title: Question for the experts
Post by: Dennis Cherry on May 24, 2010,
Was reading about SMT ovens and noticed some use an infrared lamp to melt the solder paste.

Is that a viable option instead of a griddle?
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on May 24, 2010,
It is just one it is more expensive and two it is more touchy as you can overheat the units easy with them.  You normally should use a reflow profile controller with one so that adds to the expense and the effort. Trust me a $29 griddle works great.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on May 24, 2010,
Last assembly video segment posted :

http://vimeo.com/12005934

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on May 24, 2010,
Had the Aether built in the video outside in the heat running most of the day continous with it wide open. I did not install the optional fan on this unit just for this reason to test with out it. Temps seem to be fine. Tonight had a bright moon so I went out and played with my camera until I could take a picture and the brightness matched the real world. then I took this photo of the Same Aether lighting up a 25 foot raintree in the backyard. If you look to the far right of the pic you can just make out a road at the end of the land. This is what it looks like with your eyes tonight.  I am on the deck which is about 6 ft of the ground and the tree is maybe 40 ft from the camera in the picture. This is with the spot light lenses. Man the thing can throw some light for the few watts of electricity it uses.

I should have images of it beside an Mighty Mini for comparisions after this next weekend if the package gets here this week.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: kj77rn on May 24, 2010,
This thing is amazing.  All four videos are great and I can't wait to experience/learn SMT assembly.  Is the light with you on the deck?
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: vairmoose on May 24, 2010,
I was thinking 4 for christmas....   now I'm thinking 8 or maybe 10 ..  and replace all the corner security lights on the house..    a few for Christmas..   and 1 or 2 for landscaping...    don't tell SWAMBO...  

Adding a motion sensor would probably get someone's attention  <la..

Larry

P.S.    well done on the videos...     My concern for the SMD has been significantly abated...
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: kj77rn on May 24, 2010,
I'm guessing a motion sensor could be used in place of the manual switch?  Or even a light sensor?
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on May 24, 2010,
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This thing is amazing.  All four videos are great and I can't wait to experience/learn SMT assembly.  Is the light with you on the deck?

Yes it is. I am standing beside it with the camera.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on May 24, 2010,
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I was thinking 4 for christmas....   now I'm thinking 8 or maybe 10 ..  and replace all the corner security lights on the house..    a few for Christmas..   and 1 or 2 for landscaping...    don't tell SWAMBO...  

Adding a motion sensor would probably get someone's attention  <la..

Larry

P.S.    well done on the videos...     My concern for the SMD has been significantly abated...

Thanks,

 Yes the SMD is nothing to be afriad of. For the record the light you watched me assemble is the light you see being tested and lighting the tree and I did not touch up of any solder joint on it after you saw it on the griddle. I programmed the pic and mounted it in the case.

I have a few other videos to do yet one of which is mounting it in the case. And the other is the wireless and optional fan Which I am about to drop as I do not think it needs it.

RJ

The griddle does the work it is not rocket science.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on May 24, 2010,
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I'm guessing a motion sensor could be used in place of the manual switch?  Or even a light sensor?

Yes you could use the Manual setup on the pcb to be trigger by anything that will close a circuit.

The light does not run on 12volt as I had hoped but I did set it up for the ability to feed it 24v DC like the other diy floods for anyone that wanted to. It has to be DC not AC.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Caliente Christmas on May 25, 2010,
Well with all that said, you had me at " Hello "


Can't wait for the coop. 

Nice Job RJ

 <md.. Caliente Christmas  <md..
Title: Video Part 4
Post by: ThaiWay on May 25, 2010,
Wow RJ... you really had me worried!  There I was staring at the board looking for special markings where the transformer goes... and then trying to read the voltage rating every time the transformer came into view... without much success.

Phew!  Finally at 29:47 I hear the magic words "potentially at 240... if someone does the little mod that'll be in the appendix."

As always, you got it covered!

John
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Cobergas on May 26, 2010,
 <pop.. I think it is time to bite on this one. I have went through the whole thread and watched the videos now I wanna get involved. The bug has bitten again. Not sure the status on Bill but the sidekick in interested.

