View Single Post
  #2  
Old 13-02-2010, 09:41 AM
bert's Avatar
bert (Brett)
Automation nut

bert is offline
 
Join Date: Mar 2008
Location: Bathurst
Posts: 667
I have. It is controlled by ascom too!

I install garage doors/ gate systems for a living.

If you are talking about a sectional operator its not that hard. The trouble is most of the operators have a rolling command structure, ie push button opens, push again closes. Not really desirable, for example you roof is shut and the rain sensor throws a command and the roof will open. I have converted 6 rooves using sectional operators now and they work quite well upto about 2.4 metre throw.

I usually throw out the electronics that come with the operator and use a different controller that allow ascom to control it with seperate open, close, stop inputs. And this board allow me to use limit switches, voltage/speed control, ramp up and ramp down, cloud/rain sensor inputs and heaps of other features.

Be aware that there are huge differences in quality between garage door operators. Make sure they are DC POWERED AND NOT AC. Ac usually has more grunt but you dont want the hassle of 240v.

If I get around to it I'll have to update my observatory thread to show what I have done. If you want I can make up a complete ascom controller the same as mine to work with a dc motor/ garage door operator. Doomsayer has also got one on his observatory, but his is a little more complicated.

Brett
Reply With Quote