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Although this is still in testing I've started a web page for BlueWatch (http://www.angelfire.com/in2/ontkoi/X10AHP/BlueWatch.html).
Here you read a brief description about it and view some screen shots.
PCC will be able to read the text files it generates so in addition to the information it sends out you will be able to do more with PCC in the mix. ;)
If\When BVC is able to read text files this will expand on more possibilities! ::) :'
>!
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I've been Beta testing this software (BlueWatch) and I am using it now. It's pretty impressive!
If you carry a BlueTooth capable cell phone (even if you don't use the BlueTooth) This little piece of software can make your AHP Computer earn its keep. Now your HA PC can tell who is home (or not) based on if the owners cell phone can be seen (or not).
Tuicemen has also added a niffty logger for known and unknown devices. A great way to know when your kids actually did get home from school.. and if they brought friends with them.
Ive been working on Occupancy Sensing (http://davesdomainonline.com/os/sensing.htm) for some time... that has even lead to my SARA (http://davesdomainonline.com/sara/sara.htm) Project. This smooth working little software, and a cheap USB BlueTooth Dongle (http://www.geeks.com/details.asp?invtid=ES-388&cpc=SCH) turns (what was) months of hard work.. into a 5 minute setup.
I am pretty hyped about Tuicemen's latest software. I even have a BlueWatch Fan Site (http://davesdomainonline.com/bluewatch/bw.htm).
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-:) Just thought of another use for the logger and Kids!
Want to monitor their PC usage? ???
Add a BlueTooth card or dongle to it. ;)
I have a USB card that has 4 ports outside and one inside. If you have a card like that you could put the dongle inside.
Its not as easy for them to figure it out if it is hidden! rofl
Don't add their PC as watched and if they get up in the night to play you'll know in the morning with a quick check of the log file! rofl
Busted!! rofl
I'm sure more Ideas will flow once BlueWatch is released. (Note: Any Day Now!!!) ;)
>!
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I've been Beta testing this software (BlueWatch) and I am using it now. It's pretty impressive!
If you carry a BlueTooth capable cell phone (even if you don't use the BlueTooth) This little piece of software can make your AHP Computer earn its keep. Now your HA PC can tell who is home (or not) based on if the owners cell phone can be seen (or not).
Tuicemen has also added a niffty logger for known and unknown devices. A great way to know when your kids actually did get home from school.. and if they brought friends with them.
Ive been working on Occupancy Sensing (http://davesdomainonline.com/os/sensing.htm) for some time... that has even lead to my SARA (http://davesdomainonline.com/sara/sara.htm) Project. This smooth working little software, and a cheap USB BlueTooth Dongle (http://www.geeks.com/details.asp?invtid=ES-388&cpc=SCH) turns (what was) months of hard work.. into a 5 minute setup.
I am pretty hyped about Tuicemen's latest software. I even have a BlueWatch Fan Site (http://davesdomainonline.com/bluewatch/bw.htm).
I grew up at home in the 60s and 70s. Am I glad the PC wasn't around then.
No sneakin around at any of your homes. :-\
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Donation sent. I gotta try this out!! :)%
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I did a burn test last night running BlueWatch in logging mode for over 10 hours with no issues!
Since this scans every 10 seconds the log file could fill up quickly so users need to keep an eye on this if using the logging function.
Updated the webpage with some more screen shots showing the pop up notifications.
MANOWAR©
I'll get you out a link to a Pre-Release copy to day! ;)
>!
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I'm in, too. Paypal donation sent. This will resolve all of my "Am I home?" macro issues. I can finally get rid of my antique access contol device
and the Weigand proximity sensor. OK...maybe not...I can still use it as an emergency lockout prevention system...or something.???
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The main issue users may find is the range limitations of a BlueTooth phone. There maybe some Class 1 phones out there I'm not sure, but you can always fix the range issue with a USB extention cable.
A extention cable will get that BlueTooth dongle closer to the front door! ;)
Dave_x10_L did just that! ;)
cantbreak80 I'll get the link to you shortly, watch your mail! rofl
>!
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...... I can finally get rid of my antique access contol device and the Weigand proximity sensor. OK...maybe not...I can still use it as an emergency lockout prevention system...or something.???
I was using a car detection device and a key holder for my Occupancy Sensing (http://davesdomainonline.com/os/sensing.htm). Although I could just switch over to the BlueWatch/BlueTooth... I will likely use the buffet method and use a little of this and a little of that. But it's really nice to know I am double-sure with my sensing.
Now.... on to room sensing.
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The main issue users may find is the range limitations of a BlueTooth phone. There maybe some Class 1 phones out there I'm not sure, but you can always fix the range issue with a USB extention cable.
A extention cable will get that BlueTooth dongle closer to the front door! ;)
My smartphone will establish a WiFi connection with my home network automatically when I arrive home. Can you detect when the WiFi connection is made at the PC running AHP? The WiFi range is greater than the range of Bluetooth (with the possible exception of Class 1).
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At the moment BlueWatch only works with BlueTooth devices.
Problem with wifi is not all windows versions use the same APIs. :( There is a patch but I understand it doesn't always work :'(
But I'll dig a little more into this and see what I can come up with.
>!
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My smartphone will establish a WiFi connection with my home network automatically when I arrive home. Can you detect when the WiFi connection is made at the PC running AHP?
Hummm what would you call that smartphone network software Tuicemen... NetWatch or SmartWatch?
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At the moment BlueWatch only works with BlueTooth devices.
Problem with wifi is not all windows versions use the same APIs. :( There is a patch but I understand it doesn't always work :'(
But I'll dig a little more into this and see what I can come up with.
>!
Thanks for being open to suggestions. Looking forward to what you might come up with.
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Hummm what would you call that smartphone network software Tuicemen... NetWatch or SmartWatch?
rofl
I'll worry about that when/if I find a solution!
On another note:
I'm just putting the final touches in for the official release of BlueWatch .
I've added something special that is sure to please you Dave_x10_L as well as all BVC fans! ::)
BlueWatch now writes a Wave file each time a device is discovered that has an alert message saved (Connected.wav).
That file name never changes but the contents do!
If one sets up BVC so when you ask "Who's Home?" or what ever you like, have BVC respond with Connected.wav.
If no devices are found connected the file will state "Everyone is gone!"
If BlueWatch has been shut down not to worry the file will state "BlueWatch has been terminated!"
:'
Just hours left for anyone who wishes to get in on the pre-release price for BlueWatch . ;)
>!