GA Mafia.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on May 27, 2010,
Well,

 I received the Mighty Mini today.  Hooked it up temp like so I could put it side by side with the Aether.  I will be doing a video to show them this weekend but I was wrong on my estimates. I had said I felt the Aether would put out about 2 times the light and at this point I will say 3 - 4 times the light. There is not much comparision between the two. I am not saying the mighty mini is not bright. It just is not in the same class with an Aether. I would need maybe three to do what one Aether can do. I did the video with my photo camera so it is not the best. I will have a much better demo of the two after this weekend.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on May 30, 2010,
I'm am working to setup a quick beta for the Aether and will need to get the coop moving as some of the parts are not stock in large enough quanititys so there will be wait time on them.

A few things to be aware of,

There will be only one coop this year for the Aether and this will be based on enough quanity to hit a price break worth the effort for the coop manager.

Do to a number of reasons including part cost in one quanitities and the dead requirement of no subisitute parts for the project the Aether will not be offered as a PCB only option at anytime as far out as I can see. There will be no extra pcbs ordered only enough for the coop kits.

I have posted 4 build videos for everyone to see what is involved in building an Aether. It is easily within the ability of anyone wanting to.

The coop will be under $100 for the kit. How much under I can not say yet but low end would be in the $85 range. This will build a flood light thats capabilites I have not seen matched for under $500 - $600.

Do not confuse this with the $40 and $50 options which are just leds on a board that you supply the power supply and controller. This is a complete self contained unit that includes the power supply and controller. It does not use cheap chinese leds, it uses top of the line high performance leds with much higher power, more light per watt and much better reliabilty. It uses constant current to drive the leds to insure maximum output with maximum life of the led.

The output of this flood is far beyond there abilities. 

It has built in temp monitoring of the leds to insure you can never do anything dumb with the unit and over heat it. The unit will limit output if needed all the way to shutting it off to keep the temps in the optimum range. While it is highly unlikely you would operate it in conditions requiring it I wanted it bullet proof.

The light runs off of 120v AC (240v AC with a mod) or 24 v DC (DC only).

It operates off of any DMX source including the wireless of which an EX/RX can be built in to it to make it a stand alone power only required device.

It has a manual feature that allows a toggle switch to be added to the back of the case to turn the light on maximum white output manually with no dmx only power supplied. This is handy for aimming while setting up or for using it as a worklight.

You can add lens to the unit to change the angle of the light throw to taylor it for you needs. These lens are cost effective and come in 30 deg, 15 deg and 6 deg.

I will be releasing firmware for it later that makes one of them act as a master to control any others attached to it and run stand alone color transistions for house, landscape, pool type lighting applications. These will only require power and a cat5 cable daisy chained between them to get the commands back and forth to the slaves. No computer will be needed to do this.
 

RJ

 
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Rod R on May 30, 2010,
Thanks for the "Heads Up" RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on May 30, 2010,
Video of some testing for your entertainment!

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: justdoug on May 31, 2010,
The Aether rocks!  I was excited about my first LE coop, and the wireless coop, but this one is over the top.

I expect most people to use make use of this light both in their display at Christmas and around the house the rest of the year.  Mine will be doing landscape duty at the cottage in the summer.

Do you know what the LED life expectancy is?
Do you expect to include the 18 (6 LED x 3 angles) lenses in the coop?
Since the Aether cases are readily available, I'm assuming they won't be part of the coop.  Please confirm.

Thanks for your hard work and attention to detail.

...Doug.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: CW on May 31, 2010,
Hey RJ
I am really excited that this will be my first DIY project.  You have put so much thought and design experience into Aether that is just hard to put words to.  I am not a chatty person, and you have drawn me out with this project.  I hope I can contribute even just a little.

I have a question, how far do you think it will illuminate in distance?  I have a 70' cedar tree next to my home and I have always wanted to decorate for Christmas, and this may just to that.

Thanks and I really look forward to being part of this group.

Craig
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: rrowan on May 31, 2010,
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Video of some testing for your entertainment!

RJ

Yeah but where is the snow and ice?

