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alanchow

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  1. Upvote
    alanchow got a reaction from Dueport in Chowmain - Konnected BlaQ driver for Chamberlain / Liftmaster integration   
    We pride ourselves in being the largest and best driver developer.  As such support is important to us. Chowmain provides 19 hours of technical support via phone, chat and ticket a day (mon - fri) manned by a team of 6.
    We want to ensure our customers are happy with the driver before they commit so we provide a 90 day trial.  This 90 days is plenty to get a understanding of if the driver is right to you.
    I know you have a solution now so this driver probably isn't for you however you should reach out to the MyQ driver developer in regards to your grievances.  I am not sure if they can provide you with a refund or not but might be worth a shot.
  2. Upvote
    alanchow got a reaction from C4 User in Chowmain - Konnected BlaQ driver for Chamberlain / Liftmaster integration   
    This is a snippet from konnecteds FAQ on their BlaQ product page 
     
     
    Why choose Konnected’s GDO blaQ instead of ratgdo?
    ratgdo (Rage Against the Garage Door Opener) is the open source project that inspired and powers the Konnected’s GDO blaQ. It’s a DIY control board and software that pioneered the direct serial connection to the encrypted Security+ openers. We’ve taken the concept and technology in ratgdo and made it into a finished product, suitable for installation in any home, and compliant with regulations in the United States. We’ve added safety features like an audible and visual warning, a sleek plastic enclosure, integrations with a variety of smart home platforms, 7-days per week support and a 1-year warranty.
    Yes, the GDO blaQ costs a few dollars more than a ratgdo board. We are not competing on price with the original ratgdo. We believe that the GDO blaQ justifies the higher price because of the additional compliance, safety, support and integration features
  3. Like
    alanchow got a reaction from IBZICON in Controlling a gas fireplace   
    There are multiple solutions for fireplace integration.  I have listed the drivers below that we have for fireplace integration with my preference being Escea or Rinnai as they are both IP so out of box no additional wiring with bi-directional control/feedback.
    Escea / Stoke Fireplaces (IP Driver) - https://www.chowmainsoft.com/escea Rinnai Firepalces (FREE IP Driver) - https://www.chowmainsoft.com/rinnai-fireplace-control4 DaVinci Fireplaces (RS232 Driver) - https://www.chowmainsoft.com/davinci-control4 Bond Bridge (IP / RF Control Driver) - https://www.chowmainsoft.com/bond-control4  
  4. Like
    alanchow got a reaction from cylon147 in Chowmain - Anthem MRX-SLM driver (FREE)   
    Overview
    Meet MRX SLM - a game-changing audio device that offers exceptional performance in a compact design. Unlike traditional AV receivers, this slim receiver from Anthem provides premium sound quality without taking up too much space.
    MRX SLM is an ideal choice for installers who want to deliver top-notch audio in home theaters or media rooms. With 1 HDMI input and 1 output, plus eARC, it's easy to seamlessly integrate with your clients' smart TVs or projectors. MRX SLM supports Dolby Vision, HDR, and Hybrid Log Gamma, ensuring that Ultra HD signals pass through unaltered at speeds of up to 18.2 Gbps.
    The MRX SLM offer a wide range of streaming options from local and internet sources including Apple AirPlay, Google Cast, and Bluetooth. This means you can easily stream music from your favorite devices directly to the MRX SLM for high-quality sound performance. With these convenient features, you can enjoy your music with ease and convenience, without sacrificing sound quality.
    Driver Features
    IP Control SDDP Enabled Control4 Certified Auto Room On when manually switched to Bluetooth or Streaming input (eg Google Cast or Airplay starts a stream remotely) Speaker Profile control from Navigator Dolby Digital Dynamic Range control from Navigator Commands Volume Up/Down/Set Mute On/Off/Toggle Set Input Power On/Off Set Speaker Profile Set Audio Listening Modes Set Dolby Digital Dynamic Range Skip Previous Skip Next Play / Pause Stop Discrete Balance Up/Down/Discrete Bass Up/Down/Discrete Treble Feedback Volume Mute Power Input Speaker Profile (via navigator) Dolby Digital Dynamic Range (via navigator) Now Playing Meta Data & Artwork FAQ 
    What hardware will this work on?
    This driver will work for the following models. It may also work with future models.
    Anthem MRX-SLM What cool things can this driver do?
    This driver can set speaker profiles via any Control4 navigator by selecting the Anthem Settings 'device' under Listen. Feedback is provided for the current selected profile on the current input as well. This driver can set dolby digital dynamic range via any Control4 navigator by selecting the Anthem Settings 'device' under Listen. Feedback is provided for the current selected dolby digtal mode on the current input as well. This driver can set 'surround' modes via any touch screen navigator via selecting the receiver device under Listen. No feedback is provided as the receiver proxy does not provide feedback for surround modes. This driver will automatically select the streaming source if the AVR switches to a stream. This is done in case the end user uses Google Cast, Spotify Connect or Apple Airplay to turn on the AVR. This also happens upon manual control of Bluetooth. Cover Art, meta data and transport controls are available for streams. Feedback is instantaneous. This means you can program against events like Power On, Power Off, Input Switching, Surround Modes, Mute and More. Physically interacting with the MRX will fire these events and programming (eg turn off all AV devices in the room when the MRX is powered off). How much does this driver cost?
    This driver is sponsored by Anthem and is FREE of charge
    How do I find out more information about the driver?
    Please see the links below for more information about the driver.
    Driver Link