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I'm just putting the final touches in for the official release of BlueWatch .
I've added something special that is sure to please you Dave_x10_L as well as all BVC fans!
...... Just hours left for anyone who wishes to get in on the pre-release price for BlueWatch .
Very very cool Tuicemen!! So if I go to your Site (http://www.angelfire.com/in2/ontkoi/X10AHP/BlueWatch.html) to take advanage of the pre-release price... how much would the donation be?
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Dave_x10_L You don't need to do this being a beta tester! ;)
The donation is fixed @ $15 US.
>!
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The donation is fixed @ $15 US.
I was thrilled to donate!!! I am hyped about this real advancement for X10 and Home Automation. Thank you for the software. AND thank-You for setting up the paypal to except U.S. Dollars. It really would be a pain to convert those Canadian liters to US Dollars when balancing a check book (he he).
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Okay Tuicemen, I'm hooked. Happy to have just donated. >!
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Thanks Guys!! :-[
Just install latest build with the installer. No issues so far! ::) :'
I'll run it over night to give it a test run.
Baring any issues popping up,it looks like tomorrow morning will be official release!
>!
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Well, my machinery is giving me fits...the xp is now only booting up to a blue screen and the vista machine is still not ready for prime time.
And, my iPhone doesn't play nice with either machine. Oh, well...I don't know what I did to screw these things up and I'm sure I won't know
what I did when I fix them.
I look forward to solving all my equipment ills and getting that BlueWatch add on up and running. I know it'll be KEWL!
For now, my garage door macros are going to have to continue serving as my occupancy sensor...as long as I don't get them out of sequence.
Since I live alone, that shouldn't be too hard...but I worry about my housesitter throwing a wrench through the radiator. ;D
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I just installed v0.0.3.8 and encountered some problems. It seems that because Bluetooth pairing is not used, the phone has to be left in "discoverable" mode. When the phone is in "discoverable" mode, BlueWatch alternately logs the 48-bit address and the model name of the phone.
But my phone will not remain in "discoverable" mode. There is a 2 minute delay after which the mode is automatically turned off (most likely for security reasons).
I think pairing would solve this issue, but that would of course involve more coding.
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There is a 2 minute delay after which the mode is automatically turned off (most likely for security reasons).
probably to save battery power too! :(
I think pairing would solve this issue, but that would of course involve more coding.
Paring would involve more coding and require the program to ping your phone on a regular basis else it would never see you leave.
I'm not sure how Dave_x10_L has his setup but I know you can setup Paring in Windows, Control Panel\Bluetooth Devices.
Doing this may limit the program even more but is worth a try.
I initialy tried the pinging route but but Dave and I had no success with it!
I'll look more at the ping aspect of BlueTooth and possibly find a solution to add to future releases!
At least you can utilize the when seen triggers even if you have to turn the phone into discovery mode. ::)
>!
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...I'm not sure how Dave_x10_L has his setup but I know you can setup Paring in Windows, Control Panel\Bluetooth Devices.
I just turned my BT services ON. You might try pairing it to a device... like a headset. Then the phone will look for that device whereever it is.
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I just turned my BT services ON. You might try pairing it to a device... like a headset. Then the phone will look for that device whereever it is.
I had already paired the phone with a headset. I think the headset pings the phone when the headset is turned on (after the initial pairing) in order to establish a connection.
I think something similar needs to happen with BlueWatch.
Dave_x10_L, maybe your phone never leaves the "discoverable" mode.
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[snip]At least you can utilize the when seen triggers even if you have to turn the phone into discovery mode. ::)
>!
Not quite the "passive" solution I was looking for. :-\
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Alan V Do you know what profiles your BT phone uses?
That may help me to find a solution!
The library I have for BT has 3 protocols I can try.
I can build a test program to see if we can ping your phone.
If we can get the test program to work I can write code into BlueWatch for pinging.
You'll need to pare to windows for this method to have a chance of working! ::)
>!
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Have just sent off my donation too.
I have been waiting for this software addition to simplify my set up.
I am looking forward to installing it down under in a hot sunny Sydney >!
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Alan V Do you know what profiles your BT phone uses?
That may help me to find a solution!
The library I have for BT has 3 protocols I can try.
I can build a test program to see if we can ping your phone.
If we can get the test program to work I can write code into BlueWatch for pinging.
You'll need to pare to windows for this method to have a chance of working! ::)
>!
I'm not sure how to find out, but I'll look into it.
Thanks for the support.
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Hi Tuicemen,
My phone has Bluetooth 2.1, but is backwards compatible with 1.2
Can you use SDP in your code to find out what profiles are available? That however, may be a lot of extra work for you. Otherwise, I'm almost sure that this version supports "Just works" SSP for pairing.
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Profiles available are: SerialPortProfile. OBEXFileTransfer and OBEXObjectPush
Most newer phones don't use the SerialPortProfile but I think windows can test this in ControlPanel\BlueToothDevices
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Having some problems with the software seeing my iphone.
It sees it & I addd it to the watch list but then it never sees it again.
Even when I turn the BT on the phone on & off.
The log file doesnt show anything either
I have tried a different BT dongle too.
Any suggetsion?
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aussie mate
Is your phone setup as a bluetooth device in windows?
If so it will only see the first connect attempt after windows is restarted.
Since Pinging isn't part of BlueWatch yet you can't have your device configured in windows\control panel\bluethooth\devices.
I disabled the log file from seeing bluetooth devices that are in the watched list as that would cause it to fill up very quickly.
If you remove it from the watched list the logging should catch it if the BT is working.
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Is your phone setup as a bluetooth device in windows? - No - there are no devices set up in the Windows Bt config setting
When I click on the "info" it shows them as disconnected devices all the time.
Another problem - I have selected 2 devices in my watched list.
When I go into edit these existing devices - it adds them again to the watched devices list - so they appear 4 times. This keeps on happening each time until I exit the program & restart it.
Then it goes back to the 2 devices.
Also when I do select a watched device to edit - it will select /edit both - one at a time
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*** New version 0.0.4.0 just released ***
Having some problems with the software seeing my iphone.
It sees it & I addd it to the watch list but then it never sees it again.
Even when I turn the BT on the phone on & off.
The log file doesnt show anything either
I have tried a different BT dongle too.
Any suggetsion?
BlueWatch does a few writes and reads during the initial setup and never actually wrote a configuration file until it closed! :-[
Under Idea conditions that shouldn't have been an issue. B:( (Conditions aren't always ideal :( ) ::) :'
I redid the code so it now writes the configuration file as changes are made.