Joking

Rick R.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: golights on May 31, 2010,
RJ,  I read your earlier post on the aether coop and the reasoning for your thoughts.  Not offering a pcb option makes senses in some ways, but I would like to see more than one coop for the aether this year.  Because this is a new project and the cost might be prohibitive for some, makes having more than one coop  ideal.  I could see my self having up to 12 of these led fixtures, but not truly knowing the effectiveness of or  the limitations of the fixture I would prefer to purchase maybe 2 to begin with and see if the usefulness of the fixture out ways the costs.  Having only one coop for the aether makes that difficult.  If only one coop was to be offered this year than I think pcb's should be offered.  This is a DIY site and the DMX dongle is a prime example of how the members work together to find suitable parts when mousers is out of stock. Ultimately this will be your decision to make, but seeing the amount of time and energy you have spent on this project and how proud you are of its outcome, I would hope that maybe another coop would be offered this year.   As always thank you for your hard work and love of DIY.  We as members have grown from your being a part of our lives.     
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: rrowan on May 31, 2010,
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RJ,  I read your earlier post on the aether coop and the reasoning for your thoughts.  Not offering a pcb option makes senses in some ways, but I would like to see more than one coop for the aether this year.  Because this is a new project and the cost might be prohibitive for some, makes having more than one coop  ideal.  I could see my self having up to 12 of these led fixtures, but not truly knowing the effectiveness of or  the limitations of the fixture I would prefer to purchase maybe 2 to begin with and see if the usefulness of the fixture out ways the costs.  Having only one coop for the aether makes that difficult.  If only one coop was to be offered this year than I think pcb's should be offered.  This is a DIY site and the DMX dongle is a prime example of how the members work together to find suitable parts when mousers is out of stock. Ultimately this will be your decision to make, but seeing the amount of time and energy you have spent on this project and how proud you are of its outcome, I would hope that maybe another coop would be offered this year.   As always thank you for your hard work and love of DIY.  We as members have grown from your being a part of our lives.     

Wow, I would not want to be anywhere near RJ's house for that talk. "Honey we need to cancel our Wedding Anniversary trip so I can have more than one coop for the Aether this year. Forget all about the hours of planning all the money deposit for airfare, boat, hotels, etc. I know we have been married all of this years and the coop does not benefit us at all but ....."

Nah, One coop should be plenty. Order a few Aether's this year and be able to expand next year if you like.

Cheers

Rick R.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Caliente Christmas on May 31, 2010,
Here, Here

One Coop is good enough,  so much more to get together and five and half months to go.  I think with so many new members coming onboard that a couple small express coops will benefit them over the Aether.  Aether is more of a bonus to what we have established already.  I admit the Aether is a great tool and benefits many needs, but I think with what we have seen 1 or 2 Aethers will amaze viewers. 

Well thats just my two cents. 

 <md.. Caliente Christmas  <md..
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: BryanV on May 31, 2010,
we should be very thankful for all that RJ has done for us.  Like Rick stated we can't expect RJ to put his life on hold so others can benefit.  Order what you can afford this time and plan for the next coop.
Let's not get greedy <res.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: BigGunFish on June 01, 2010,
Thanks RJ, I look forward to playing with this one.

Stephen
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on June 01, 2010,
Their are many reasons it would not be possible for the Aether to have more than one coop this year. One is that the lead times on some of the parts we are looking at are 2 months. With such lead times and the time a coop takes to run get paid to be able to order it would not be practical to have two. The seond one likely would not finish in time for anyone to build them.
 

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: batdive on June 01, 2010,
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Their are many reasons it would not be possible for the Aether to have more than one coop this year. One is that the lead times on some of the parts we are looking at are 2 months. With such lead times and the time a coop takes to run get paid to be able to order it would not be practical to have two. The seond one likely would not finish in time for anyone to build them.
 

RJ

Yes 1 is good, drive prices down to like 30 bucks each  ::)  So every boy and girl can have well at least 6?
Title: ReAether Project
Post by: Dlights on June 12, 2010,
I was wondering about the time frame for the first coop start for the Aether. Does anyone  have any further information at this time ? 

I would also like to add my appreciation for all the  hard work and dedication that RJ has contributed, for the benefit of all . Hat's off to you sir ! 

Dlights
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: n1ist on June 13, 2010,
While I would love them at $30, the cost of the LEDs alone is around twice that in quantity.
/mike
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on June 13, 2010,
Mike is correct on the cost. The unit is in beta and the last parts are expected early this week. So it all depends on the beta and if it all works OK so I get the go ahead.

How fast the coop happens will be dependant on the coop manager after that.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: lortiz on June 14, 2010,
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Their are many reasons it would not be possible for the Aether to have more than one coop this year. One is that the lead times on some of the parts we are looking at are 2 months. With such lead times and the time a coop takes to run get paid to be able to order it would not be practical to have two. The seond one likely would not finish in time for anyone to build them.
 