  5. Like
    alanchow got a reaction from markc in Hikvision Doorstation Custom Firmware   
    Still a work in progress.  Please hold off on ordering hardware until we announce a release as it is pending work from Hikvisions end.  No changes to the driver.
  6. Upvote
    alanchow got a reaction from Alex Bate in Recommendation for smart outlets?   
    For UK (and EU) outlets check out Lightwave RF.  Note that you will need their Link Plus hub as well.
    They make a wide range of colours / finishes.  See below for two examples.
    https://shop.lightwaverf.com/collections/all/category-power
    Driver here
    https://chowmain.software/drivers/control4-lightwave-link-plus


  7. Like
    alanchow got a reaction from BY96 in Recommendation for smart outlets?   
    For UK (and EU) outlets check out Lightwave RF.  Note that you will need their Link Plus hub as well.
    They make a wide range of colours / finishes.  See below for two examples.
    https://shop.lightwaverf.com/collections/all/category-power
    Driver here
    https://chowmain.software/drivers/control4-lightwave-link-plus


  8. Upvote
    alanchow got a reaction from turls in Chowmain - athom Human Presence Sensor Driver (mmWave)   
    Overview
     
    The Athom Human Presence Sensor is a multifaceted device designed to enhance smart home automation systems by detecting human presence with high precision. It incorporates mmWave and PIR (Passive Infrared) technologies for detecting human presence, micro-motions, and overall human motion within a specified area. Furthermore the device incorporates a luminance sensor for lux level feedback. Combined this allows for a more nuanced and responsive approach to lighting automation, adjusting lighting conditions not just based on motion, but on the actual presence of individuals in a space and based on current lighting conditions.
    Driver Features
    IP Control Auto install / Binding of official Control4 Motion Sensor driver for following sensors PIR mmWave Occupancy Light/Lux Level feedback Events for Lux below minimum specified value Lux above maximum specified value mmWave Sensor Sense Motion mmWave Sensor Stops Sense Motion Occupancy Sensor Sense Motion Occupancy Sensor Stops Sense Motion PIR Sensor Sense Motion PIR Sensor Stops Sense Motion Automated lighting through driver Selection of 1 or more lights through driver Ability to set brightness and fade times Ability to select which sensors to utilise for automated lighting If any of the monitored sensor is detecting it will turn on lights If all of the monitored sensors are not detecting it will turn the lights off after a designed period of time. Ability to automate lighting based on lux level Ability to enable / disable through programming FAQ
    Why is this product so exciting?
    Traditionally you would utilise a PIR based motion sensor. This is not effective when monitoring spaces with stationary individuals, such as those seated for extended periods. With the athom Human Presence Sensor you combine multiple sensors for occupancy. The PIR sensor will trigger fast and the mmWave sensor will determine presence even when stationary. Combined this provides an speedy, yet accurate method of determining if a room is occupied. Add to this a lux level sensor and we have everything we need for automating lighting and shades in a single device.
    What hardware will this work on?
    This driver is designed for the Athom Human Presence Sensor (model PS01) with ESPHome firmware.
    It is a USB-C powered Wi-Fi device which can be purchased from US, Germany, Sydney or China with US, UK, EU or A power adapters. Please make sure you order the model with the ESP Home firmware.
    Are there any installation precautions?
    athom recommends the following.