Test here seem to cure any duplicate devices that I was able to recreate.
Hopefully that should cure some issues users were seeing!
>!
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Tuicemen,
I had issues with my HA computer settings on my XP notebook… downloaded the full version of dotnetframework3.5 and have SP3 installed.
Still no joy until I discovered my BT dongle’s software appeared to be interfering with XP’s BT control, so I removed that software.
I installed BW 4.0 and had it discover and watch my iPhone.
When BW sees my iPhone it runs my command. But, within 10 to 30 seconds the iPhone signal is lost. This found/lost signal cycle continues
until my iPhone is out of range.
So, I had BW discover and watch my Jawbone BT hands free device…same actions.
I’m sure I haven’t tried everything to solve this…but it sure seems like it.
Ideas? Suggestions?
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Additionally,
It appears to be an iPhone issue...
I discovered that BW will not detect my iPhone unless it's
Bluetooth Settings screen is displayed...
And, the phone's "Sleep" or "Locked" mode cannot be activated.
Uh Oh,...that's a real battery eater.
WHOOPS! That's incorrect information...
I just located my old BT enabled HP iPaq pocket pc. Let BW discover it and it does the
same thing...found and lost every 20 to 30 seconds.
I've tryed it with 2 different BT dongles with no change.
So, it's my equipment/installation???
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BlueWatch is designed to work with the Windows Bluetooth stacks.
Any other bluetooth software that replaces the windows stacks stops BlueWatch from working.
I've also discovered some devices send the discovery stream differently! B:(
I'll see about adding a user adjustment for the timer poll (currently it is every 10 seconds) so the end user can adjust the polling time. (not sure how this will work yet!) ::) :'
I'm still playing with the ping option but this is proving to be limited! B:(
cantbreak80 it apears it may be you equipment but I'm working on a remeedy for that!
I've a few more BT devices coming, but snail mail is even slower this time of year! :(
I hope to have a new release for the weekend that will fix some issues!
>!
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>! to you, too!
I've almost got my system working.
I own a DeLorme Earthmate GPS. It has a BT powerpack allowing the receiver to connect wirelessly to a computer. I pulled
it out of my RV to test it's ability to communicate with BW. BW picked it up instantly.
I adjusted the watched settings...(found turns on F2, lost turns off F2) F2 is an appliance module that triggers my Home/Away macros.
It all started working...except BW will not turn F2 off when the GPS is out of range. Hummm...so close!
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cantbreak80 I see why your f2 off isn't working.
There is/was a bug/typo in the code B:( :-[
I just fixed that, should have a release ready this evening! ::)
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........ F2 is an appliance module that triggers my Home/Away macros.
[Since Tuicemen fixed the error]... and after those macros are tested... it would be nice to share/describe them with the forum. Occupancy Sensing has been around for sometime... but until now it has never been easy. So so few people have much experience with it. I 've started posting some of my Occupancy Sensing (http://davesdomainonline.com/os/sensing.htm) ideas and experiences.
BlueWatch (http://davesdomainonline.com/bluewatch/bw.htm) really is a game-changing simple solution for advanced home automation.
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OK new version is on the server! ;)
Version 0.0.4.2:
Fixed disconnect X10 signals
Fixed info screen from displaying devices multiple times in the connect screen
Fixed so when a watched device is removed it is also removed from the info screens
Added timer Slider so interval between scans can be adjusted to suit devices discovery times. (Loads to defalt of 10 seconds)
The timer slider will most likely need some playing with to get the time that is best for all devices one wishes to watch. It can be set from 10-60 seconds and will need to be set each time the program starts if the defalt value doesn't work for you.
>!
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Sa-WEET
Thanks Tuicemen #:)
The application now functions perfectly with my Earthmate GPS base. I can now place it in my car with a power port cable to keep it
energized. A USB extension cable will locate the BT dongle inside the garage for excellent reception.
When Earthmate is "found" BW turns on my F2 appliance module...that sets Flag 2 "Home Macro".
When Earthmate is "lost" BW turns off the module...clearing Flag 2 "Away Macro"
Flag 2 conditions cause several of my macros to function differently.
I can now remove the garage door trigger which is more troublesome than originally intended...(I can't take the trash out
without AHP thinking that I'm leaving home)
I look forward to getting BW to work with my iPhone...but I'm thinking it's "features" will continue to cause problems.
This one's for you >!
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Glad to hear cantbreak80!
My new Motorola SoundPilot was causing me some grief here too :'( but the time slider adjustment has cure that!
Now back to working on the ping issue! ::) :'
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Tuicemen,
Just thought you'd like to know...BW has been running for 2 days now. An occasional loss of signal occurs
even when the dongle and BT device are 2 feet apart. It's no big deal because the signal loss is short-lived and doesn't
interfere with any of my macros (yet).
I plan on extending my BT dongle with a USB extension cable...the computer room is directly above the garage. I can pop
a hole into the wall, drop the extension cable thru the ceiling of the garage and have the BT dongle act as my parking
stop (replacing the tennis ball on a sting thingy)...
...Cool... -:) a parking guide with a flashing blue light!
I purchased a USB extension via CAT5 cable device which allows for 165' of extension. I tested it with a short
CAT5 that I'd made and just laid the dongle on the computer room floor. BW picked up the BT signal from my Earthmate
GPS that's now living in the console of my car. I may not have to drill any holes...except I kinda like that flashing
blue light on the parking stop thing. ::)
Thanks again for a great bit...I'm kinda hoping you'll figure out a way to sense my iPhone's presence...maybe via
wifi IP address?
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cantbreak80
I kinda like that flashing blue light on the parking stop thing. ::)
Hey I like that idea too! ;)
I'm seeing an occasional loss of signal too with my Black Berry. I thought that was just the interval at which it was sending a discovery request . :(
I've been playing with the timer interval but seems none of the devices send the discovery signal the same! B:( This makes it difficult for multiple devices being watched!
Just glad the short signal lost isn't causing an issue for you! ;)
The wifi IP address idea may work for the iPhone! ;)
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cantbreak80
And any one else that has the occasional signal lost!
I found what was causing it (on my end at least)! ::) :'
Dave_x10_L had reported to me that his bluetooth was causing his camera reception to take a hit. I thought it was because he had added the dongle to a USB extention as cantbreak80 did.
Well it seems to work both ways. My Bluetooth takes a hit when my cams switch. :(
I had never had issues with Bluetooth and my wireless cameras before but over the holidays I move my PC 4 feet (4 feet closer to my wireless camera receiver).
