Ubuntu With Read Only OverlayFS
Background I had a need to create a shared desktop Ubuntu machine that would be used by more than one person, but I wanted it to function more like an internet kiosk, and not be changeable by the end user. After playing with Raspbian OS for other projects, I knew about the overlayfs method of […]
Read MoreInstall Dell OpenManage on R430 For Ubuntu 20.04
I bought a used Dell R430 server from Ebay. It still had the old hostname showing in the system details on the iDrac. Without the OMSA tool installed on the server, it is hard to change the displayed name. The OMSA tool also enables a lot of other admin functionality as well. I read many […]
Read MoreGPS Governed NTP Server With PPS Sync
Abstract Because I have multiple computer systems (servers, desktop/laptops, and embedded home automation devices) I wanted to have a master time source that would work even if my internet connection became unavailable. The best way to achieve this is by using time signals from GPS satellites. Commercial GPS clocks tend to cost upwards in the […]
Read MoreWeatherflow Tempest API
I recently purchased a Weatherflow weatherstation (Tempest) and set it up in the back yard. What I like about this company is that they are very open source friendly and allow access to their API for getting access to the data from your weather station. This data is value for many purposes, including home automation, […]
Read MoreMic McCloud – A Cloud Microphone
FIRST: A STERN WARNING! The technology discussed in this article has serious potential to land you in trouble under possible state and federal wiretap statutes. Your use of this information is at your own risk and I cannot be held liable for your failure to use this information in accordance with local/federal laws. You agree […]
Read MoreDIY High Power Smart Switch
Those plug-in smart switches that are uniquitous in the market are only good to 10 amps. (most of them) I had one on my dehumidifier project to control when the dehumidifier would turn on and off (by turning it completely off, we save energy and money on the electric bill). After a couple years of […]
Read MoreGarage Door IoT Interface
ABSTRACT In our home, we have 2 garage doors with RF remotes in our cars. For most people, this is generally considered “good enough”. I wanted to come up with a way to connect our garage door openers to our home automation system. Doing so would have the added benefit of remote control from anywhere, […]
Read MoreFM / Raspberry Pi Translator
ABSTRACT I moved to an area where my AM news station (WBZ) comes in rather scratchy. Sure I could stream them over the internet on a mobile device, but what about the radios I currently have? Have they now become paperweights? Fortunately, WBZ streams online and I found a cool FM transmitter module that I […]
Read MoreSmart Solar Powered Landscape Lighting
Background My neighbor recently did a landscape lighting project of his own. It looked great and was a simple grid-tied system. I wanted to kill 2 birds with one stone and do a landscape lighting system of my own, but I wanted ours to be connected (wirelessly) to our Domoticz home automation system and I […]
Read MoreStreaming Municipal Services
ABSTRACT We moved into town in July 2020 and as new residents always looking for ways to get a pulse on happenings in the town. One great way to do that is to monitor the radio systems of the municipal services that operate within the town. To monitor, one can either go out and purchase […]
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