RJ

Hi RJ,

Suggestion on the parts that have long lead time.

Can a COOP be created to buy these parts alone ? I am planning for example to order 3 Aether units on this first coop but will  order more and more in future coops and would not like these parts to be unavailable at that time, so I would order 10 now (example) in this special COOP....

Just thinking  : )
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on June 14, 2010,
I believe this would lead to too many issues I would prefer we leave the coops to where you order a complete coop kit for one device. Alot of these items are new and once the coop runs the stock should start to come up like other units in the past. The coop manager and I will work to overcome the lead times as much as possible. Sometimes if we have enough we can work other channels to get stuff quicker. Sort of like the 529 unit express coop when no one had transformers and the lead was 8 weeks. I had them on the ground here in 4 days. We will do all we can to make it as soon as possible to everyone.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on June 14, 2010,
The final video in the Aether build series is up. This is the case installation. I am sorry it is so long but It takes much longer to explain than it does to do.  ;D

http://www.vimeo.com/12556448

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: rmonty on June 17, 2010,
Thanks for the videos RJ.  I assume the parts that will not be provided, and that you are calling out in the video, will be listed on the Wiki or on this site somewhere?  Thanks!

Ryan
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: lortiz on June 17, 2010,
Hi RJ,

Could you please check the portable light from Harbor Freight Tools, item #66433 and let us know if it is the same exact fixture as the one you are using from Northern Industrial? If so then we can use this supplier as alternate source.

Northern Industrial does not have the dimension specs on their fixture.

Thanks,
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: packetbob on June 17, 2010,
Not sure if I should start another thread for this but I'm wondering what the 120 V AC current draw is at full brightness? In anticipation of the comming coop I am starting to source out the parts I'll need and for my application I will need some custom length power cables.

Wondering what the full load current draw will be so I can size the cabtie cables I need to get?

Thanks,
Bob
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: austindave on June 17, 2010,
Bob,

If I remember correctly (which, I admit, I may not), RJ said these are 3W LEDs. Six of those would be 18W. If you assume VERY worst case & say the power supply efficiency is only 50%, that would lead to a 36W power draw. Adding a lot of extra slop for safety, I would plan for - like - 1/2 amp at 120 volts (that's one half amp). Actual value is probably more like 1/4 Amp, but for planning purposes, 1/2 amp should be a good ballpark.

Note that for safety planning purposes, the fuse size specified for the Aether (which, as far as I know, has not yet been provided) times 1.5 would be the maximum worst-case value.

Hope this helps.

--Dave
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on June 21, 2010,
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Hi RJ,

Could you please check the portable light from Harbor Freight Tools, item #66433 and let us know if it is the same exact fixture as the one you are using from Northern Industrial? If so then we can use this supplier as alternate source.

Northern Industrial does not have the dimension specs on their fixture.

Thanks,

Appears to be but can not say 100% for sure with out ordering one. Make sure it is not black the inside will get hot from the sun. We want the case to remove heat not bring it in.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on June 21, 2010,
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Not sure if I should start another thread for this but I'm wondering what the 120 V AC current draw is at full brightness? In anticipation of the comming coop I am starting to source out the parts I'll need and for my application I will need some custom length power cables.

Wondering what the full load current draw will be so I can size the cabtie cables I need to get?

Thanks,
Bob

Fuse is 1 amp in the unit. The load is less but for safety use that as you guide.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Gary on June 23, 2010,
RJ, accuse me of wanting to be spoon-fed, but could the various screws, nuts, L-shaped pieces of aluminum, et cetera be included in the co-op kits?

For the Lynx Expresses I put together, I can't imagine how much more time and effort going to the store and looking for the exact fit screws, nuts, and spacers it would have involved if I had to go to the hardware store to buy all those little pieces for the 16 channels' heatsink assembly. And more often than not, the screws we'd need aren't available in bulk, so we would have to pay through the nose for those ridiculous blister packs where we'd end up having all these extra screws that would just get dumped into the growing can of miscellaneous screws we hall have, but rarely use because it's a pain to search through them all to find a set of matching ones afterwards. And the Aether has bunch more different screws and nuts than the Lynx Express. As helpful as it is to have the Home Depot part/SKU/barcode numbers, I live in Canada and the numbers are likely different, and I'd have to make several trips back and forth to the store until I get exactly what I need.