Looks like I need to move my receiver or run some wire! rofl
I hope this info helps.
>!
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This looks similar to the BlueBoss software shown on Coding4Fun (http://blogs.msdn.com/coding4fun/archive/2008/06/26/8658548.aspx (http://blogs.msdn.com/coding4fun/archive/2008/06/26/8658548.aspx). There was a post at the end of the article:
John said on February 12, 2009 8:40 AM:
The device discovery of C4F devkit bluetooth has a virtual memory (VM) leak. Just watch what happens to the VM each time you search for devices.
Does BlueWatch use the C4F devkit? If so, is it affected by this VM leak?
This does look like a useful ADD-ON. I have been looking for a way to identify when mine or my wife's cars are home or not also. I had looked at a serial connected RFID device on Ebay, but in some other searches, I was seeing bluetooth RFID stuff also. Can anyone point me to some good bluetooth RFID equipment that would work for this purpose? Could the bluetooth RFID equipment work with BlueWatch?
Dan
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dbemowsk
yes! BlueWatch uses the C4F devkit.
It is also built with the C# 2010 express edition.
I believe BlueBoss2 was built with 2008, the VM issue was posted about almost a year ago.
There have been patches to the C4F dlls since. If they addressed that issue I don't know but I don't see a VM loss here on my end.
>!
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Good to know. What is the donation cost of BlueWatch?
Dan B.
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Tuicemen,
I like the idea of the WiFI being detected. this would work for not just the iphone but many other types ie Blackberry, HTC, even nokia, etc.
As noted - I am one of the iphone users who is experiencing non discoverable handset.
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There is a known issue with iphones and the CF4 dlls that BlueWatch uses. I believe CF4 is looking into it now!
I've downloaded the Win7 SDK which has better handling of WiFi. Not that I'll figure it out any time soon, ::) :' I need to get a WiFi Dongle first!
There are a few WiFi detectors out there right now, how well they work, or if they work with iphones I don't know!
>!
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"New BlueWatch Version Now on server: 0.0.47"
I finally got some Options coded! ::) :'
Testing them I guess was the big thing. B:(
Also should have a trial version out soon ;)
New features:
Added Setting screen for program options
Added user specified log size option
Message box pops up once you have reached that amount, default is 10 lines.
Added option to minimize BlueWatch on start up
Added option for keeping program on top of others or not
Added option to save scan time interval
Added option to not report a device was lost until second attempted scan
when used with the interval timer it should cure issues with devices that sent an intermittent discovery signal
Devices that only send the discovery signal when first started will still trigger a lost detection once their discovery signal stops.
Added options to Icon in system tray a Right click now brings up About, Status Screen,Program Settings, Restart Program,and Maximize in addition to the already Exit option
I tested my Blackberry out with its auto shutdown and restart timers, worked every time! :D
-:) Hey, I found a new x10 timer! rofl
>!
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How can I get a copy? I would love to try this out.
Dan B.
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I should have a trial version ready before the end of the week! Or you can donate with PayPal @ BlueWatch (http://www.angelfire.com/in2/ontkoi/X10AHP/BlueWatch.html)
>!
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T...
Another update..using v0.0.4.2
I made a 30' Cat5 cable for my USB extension and dropped the dongle into the garage. The GPS power pack and BW have been playing nice
ever since. 12 hours without a signal loss! Maybe my first CAT5 cable was the problem??? Wouldn't be the first time I did a poor CAT5 assembly.
:)%
Now, if I could just figure out how to keep my HA computer from suffering from virtual memory overload... B:(
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I made a 30' Cat5 cable for my USB extension and dropped the dongle into the garage.
Hey... is that a 30 foot DIY CAT5 USB extension? Please share with us what/how you did that.
..........I purchased a USB extension via CAT5 cable device which allows for 165' of extension. I tested it with a short
CAT5 that I'd made and just laid the dongle on the computer room floor.
OK... I read on and saw you used some sort of "USB extension via CAT5 cable device". Got a link?
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Dave...
The CAT5 USB Extender (http://www.google.com/products/catalog?sourceid=navclient&rlz=1T4TSNA_enUS351US351&q=cat5+USB+extension&um=1&ie=UTF-8&cid=3404079011108277839&ei=0iVES_SfJozkNb-ytfwI&sa=X&oi=product_catalog_result&ct=result&resnum=3&ved=0CBUQ8wIwAg#ps-sellers) can be used to extend the distance between a USB device and a host computer by up to 50m.
It consists of a local unit, which connects to the computer, and a remote unit which connects to the device. Standard, CAT5/5e/6 cable
is used to connect the two units together.
I purchased mine from my local MicroCenter for about $50. I'm sure they're available at any good store...Office Depot, Best Buy.
I have a several hundred feet of CAT5, a box-full of RJ-45 connectors and 3 or 4 crimping tools (that I can never seem to find when I neeed one)
all left over from my previous life.
I quickly assembled my "test" cable to try the USB Extender...and may have cracked the White-Orange...or shorted the Blue and White-Green
when I stripped the cover with a dull toe nail clipper.? In fact, I had to redo one connector because, in my haste, I crossed the Blue and
Orange...I naturally thought I'd purchased a dud extender. (Something else I seem to have lost; my CAT5 cable tester.) Anyway...
Today, I decided to fish the extension down to the garage so I carefully made the 30 footer...with the correct tools and attention to detail.
Ah...perfection is good. The Dongle is now in close proximity to the car and I've since experienced no dropped signal to BW.
Oh, BTW, when I plugged the extenders into my HA PC, it popped up with a WARNING: Unexpected power surge on USB Port...blah, blah, blah.
I clicked on the warning ballon and reset the USB port and everything started working. Whew! I was expecting smoke! (and I can't find my smoke reinstaller, either) ::)
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The CAT5 USB Extender (http://www.google.com/products/catalog?sourceid=navclient&rlz=1T4TSNA_enUS351US351&q=cat5+USB+extension&um=1&ie=UTF-8&cid=3404079011108277839&ei=0iVES_SfJozkNb-ytfwI&sa=X&oi=product_catalog_result&ct=result&resnum=3&ved=0CBUQ8wIwAg#ps-sellers) can be used to extend the distance between a USB device and a host computer by up to 50m.
It consists of a local unit, which connects to the computer, and a remote unit which connects to the device. Standard, CAT5/5e/6 cable
is used to connect the two units together.