    Choose a suitable installation location away from air conditioners, curtains, fans, plants, etc. to avoid interference. Avoid direct beam irradiation on the ground, walls or doors to minimize reflections and indirect detections. Configure appropriate detection distance, sensitivity and delay time to reduce interference from objects. Keep the sensor surface clean and free from dust and obstacles. Ensure the sensor has enough space around it for proper air circulation. Also note that mmWave radar will travel through walls. As such you will need to be aware of placement and also sensitivity settings.
    What are the lux events and LUX_LEVEL variable used for?
    You can set the minimum and maximum lux events in programming If the current lux level goes below the value set in 'Lux Minimum' it will fire the 'Lux below minimum specified value' If the current lux level goes above the value set in 'Lux Maximum' it will fire the 'Lux above maximum specified value' The LUX_LEVEL variable is exposed so you can program against the current lux level detected in that location. This is useful for programming shading, lighting and other automation tasks that require light level feedback. How does automated lighting work?
    The driver has built in automated lighting functionality. This can be set up in the driver's programming without any custom programming. You can choose which sensors to utilise in the logic. If you choose more than one then the automated lighting will trigger if any one of the sensors is triggered. We recommend leaving it on the default of 'Occupancy and PIR' If you wish to take lux levels (eg light from windows) into account then set the 'Automated Lights Rules'. You can choose between the Lux Minimum and Lux Maximum. For both it will trigger if the levels are below the values You can choose which lights to trigger using the 'Lights Triggered' selection. Fade Time and Brightness will set the fade time for on and off and the brightness for on. Auto Off After (Seconds) is used to set the period the driver turns the lights off after all sensors selected in the 'Automated Lighting Sensors' are not detecting simultaneously. If any one of the sensors triggers during this period it will cancel. Do you offer any other cool drivers?
    Control4 is a major part of our business. We develop new drivers all the time. You can see all of our drivers on our website (https://chowmain.software). Sign up to our newsletter to get notified when new drivers are released.
    I want to try this driver out before buying it?
    All Chowmain drivers for Control4 come with a 90 day trial.
    Where can i find out more?
    You can find out more about the driver from the following link.
    Driver Product Page
     

  9. Like
    alanchow got a reaction from Neo1738 in Anyone tried ratgdo for Garage Door?   
    I have heard some feedback from a few users.  It may be due to rebooting of controllers but hard to say as i haven't experienced it myself.  I've made some improvements to the way i'm handling controller reboots and the way we are sending feedback so the next version should resolve this problem.
  10. Like
    alanchow got a reaction from Neo1738 in Anyone tried ratgdo for Garage Door?   
    This actually isn't that hard to implement.  In fact i've just done it.
    I'll run it in beta for a few days and if it works well will release.  Delays any movement by x seconds.  Flashes the built in garage door light and automates firing of an announcement before any movement (pulls in the annoucements and allows you to select the announcement).  Also has an event if someone wants to do something custom like hook up a buzzer or something via a relay.


  11. Upvote
    alanchow got a reaction from Andrew luecke in Chowmain - athom Human Presence Sensor Driver (mmWave)   
    Overview
     
