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BYO Auto-Switching Power Strip
krick:
Because half the fun is trying to make it yourself.
You can get a power strip for $5 and a relay for less than $10.
So for less $15 and a little effort, you can make a "smart strip" type device yourself.
Plus, you get the bragging rights that go along with that....
"See that? [points at power strip-relay hybrid]... I made it myself."
I'm fairly certain that most of the repeat posters here actually like working on thier cabinets more than actually playing games on them.
At least I know I do. :)
rchadd:
--- Quote from: koolmoecraig on June 23, 2004, 02:22:49 am ---Why not just buy a SMART STRIP? They are under $30
--- End quote ---
because they don't work in the UK
i was thinking of implementing similar - but was going to usin one of the disk drive power connectors off the ATX PSU to switch the relay.
crashwg:
I'm going with USB due to the fact there will probably be a laptop in the cab for a good amount of time and I doubt the smartstip would work correctly with the way laptops consume electricity. But I could be wrong...
But back on track.
Is there any harm in connecting the 5v from a usb cable to a relay? Would a relay consume enough electricity not to cause a short? Should I put an LED or a resistor in line just in case?
crashwg:
So no one else has anything to tell me?
I REALY don't want to blow my USB ports!
AlanS17:
Hook up a cheapo USB hub in-line. If anything goes, it should be the hub. Then you'll know!