Thanks. I've been considering doing something like that to get my CM15A closer to my breaker box.. yet remaining connected to my HA PC in my office.
..... may have cracked the White-Orange...or shorted the Blue and White-Green when I stripped the cover with a dull toe nail clipper.?
Today, I decided to fish the extension down to the garage so I carefully made the 30 footer...with the correct tools and attention to detail.
You mean you've found a tool BETTER than dull toe nail clippers? I am an old wire-twister myself and can run the CAT5... and I also keep wire (and tools) on hand.
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Tuicemen,
Lost signal at 02:35:08
Found signal at 02:35:28
Lost signal at 02:42:25
Found signal at 02:42:48
It’s about 20 seconds each time…no biggie.
But, striving for perfection, I downloaded v.0.0.4.7, and applied Dual Loss with a 20 second scan interval (good idea BTW).
What I’m hoping is for no lost signals so I don’t have to rewrite some Macros…
Triggering my AWAY macro causes my house to experience 20 second virtual power failures.
No problem in the middle of the night but bothersome when it occurs several times with dinner/cocktail party guests.
Humm…maybe I should write a “Party Macro” -:)…OK…never mind!
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Tuicemens...
Perfection accomplished! TYVM for the update!
Dave_x10_L...
I've posted my OS ideas on User-Designed Working Macros (http://forums.x10.com/index.php?topic=19495.0)
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Tuicemens...
Perfection accomplished! TYVM for the update!
Glad you approve! ;) :D
Still not 100% satisfied myself although it does work flawless for me too. :)
I still need to add a few more options.
I've found some other drivers that look promising for pinging! (many will be happy to hear that) not sure if they will work with an iphone though. ::) :'
I'm not sure if I can add it into BlueWatch with out creating a mess. ::) :'
I tried substituting the drivers but it looks like it may require a total rewrite B:( or at least 80%. :(
Some good news I should have the trial version of BlueWatch ready for this evening baring any set backs. ::) :'
>!
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Ah yes…iPhone and BT.
Apparently, Apple allows tethering for www access via 3G…but AT&T won’t for USA subscribers due to concerns about swamping the network.
The only BT service available for USA iPhone users is audio and earpiece pairing.
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......... Some good news I should have the trial version of BlueWatch ready for this evening baring any set backs.
I spent the day... and some of yesterday.. rewiring my camera setup. I've removed the wireless sender/receivers (VK82A) from the system... but it still needs work. Plus I have one camera I need to replace. It is a bit of effort... but well worth it... to get BlueWatch back in service here.
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The only BT service available for USA iPhone users is audio and earpiece pairing.
Many smartphones have limited services ::) :'
If I can get this other driver working it allows for lots of service options!
Dave_x10_L I thought you would have had that done long agosince you like to play with wires! rofl
At any rate here's the BlueWatch_Trial (http://x10dispatcher.com/Downloads/AlertDialer/BlueWatch_Trial_Setup.exe) for any one that wants to give it a spin! ;)
Users are limited to 1 BT device to watch and only for 1 hour then it needs restarting. ::) :'
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cantbreak80 mentioned about the cat5 USB extenders, another option is to chain some active USB extension cables together.
With standard USB cables, you have a limit of 5 M which is ~16 feet before the signal loss is too great for a reliable connection. Anything over 16 feet requires an active USB cable which has a signal booster at the end of it. This signal booster will slightly amplify the signal to prevent loss.
Here are some pros and cons to each.
cat5 USB extender:
PROS:
Range - as cantbreak80 mentioned, you can extend up to 50 M which is 164 Ft. If you have a long run to do I would go this route
Easy to set up - for those of you that do not know how to make a cat5 cable to the length you need, you can cheat and buy a pre-fabed cable. Then just plug the dongles on each end and you're ready to go.
Wire can be easier to run - cat5 wire is small and can be strung through a pretty small hole to get it where you need it.
CONS:
Price - If you don't have a long distance to run, the price for the dongles, wire, and small stuff to do it this way can be expensive.
Hardware issues - If you have issues with your dongles and need to replace them it can get costly since you will probably end up buying a new set of extenders.
Active extension cables:
PROS:
Price - You can get 16 Ft active USB extension cables for around $10 - $15 possibly cheaper on Ebay. For shorter runs this is a cheaper solution.
Easy to connect - If you are running a cable 30 ft from your computer, plug one end into the computer, plug the 2 cables together, and plug your BT module at the end an you're done.
CONS:
Chaining cables together - When using active USB cables, lengths over 16 feet require you to chain cables together. If the cables come unchained at any point, bam, loss of signal.
Limited to 80 feet - 80 feet of active cables equals 5 cables. You have potentially 5 fail points.
Hope this information helps many.
Dan B.
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Chaining cables together - When using active USB cables, lengths over 16 feet require you to chain cables together. If the cables come unchained at any point, bam, loss of signal.
Limited to 80 feet - 80 feet of active cables equals 5 cables. You have potentially 5 fail points.
Are you sure about chaining several USB cables together? I thought you'd hit a wall... somewhere around 16-20 feet. Have you tried this with a dongle?
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This is a quote from a company currently selling one on Amazon.
The overall cable length can be extended up to 80 feet by daisy chaining up to 5 of these active cables.
http://www.amazon.com/Tripp-Lite-U026-016-Certified-Extension/dp/B0002D6QJO (http://www.amazon.com/Tripp-Lite-U026-016-Certified-Extension/dp/B0002D6QJO)
Dan B.
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http://www.amazon.com/Tripp-Lite-U026-016-Certified-Extension/dp/B0002D6QJO (http://www.amazon.com/Tripp-Lite-U026-016-Certified-Extension/dp/B0002D6QJO)
I see. Thank you for sharing that. I hadn't even heard the term "active usb"... that is completely new to me.
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Since I've just started using all my extra X10 components after having them dormant for quite some time, I'm playing catch up to most of you here. Stating the obvious, this BlueWatch app opens up many possibilities. Here are 2 thoughts I'd like to share that may pan out:
1 - I saw some earlier posts asking about adding wifi. Range is an obvious benefit. Then I ran across x10ping. I ran a quick test and sure enough I was able to get it to recognize when my iPhone wifi was on and trigger a macro. Same when it was off. I've only played with it briefly but if this is reliable it sure extends the range over bluetooth. Has anyone else tried x10ping? Could it be incorporated into BlueWatch as another option?