    The Athom Human Presence Sensor is a multifaceted device designed to enhance smart home automation systems by detecting human presence with high precision. It incorporates mmWave and PIR (Passive Infrared) technologies for detecting human presence, micro-motions, and overall human motion within a specified area. Furthermore the device incorporates a luminance sensor for lux level feedback. Combined this allows for a more nuanced and responsive approach to lighting automation, adjusting lighting conditions not just based on motion, but on the actual presence of individuals in a space and based on current lighting conditions.
    Driver Features
    IP Control Auto install / Binding of official Control4 Motion Sensor driver for following sensors PIR mmWave Occupancy Light/Lux Level feedback Events for Lux below minimum specified value Lux above maximum specified value mmWave Sensor Sense Motion mmWave Sensor Stops Sense Motion Occupancy Sensor Sense Motion Occupancy Sensor Stops Sense Motion PIR Sensor Sense Motion PIR Sensor Stops Sense Motion Automated lighting through driver Selection of 1 or more lights through driver Ability to set brightness and fade times Ability to select which sensors to utilise for automated lighting If any of the monitored sensor is detecting it will turn on lights If all of the monitored sensors are not detecting it will turn the lights off after a designed period of time. Ability to automate lighting based on lux level Ability to enable / disable through programming FAQ
    Why is this product so exciting?
    Traditionally you would utilise a PIR based motion sensor. This is not effective when monitoring spaces with stationary individuals, such as those seated for extended periods. With the athom Human Presence Sensor you combine multiple sensors for occupancy. The PIR sensor will trigger fast and the mmWave sensor will determine presence even when stationary. Combined this provides an speedy, yet accurate method of determining if a room is occupied. Add to this a lux level sensor and we have everything we need for automating lighting and shades in a single device.
    What hardware will this work on?
    This driver is designed for the Athom Human Presence Sensor (model PS01) with ESPHome firmware.
    It is a USB-C powered Wi-Fi device which can be purchased from US, Germany, Sydney or China with US, UK, EU or A power adapters. Please make sure you order the model with the ESP Home firmware.
    Are there any installation precautions?
    athom recommends the following.
    Choose a suitable installation location away from air conditioners, curtains, fans, plants, etc. to avoid interference. Avoid direct beam irradiation on the ground, walls or doors to minimize reflections and indirect detections. Configure appropriate detection distance, sensitivity and delay time to reduce interference from objects. Keep the sensor surface clean and free from dust and obstacles. Ensure the sensor has enough space around it for proper air circulation. Also note that mmWave radar will travel through walls. As such you will need to be aware of placement and also sensitivity settings.
    What are the lux events and LUX_LEVEL variable used for?
    You can set the minimum and maximum lux events in programming If the current lux level goes below the value set in 'Lux Minimum' it will fire the 'Lux below minimum specified value' If the current lux level goes above the value set in 'Lux Maximum' it will fire the 'Lux above maximum specified value' The LUX_LEVEL variable is exposed so you can program against the current lux level detected in that location. This is useful for programming shading, lighting and other automation tasks that require light level feedback. How does automated lighting work?
    The driver has built in automated lighting functionality. This can be set up in the driver's programming without any custom programming. You can choose which sensors to utilise in the logic. If you choose more than one then the automated lighting will trigger if any one of the sensors is triggered. We recommend leaving it on the default of 'Occupancy and PIR' If you wish to take lux levels (eg light from windows) into account then set the 'Automated Lights Rules'. You can choose between the Lux Minimum and Lux Maximum. For both it will trigger if the levels are below the values You can choose which lights to trigger using the 'Lights Triggered' selection. Fade Time and Brightness will set the fade time for on and off and the brightness for on. Auto Off After (Seconds) is used to set the period the driver turns the lights off after all sensors selected in the 'Automated Lighting Sensors' are not detecting simultaneously. If any one of the sensors triggers during this period it will cancel. Do you offer any other cool drivers?
    Control4 is a major part of our business. We develop new drivers all the time. You can see all of our drivers on our website (https://chowmain.software). Sign up to our newsletter to get notified when new drivers are released.
    I want to try this driver out before buying it?
    All Chowmain drivers for Control4 come with a 90 day trial.
    Where can i find out more?
    You can find out more about the driver from the following link.
    Driver Product Page
     

  12. Like
    alanchow reacted to WhyPhy in Anyone tried ratgdo for Garage Door?   
    Yes, obstruction sensor (and motion sensor) integration is a great feature. I especially like how they enable automation of the main ceiling lights. 
  13. Like
    alanchow reacted to WhyPhy in Anyone tried ratgdo for Garage Door?   
    This latest update with the closing delay is working perfectly. It addressed my safety/car damage concerns. Thank you Alan!
  14. Like
    alanchow got a reaction from WhyPhy in Anyone tried ratgdo for Garage Door?   
    Ok. Beta test went well.  Update has now been released.
    There is now an option to enable a pre movement event in the driver.  You just need to enable it, set the time you want and if you have speakers in the area connected to Control4 select the announcement you want.  A event is also fired if you do not have speakers and want to trigger the audible alarm in some other fashion.

