Wireless Power Cut Off

[Ninebar]

Hi everbody,

I've been wanting to get some sort of wireless emergency switch that i could cut the power to my lasers. I have the normal button switch at my desk.
Problem is sometimes i like to go down and have a look and listen to the event but i always gotta get someone too stand guard at the desk just in case. Id like to have a wireless key fob too cut off power at any given time

Is there a common solution for this situation?

Cheers

[Galvonaut]

Hey Ninebar

I think a wireless safety systen might be an issue, although the first thing that came to mind was this OSC application.

Usually a safety device should not be dependant on software. A normal safety interlock will turn the lasers off if the connection to the switch is unplugged and I'm not sure if this is possible with software but someone else might be able to suggest a solution.

Keith

[gashead]

A common solution for a laser op would be perhaps to hit your estop remove the key and lock your computer.

But as sir galvo has said estop is generally implemented in an analogue fashion. If the circuit is broken emissions stop. (Or should stop... There are some safety systems that require a pull to ground to halt.. pffft)

It's not a impossibility to have a wireless estop but it does raise more concerns than it addresses imho.

Cheers,
Nige.

[sbk]

I use a wireless keyfob to control the physical shutters in all my projectors, and it is complementary to the main emergency stop and the security system.

The only board I found to be reliable enough is from National Control Devices, this board : http://www.controlanything.com/Relay/Device/KLRR25_USB and this key fob : http://www.controlanything.com/Relay/Device/KF8_EXT

[TechJunkie]

Not sure if this is what you need, but worth looking at. DX has other combinations as well.

http://dx.com/p/wireless-remote-cont...126958?item=10

[hitekvoop]

As a convenience (and backup to wired e-stop) I use Belkin WeMo adapters on all the mains cables to my lasers as well as my hazer. Not sure this would've been my first choice, but since I received two as a gift and had the chance to try them out I was pleasantly surprised with their function. I currently run a 5Ghz-only hidden SSID WPA2-protected wifi hotspot at my gigs and use a dedicated ipod (set to never turn off) with the control app up. I've had very consistent operation. Certainly not an inexpensive way to go (at ~$40-50usd each) but hey, it's only money, right?

Update Edit: I've since abandoned trying to use the Wemo devices. One usually works ok, but more than that in many environments it's flaky.

[White-Light]

Pangolin PASS is pretty much the only thing I can think of that will potentially allow you to remove the wired safety link with any confidence.