2 - Dave_x10_L may have already started thinking about this as part of his Occupancy Sensing capability in S.A.R.A, but how about wiring a unique proximity sensor, bluetooth based, to each room of the house? Think of each room much like a Cell in a traditional cellular network. As you move to the edge of one cell and transition to the next, the "Tower" (Proximity Sensor) in the previous cell no longer communicates to you but the "Tower" (Proximity Sensor) in the new cell picks up your communication. Is there a way to do the same with bluetooth? Does this make sense to anyone?
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2 - Dave_x10_L may have already started thinking about this as part of his Occupancy Sensing capability in S.A.R.A, but how about wiring a unique proximity sensor, bluetooth based, to each room of the house? Think of each room much like a Cell in a traditional cellular network. As you move to the edge of one cell and transition to the next, the "Tower" (Proximity Sensor) in the previous cell no longer communicates to you but the "Tower" (Proximity Sensor) in the new cell picks up your communication. Is there a way to do the same with bluetooth? Does this make sense to anyone?
Triangulate! Seems to me Microsoft triangulates RFID in their "house of the future" or "concept house" or whatever they call it (as well as Bill's own home). A little rich... and complex for me. But a great idea!!
I recently picked up an alarm mat at Harbor Freight Tools.. and have been playing with using it connected to a DS10A to detect someone sitting in a chair.
I will also be testing a power-sensor connected to a wall-wart... powering (or not) a powerflash module. I think I can use that to determend if a TV is on or not.
I was thinking... if the HA PC knows if I am home or not (and it now does!)... a TV, lights, or a motion sensor should give away my location.
Thanks for reading my Pages!
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OK, I was tooling around the net today for a bluetooth amplifier or repeater and I found a device that takes bluetooth proximity sensing to new heights. Here is the unit http://the-gadgeteer.com/2007/09/03/aircable_host_xr_long_range_bluetooth_dongle/ (http://the-gadgeteer.com/2007/09/03/aircable_host_xr_long_range_bluetooth_dongle/) It claims to have a range of 1 kilometer or 0.6 miles (using the supplied SHORT antenna). I am guessing it would be less if I had it tucked away in my basement, but can you imagine if your HA system could see you coming 1/2 mile away. NOW THAT'S PROXIMITY DETECTION.
Forget active USB cables and cat5 USB extenders.
Dan B.
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.......... I found a device that takes bluetooth proximity sensing to new heights. Here is the unit http://the-gadgeteer.com/2007/09/03/aircable_host_xr_long_range_bluetooth_dongle/ (http://the-gadgeteer.com/2007/09/03/aircable_host_xr_long_range_bluetooth_dongle/)
It just keeps getting better and better doesn't it! The more options the better.
I just completed hardwiring my camera setup last night (no more interference problems). I have one wireless camera yet to replace... but it's cold [and snowy] outside. The other wireless camera I am still able to use by relocating the receiver and hard wiring back to my hub.
I reinstalled BlueWatch on my HA PC and also moved the BlueTooth Dongle (via 10 and 6 foot USB cords). I can now detect my Cell Phone... even in the garage.
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1 - I saw some earlier posts asking about adding wifi. Range is an obvious benefit. Then I ran across x10ping. I ran a quick test and sure enough I was able to get it to recognize when my iPhone wifi was on and trigger a macro. Same when it was off. I've only played with it briefly but if this is reliable it sure extends the range over bluetooth. Has anyone else tried x10ping? Could it be incorporated into BlueWatch as another option?
Yes I played with it!
I never thought of simply pinging a network IP! B:(
The more I get into programing the more difficult I tend to make things for myself! rofl
If X10Ping works why add the option to BlueWatch ???
It is doable!
What would be the difference/benefit of using BlueWatch over X10Ping? ::) :'
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Long range detection may have its place but I’m being confounded with it now.
My problem is this:
When I leave my house, my “Away” macro is triggered by my garage door closing. It looks for my occupied Flag (F2).
If F2 is ON the Away macro does not run.
And, because I have BW Dual Loss option active with 20 second scan…well, I have to get my car out on the street…then.
wait upwards of 40 seconds for BT signal loss…then, close the garage door. (Do you know just how long 40 seconds is when
you're waiting for it to pass?)
I’m still tinkering with the BT dongle positioning and wracking my brain to come up with a different trigger or macro...
Maybe I should just change the trigger to F2 OFF. Humm…
(Sometimes just writing these posts makes the solution obvious…anybody else have that experience?)
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cantbreak80: You should be able to cut your BlueWatch detect time back to the defalt if your using the dual loss detect. Which will cut your wait time in half! >!
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Thanks Tuicemen.
I've made that adjustment.
But, being seriously AR requires me to seek instant gratification.
I'll be working on trigger mods to reach that goal...along with dongle placement.
Now...where's my measuring tape? ::)
>! back at ya.
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......... I'll be working on trigger mods to reach that goal...along with dongle placement.
Now...where's my measuring tape?
Of course... I haven't done an antenna mod on a dongle yet. But I have seen directions on the Web. I think a LOT can be done with range yet.
You've done excellent work with BlueWatch Tuicemen! Been running and testing it (again) all day. It's awesome.... an excellent way to track Occupancy.
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You've done excellent work with BlueWatch Tuicemen! Been running and testing it (again) all day. It's awesome.... an excellent way to track Occupancy.
Thanks Dave_x10_L,
Hopefull it will only improve. Been playing with new BT drivers and they look promising!
I was able to stay connected with a HeadSet for most of the night last night. :)%
Also been playing with Network pinging this afternoon as I picked up a wireless LAN card. The issue with wifi will be how to limit the range not extend it! rofl
>!
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I've already rewritten my macros. Instead of the keyholder/DS10A sensor (http://www.cocoontech.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=11317) telling the HA Computer that I am home. The Occupancy Sensing (http://davesdomainonline.com/os/sensing.htm) is now completely automatic.
I do need to write a macro that will allow me to tell the computer (BVC Voice Command (http://davesdomainonline.com/bvc/bvc.htm) or remote) to "show me as home" and then a command to undo that. As mowing the grass... will put me out of range of BlueWatch yet still within my perimeter detection limits.
But with six inches of snow on the ground now... it's not a problem I need to fix.... today. But I do have an idea or two. I've worked so hard on my home automation these last few days... it reminded me of this cartoon.
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I do need to write a macro that will allow me to tell the computer (BVC Voice Command (http://davesdomainonline.com/bvc/bvc.htm) or remote) to "show me as home" and then a command to undo that. As mowing the grass... will put me out of range of BlueWatch yet still within my perimeter detection limits.
