Subj : Re: USB controlled mains switch
To   : Adrian
From : Mike Scott
Date : Sun Jan 19 2025 08:29:51

On 18/01/2025 23:07, Adrian wrote:
> I'm looking for a USB controlled mains switch (230V AC) that I can
> connect to a PI to turn a mains power supply on and off.
>
> I've done a bit of digging around on the net, and the options seem to
> fall into two categories, either a relay device which means having to
> rewire the device (which I'd rather avoid), priced around 30Euros or one
> that sits in line (between the device and the supply).  The latter
> appears to be in excess of 100Euros, which is considerably more than I
> want to pay.
>
> Any suggestions on where to look ?  I'm not interested in a wireless
> solution, as it is likely to be used in places where signals are not
> reliable.

I've a similar thread in c.o.l.misc in particular. Although that's
headed 'smart plugs?' and looking for a wireless solution.

My own feeling is that the bigger the gap between mains and my
electronics, the better, and wireless is a good way for this.

I suspect off-the-shelf products, at least consumer-grade, will be
wireless. Might there be mileage in running network wires to local
wireless repeaters, then using wireless switches? Or use a
network-over-mains scheme?

Oh, and if you only need a PI for local control, with no networking,
don't forget the PI can be an AP and run a nearby wireless device
without a central router.

(FWIW I'm leaning towards the Shelly Plus Plug, at around £20. IIRC
there's a euro version too. It's the only one I've found that seems not
to need cloud servers.)

--
Mike Scott
Harlow, England

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