If the screws were included in the co-op kits, they can be bought in bulk, and even if our cost to assemble an Aether didn't decrease as a result, at least think of the number (hundreds) of people who don't have to go to the store and look for the stuff. Think of the carbon footprint saved!  :D


And while I'm whining...  :)  I'm still new to this, but I thought that the data wiring for DIY Christmas Light blinky flashy is generally CAT5 with RJ45 connectors... and then in the video I see the round DMX connectors on the outside of the light's casing.  I would have imagined something like this:

http://www.alibaba.com/product-gs/242863818/RJ45_Jacket_Waterproof_Connector.html (http://www.alibaba.com/product-gs/242863818/RJ45_Jacket_Waterproof_Connector.html)

Plus, from the looks of the example above, it requires drilling only one hole to mount, rather than three that have to be precision-drilled (and more prone to mistakes and leaks!). Plus, there are less screws to deal with.  ;)

So, RJ, buddy, what do you think about my pleas?
 <yk..

Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: deplanche on June 25, 2010,
When the testing is done, and the coop gets going, do you think it would be possible to have an option for including a DVD with the how-to videos on it?
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: deweycooter on June 25, 2010,
If you log in to vimeo, you can download the files directly.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on June 25, 2010,
It will be up to the coop manager that runs the coop weither they include hardware.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: wbuehler on July 03, 2010,
Beta Build Pics

Here are some pics of the beta build process.  SMD parts have been flowed, LED have been glued to PCB and ohm checked against board for shorts.
The LED's still need to be soldered and the rest of the board finished up.

You will see pics of the paste being applied, the board being flowed, and LED's being attached.

Bill

Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: wbuehler on July 03, 2010,
More Pics

Bill

Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: wbuehler on July 03, 2010,
Even More Pics

Bill

Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: rrowan on July 04, 2010,
Hi Bill


Looks great!!

Cheers

Rick R.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: wbuehler on July 04, 2010,
PCB Build Complete.  ;D
Now it just needs a case.

This light is
BRIGHT
[/size][/color]

The pic that show channel 4 (White) RED, GREEN, And Blue On is at 65 out of 255.  At this low setting it's blinding the camera

Bill

Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: KeithTarpley on July 04, 2010,
Greetings,,,

Nice work, Bill.

Keith
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on July 04, 2010,
Video ... Video ... Video ...   

 ;D

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: wbuehler on July 04, 2010,
Per Request

Some Video

Bill

Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: bisquit476 on July 04, 2010,
Awesome video Bill,

Bill
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on July 04, 2010,
Great Bill!

Glad you got her together and its a working. They are some bright lights! I hope to have time to get 5 on the coop and build them this year. I got a number of things to use them on.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: wbuehler on July 05, 2010,
Cool

I plan on getting 6 more myself, I need to simulate the sun.

(Working on Co-Op costs sheets now)  ;D

Bill

Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: bisquit476 on July 05, 2010,
Talking of Cool,

RJ,

Did you decide the fan option was not needed because of the temp limiting circuit, even here in FL?
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: RJ on July 05, 2010,
I have dropped the fan option. This will only be an issue if the temp is 90 f or higher and you put it in direct sun with it set to white at full intensity for more than about an hour. Since white puts out three times the power of the other colors it will engage the temp limiting to lower the output at this point. 


I felt this was a fair balence since it would make little sense to use it in this type of conditions and if truely needed for this it would only require a reduction of light level to drop the temps to operate in these conditions.

RJ
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: wbuehler on July 05, 2010,
More Pics, and some oops pics.

Bill

Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: wbuehler on July 05, 2010,
More Pics

Bill

Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: wbuehler on July 05, 2010,
Wireless test video

Bill

Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: Trike on July 06, 2010,
I was curious how difficult it was to solder the SMD components? I've never done SMD before but can do through hole without breaking a sweat. I can't wait to get a few of these, just a little worried if i'll screw it up or not.

Thanks
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: wbuehler on July 06, 2010,
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I was curious how difficult it was to solder the SMD components? I've never done SMD before but can do through hole without breaking a sweat. I can't wait to get a few of these, just a little worried if i'll screw it up or not.

Thanks

If you follow the video and use the needle sizes stated (These will be available as a Co-Op Kit option) you will do fine.
Title: Re: Project updates
Post by: ThaiWay on July 06, 2010,
Congrats on the build and thanks for the vid Bill!

John