Well I could always add a option that a X10 signal would turn off detection,
another signal would start it detecting again! ;)
>!
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OK, I am having an issue with BlueWatch. Today I went to best buy and bought A USB bluetooth module. I plugged it into the machine and installed the drivers and software that came with the device. On my BlackBerry Curve 8330, I went into my bluetooth options and set Discoverable to yes. I then tested connection using the supplied software and was able to successfully pair my device with my HA computer.
So, now on to BlueWatch. The software will not show my phone in the list. At first boot of the software I try clicking the [Discover] button and for half a second it will say [scanning...] then back to [Discover]. I get nothing showing under Discovered BT Devices or Watched BT Devices.
BTW, I have a P4 3.0 GHz with 512MB of ram running WIn XP Pro with SP3 installed.
Tuicemen, am I doing something wrong?
Dan B.
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dbemowsk Yes!
A couple of things which are causing your issues
First you must use the Bluetooth stacks in Windows if you install another software such as BlueSoleil it will not work!
Second you can't configure your device in Windows Bluetooth devices or it will never see a disconnect.
Remove your Blackberry from windows Bluetooth devices.
Uninstall the software that cam with your Dongle.
Unplug your dongle reboot windows.
Once it has rebooted plug in your dongle and let windows discover it.
BlueWatch should now see your BlackBerry
Also get more mem 512 is not enough
Hope that helps! ;)
>!
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Yes I played with it!
If X10Ping works why add the option to BlueWatch ???
It is doable!
What would be the difference/benefit of using BlueWatch over X10Ping? ::) :'
Why add the option? One less app to be running. I can use my Wifi connectivity for certain tasks yet still be able to capture other bluetooth devices, (kids and friends phones). Also, since I haven't played with Bluewatch yet I wasn't sure if there was some other functionality/logic that X10Ping didn't have that might be useful.
As for the difference, again, can automate multiple ways. Since distance is a limiting factor with bluetooth (although quite a few posts already on extending), wifi can over come it.
Not sure this helps or is of much value over what is already in place, just trying to share some thoughts and see what comes of it.
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Why add the option? One less app to be running. I can use my Wifi connectivity for certain tasks yet still be able to capture other bluetooth devices, (kids and friends phones). Also, since I haven't played with Bluewatch yet I wasn't sure if there was some other functionality/logic that X10Ping didn't have that might be useful.
Well I understand the one less app running! ;)
I'm not sure I can have net detection (pinging) and BlueTooth detection running at the same time without some major issues ::) :' but I'll look at it.
Running either or wouldn't be an issue! ;)
>!
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Why add the option? One less app to be running.
You can often tell who has been using computers for some time (that's a good thing).
I once made a comment to my grown son.. that "Web Pages have so much graphic content.. people are going to need a gig of RAM to just surf". His reply was.... So?
On my Home Automation Computer I run AHP (of course), BVC (http://www.davesdomainonline.com/bvc/bvc.htm), WeatherAloud (http://www.nextup.com/WeatherAloud/index.html), and now BlueWatch. Even with video image capture... my old P3 can still keep up.
I wouldn't hesitate to add any new product that I thought would be helpful to my setup.
I have considered upgrading my PC to a more modern one (maybe one LESS than 10 years old). I would rather spend a couple bucks (if I really HAVE to) than give up a good automation opportunity.
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Well, it appears that the RocketFish bluetooth module I bought is not a windows (default) friendly module. Meaning that it seems to only work with the supplied software.
Remove your Blackberry from windows Bluetooth devices.
By this I take it you mean go into control panel and into bluetooth and remove it from there. I did that, but the applet in control panel that I removed it from was apparently the WIDCOMM bluetooth software that got installed when I ran the CD.
Uninstall the software that cam with your Dongle.
Unplug your dongle reboot windows.
Once it has rebooted plug in your dongle and let windows discover it.
I did all this. Uninstalled the WIDCOMM bluetooth software that came with it. Unplugged and rebooted, but when I plug it back in, I try to go in and install the driver for it, none of the default drivers that windows has seem to be compatible. It will only use the driver that came with the supplied CD. When I do this, it shows up in the device manager as a bluetooth device, but I still get nothing in control panel as far as a bluetooth manager for windows, and BlueWatch still fails to detect.
Do I need to get a different bluetooth module?
Dan
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Do I need to get a different bluetooth module?
Dan
Most likely yes! :-[
Some PC manufactures install their own Bluetooth flavor of stacks.
Check in add remove programs to see if there is any other Bluetooth drivers installed.
If so remove them.
I'm currently looking for Bluetooth dlls that will work with other Stacks but most only work with Windows or Windows and 1 other Flavor. ::) :'
Possibly other users can chime in with the Brand name Dongle they are using to help if you need to get a different one!
>!
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Looking in "add or remove programs", I do not see ANY installed bluetooth software. Typically drivers alone are not shown in "add or remove programs". Do the windows bluetooth stacks only get installed when using a windows default driver?
What brand/model of blutooth are you and Dave using?
Dan B.
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IT WORKS
Well, I was not about to give up on this. I did some searching on the net for my Rocketfish bluetooth adapter and found this http://www.serialio.com/support/LaserChamp/3rdPartyRemove.php (http://www.serialio.com/support/LaserChamp/3rdPartyRemove.php). This article shows how to use any bluetooth adapter with the windows stacks. I felt that my frustrations with this were things that others may encounter, so I felt this to be a MUST POST. Click on the link above and scroll down to the section "How To Hack Windows Bluetooth to support any Bluetooth adapter!". Follow the instructions listed as a guide for your version of bluetooth adapter. This article has you modify the "bth.inf" file. I ALWAYS recommend that if you are changing a windows file of any kind that you make a backup of the original file before making any changes..
I followed the instruction to the letter, which BTW happened to show it's example for the exact bluetooth adapter I had. When done with everything I started BlueWatch and voila, I had Discovered BT Devices in the list.
This should help anyone with a non-standard bluetooth adapter that widows does not recognize. Tuicemen, this msy also be something that you'd want to post on your website for people that have trouble getting BlueWatch working with their BT adapter.
Now the fun begins.
Dan Bemowski
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IT WORKS
Well, I was not about to give up on this. I did some searching on the net for my Rocketfish bluetooth adapter and found this http://www.serialio.com/support/LaserChamp/3rdPartyRemove.php (http://www.serialio.com/support/LaserChamp/3rdPartyRemove.php).
Now the fun begins.