  15. Like
    alanchow reacted to Matt Lowe in Garage Door Opener and Control4 MyQ Integration   
    We just installed two Ratgdo controllers yesterday. It was fairly painless but you need to have a computer with good USB drivers. a cheap Windows 11 laptop yesterday could not properly connect to them.  My more expensive feature-rich model could for whatever reason without having to do anything extra. Driver by Chowmain is fantastic too allow you to setup a lot of features with out any programming needed to be done at all.
     
  16. Like
    alanchow reacted to cnicholson in Garage Door Opener and Control4 MyQ Integration   
    We all need to Rage Against The Garage Door Opener (company):  RATGDO.  They are awesome.  As @Matt Lowe said, flashing the firmware can be a bit tricky based on what computer / OS you have, but not too bad and a 60 second process once you find machine with right serial driver (my Mac worked).  I installed eight of them and so far, so good.  Chowmain driver even exposes your garage door’s motion sensor, light and IR beam sensors in C4 as a neat bonus.  Highly highly recommend.  They are about $45/each (you need one per door opener), plus the driver.   Install on opener is pretty fast: insert three wires into your motor unit’s wiring spring-clamps.  Works over local WiFi— no cloud component at all.  Do it!
  17. Like
    alanchow got a reaction from Greck1982 in Anyone tried ratgdo for Garage Door?   
    Ok. Beta test went well.  Update has now been released.
    There is now an option to enable a pre movement event in the driver.  You just need to enable it, set the time you want and if you have speakers in the area connected to Control4 select the announcement you want.  A event is also fired if you do not have speakers and want to trigger the audible alarm in some other fashion.

  18. Upvote
    alanchow reacted to Dueport in Chowmain - Airthings Air Quality Monitoring and Automation Driver   
    Radon is indeed big in the states especially here in New England - being able to get regular readings and see/program those in C4 is a great thing!
  19. Like
    alanchow got a reaction from Greck1982 in Anyone tried ratgdo for Garage Door?   
    There are evens for opening and closing in the ratgdo driver.

