On 13/1/25 05:49, Nate Bargmann wrote:
As the knowledge base on this list is wide and deep, I am asking to cut through the commercial clutter. Ideally, what I would like to find is a WiFi (802.11a/b/g) capable device that would plug into the end of an extension cord (common US NEMA 5-15 receptacle/plug) and allow me to activate power to the connected device (in this case engine block warmer) over the network via some scripting and cron jobs.
There are two basic technologies that can be used. WiFi and Zigbee using a range of smart end devices.
WiFi seems to be mostly proprietary and usually requires an internet connection. Zigbee is also proprietary but doesn't require an internet connection.
In both cases there is a wide hacker community that allows devices to be modified, firmware replaced, and proprietary (i.e. subscription) features removed.
I recommend looking at Zigbee to start with. You need to buy a USB to Zigbee converter for the controller, for which there are Linux driver packages. Then you need a matching Zigbee end device.
In my use-case, end devices require AC mains connection and can switch around 10 amps AC - I am switching lights off and on.
One relatively safe approach is to look at the Ikea Dirigera series. It has a strong hacker community and many user guides.