  20. Upvote
    alanchow reacted to Dueport in Chowmain - Airthings Air Quality Monitoring and Automation Driver   
    What a great driver! I have been eyeing these devices for a while but didn’t realize they had a WiFi one - will be picking up a couple and a couple instances of this driver for two projects. Thank you @alanchow and team you guys are constantly enabling great new integrations!
  21. Like
    alanchow got a reaction from Dueport in Chowmain - Airthings Air Quality Monitoring and Automation Driver   
    Overview
    Chowmain releases Airthings driver for Control4. Established in 2008, Airthings is a global tech company led by a team of experienced scientists, engineers, developers and visionaries, with a common goal: to educate on the prevalence of radon, as well as other indoor air contaminants, and develop accessible technology solutions to help people stay healthy.
    The Airthings driver for Control4 provides integration to Airthings View Plus, Wave Mini and Wave Radon products to allow monitoring and automation of air quality in a home.
    Monitored measurements include
    Radon PM 2.5 CO2 Humidity Temperature TVOC Pressure Mold Note measurements are model specific so please verify the model selected monitors the measurements you are interested in. These measurements can be viewed on Control4's touchscreens and mobile applications via a custom web view. A link on the web view will take you through to the Airthings dashboard for historical and other data.
    On top of this integrators can add additional automation via built-in push and email notifications along with program automation macros when measurements reach specified levels. This ensures that a home owner is informed when unhealthy air is detected and the home is purified/ventilated via Control4.
    Driver Features
    View Plus Radon PM 2.5 CO2 Humidity Temperature TVOC Pressure Wave Mini Humidity Temperature TVOC Mold Wave Radon Temperature Humidity Radon Graphical UI for viewing live device data on Control4 touchscreens and mobile applications with description of health risks Temperature and Humidity bindings available for the Control4 Temperature Display (OS 2.10+) driver Ability to login to the Airthings Dashboard to view history from the Control4 app / Touchscreens via the driver's Webview Variables for all available data from each device Events for various levels allow automation of air purification and ventilation. Automatic Push and Email Notifications for all available measurements (requires 4sight) warns customers of potentially hazardous health risks. FAQ
    Why is this product so exciting?
    This product allows a home owner to monitor and automate air quality in their home including radon, PM2.5, CO2, Humidity, Temperature, TVOC, Mold and Pressure.
    Measurements are exposed to Control4 and allow Control4 to automate purification and ventilation of the home.
    What hardware will this work on?
    The following devices are currently supported:
    View Plus Wave Mini Wave Radon Why do I need to login to the Airthings Dashboard every time I open the webview?
    The Airthings Dashboard requires a login to access the data. This is a security feature of the Airthings Dashboard. Control4's UI doesn't keep a history of browsing activity for webview drivers. As a result any authentication data is lost when the webview is closed.
    What is Radon?
    Radon is an invisible gas formed in the Earth’s crust. It surrounds every one of us as part of the air we breathe.
    High levels over long periods of time are the issue. By monitoring radon long term, you can be alerted when levels are high and make small changes to improve the air you breathe.
    What are VOCs?
    Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are a combination of gases and odors emitted from many different toxins and chemicals found in everyday products such as, candles, fragrances, cooking fumes, new furniture, cleaning products, paints and varnishes.
    What is PM2.5?
    PM2.5 refers to atmospheric particulate matter (PM) that have a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometers, which is about 3% the diameter of a human hair. Commonly found in smoke and haze, these particles can be inhaled and cause serious health issues.
    What is CO2?
    Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a colorless, odorless gas that is a by-product of combustion. It is a natural component of air, but when levels are too high, it can cause health problems.
    What is Mold?
    Mold is a microscopic fungus that helps nature decompose dead organic material. Both mold and mildew are different types of fungus, but mold is usually shades of black, blue, red, and green, whereas mildew is white.
    What is Pressure?
    Atmospheric pressure is commonly measured with a barometer and is an indicator of weather. In a barometer, a column of mercury in a glass tube rises or falls as the weight of the atmosphere changes. Meteorologists describe the atmospheric pressure by how high the mercury rises. When a low-pressure system moves into an area, it usually leads to cloudiness, wind, and precipitation. High-pressure systems usually lead to fair, calm weather.
    Do you offer any other cool drivers?
    Control4 is a major part of our business. We develop new drivers all the time. You can see all of our drivers on our website (http://www.chowmainsoft.com). Sign up to our newsletter to get notified when new drivers out.
    I want to try this driver out before buying it?
    All Chowmain drivers for Control4 come with a 90 day trial.
    Where can i find out more?
    You can find out more about the driver from the following link.
    Driver Product Page
     

  22. Like
    alanchow got a reaction from cnicholson in Anyone tried ratgdo for Garage Door?   
    This actually isn't that hard to implement.  In fact i've just done it.
    I'll run it in beta for a few days and if it works well will release.  Delays any movement by x seconds.  Flashes the built in garage door light and automates firing of an announcement before any movement (pulls in the annoucements and allows you to select the announcement).  Also has an event if someone wants to do something custom like hook up a buzzer or something via a relay.


  23. Like
    alanchow got a reaction from WhyPhy in Anyone tried ratgdo for Garage Door?   
    Actually there is a way i can do it if it is fully closed since we get state / position.  A toggle command when it is fully closed will always perform an open.
    This means that opening will not be effected.  Only when it is partially or fully open will the delay happen.
     
  24. Like
    alanchow got a reaction from neil12011 in Anyone tried ratgdo for Garage Door?   
    There are evens for opening and closing in the ratgdo driver.

  25. Like
    alanchow got a reaction from WhyPhy in Anyone tried ratgdo for Garage Door?   
    This actually isn't that hard to implement.  In fact i've just done it.
    I'll run it in beta for a few days and if it works well will release.  Delays any movement by x seconds.  Flashes the built in garage door light and automates firing of an announcement before any movement (pulls in the annoucements and allows you to select the announcement).  Also has an event if someone wants to do something custom like hook up a buzzer or something via a relay.


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