Yes it does! BlueWatch (http://davesdomainonline.com/bluewatch/bw.htm) is (thank you again Tuicemen) Occupancy Sensing (http://davesdomainonline.com/os/sensing.htm) made easy. There are so darn few people ANYWHERE that have truly intergraded Occupancy Sensing (http://davesdomainonline.com/os/sensing.htm) into their Home Automation that I don't think we can even fully imagine the scope of what this can do yet.
That is why I started my S.A.R.A. (http://davesdomainonline.com/sara/sara) project. S.A.R.A. (http://davesdomainonline.com/sara/sara) stands for Smart Articulate Responsive Automation. Having inteligent computer controlled automation that can sense your presence, understand your Voice Commands (http://www.davesdomainonline.com/bvc/bvc.htm), and speak to you with (pre-programmed) warnings and notices... is very much like science fiction.
But available TODAY and on a tiny budget as well.
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IT WORKS
Well, I was not about to give up on this. I did some searching on the net for my Rocketfish bluetooth adapter and found this http://www.serialio.com/support/LaserChamp/3rdPartyRemove.php (http://www.serialio.com/support/LaserChamp/3rdPartyRemove.php). This article shows how to use any bluetooth adapter with the windows stacks. I felt that my frustrations with this were things that others may encounter, so I felt this to be a MUST POST. Click on the link above and scroll down to the section "How To Hack Windows Bluetooth to support any Bluetooth adapter!". Follow the instructions listed as a guide for your version of bluetooth adapter. This article has you modify the "bth.inf" file. I ALWAYS recommend that if you are changing a windows file of any kind that you make a backup of the original file before making any changes..
:)%
Glad to here you found a way!
There usually is away to do something if one is persistant enough! rofl
Thanks for sharing your findings I'm sure it will benefit someone.
I'll also add the link you supplied to the BlueWatch web site! #:)
>!
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I also had a non-Windows bluetooth driver installed. Used dbemowsk's tip and got bluewatch to see my BB. I'm running the Trial Version just to see if this is going to work for my needs. After discovering and adding my BB to the watched list, I set 2 different x10 commands to execute, when when found and one when lost. When found it fires the correct command, however when lost it does nothing.
Is this a limitation in the trial version?
Also, it only fires the found command once. I'm assuming that is by design to keep from running the same command over and over. I'm also assuming, (since the lost function doesn't appear to work), that if it sees a lost signal it resets so the next found does fire the command.
Also, just checked log, and it doesn't appear like it is logging every single scan. I'm missing many entries that I would expect to see.
Help.
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I couldn't remember what all I had changed in the trial version :-[ ::) :'
After discovering and adding my BB to the watched list, I set 2 different x10 commands to execute, when when found and one when lost. When found it fires the correct command, however when lost it does nothing.
Is this a limitation in the trial version?
If BlueWatch is seeing a disconnect it should fire the configured X10 command, this wasn't disabled in the trial.
Also, it only fires the found command once. I'm assuming that is by design to keep from running the same command over and over. I'm also assuming, (since the lost function doesn't appear to work), that if it sees a lost signal it resets so the next found does fire the command.
That's correct ;)
The info screen will show if a device has been detected as lost, as well you should get a pop-up screen for that device when it is detected as lost.
Also, just checked log, and it doesn't appear like it is logging every single scan. I'm missing many entries that I would expect to see.
Help.
The log file will only display devices not in the watched device list and logging has to be enabled.
Log file is limited only to Size in the trial.
In order for the lost detect function to work properly you can not have the watched device setup in the Windows Bluetooth devices.
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I just ordered me a couple extra USB BlueTooth dongles (thinking an antenna mod may be in my future). I am not sure everyone knows where to find these cheap easy to use devices... (or even what they look like).
http://www.geeks.com/details.asp?invtid=ES-388&cpc=SCH
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I couldn't remember what all I had changed in the trial version :-[ ::) :'
After discovering and adding my BB to the watched list, I set 2 different x10 commands to execute, when when found and one when lost. When found it fires the correct command, however when lost it does nothing.
Is this a limitation in the trial version?
If BlueWatch is seeing a disconnect it should fire the configured X10 command, this wasn't disabled in the trial.
you can not have the watched device setup in the Windows Bluetooth devices.
I've double checked my settings as well as the Windows Bluetooth setup and there is no other device capturing my BB. Since a lost signal is never being recognized, BW won't change it's status so the "Found" device triggers the command again. If I close BW and restart, it will find and trigger the found command again. Lost never gets triggered.
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yancy
If I close BW and restart, it will find and trigger the found command again. Lost never gets triggered.
This is typical if you have your Bt Device setup in windows.
Go to Control Panel\Bluetooth Devices
Under Devices select device you wish BlueWatch to monitor click remove. ;)
Dave_x10_L I have acouple of the mini ones coming
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yancy
If I close BW and restart, it will find and trigger the found command again. Lost never gets triggered.
This is typical if you have your Bt Device setup in windows.
Go to Control Panel\Bluetooth Devices
Under Devices select device you wish BlueWatch to monitor click remove. ;)
Dave_x10_L I have acouple of the mini ones coming
I don't have any BT devices listed in Bluetooth Devices under control panel. The list is empty.
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yancy Clear the devices from BlueWatch watched list
Turn off your Bluetooth Device
Restart BlueWatch
Press the Discovery button
Is BlueWatch still seeing your device? ???
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yancy Clear the devices from BlueWatch watched list
Turn off your Bluetooth Device
Restart BlueWatch
Press the Discovery button
Is BlueWatch still seeing your device? ???
Bluewatch does not see the device after I do the above.
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Ok good sign!
Turn on your device, press discover then add to the watched list.
Don't worry about adding any info in the device configuration just press save.
Press the info button Brings up the "Watched Bluetooth..." screen
After a few seconds you should see a pop up with the device name
Your device should switch from disconnected to connected
Now turn off you Bluetooth device
After a bout 10-15 seconds (double that if you have dual disconnect checked in the settings)the device should switch to disconnected and you should get another pop up.
Are you seeing a disconnect & or the pop ups? ???
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Interesting result:
Rediscovered, which worked fine.
Opened Watched BlueTooth Device Status window. BB shows in Disconnected then goes to connected. I get the default voice message saying I'm using the Trial Version of Bluewatch and the popup screen showing my device name.
I turn discovery off on the BB and after several seconds my BB entry goes to the Disconnected window. However, I don't get a voice message or the popup window. (These latter 2 never occured.)
I turn my discovery on again, but the status never returns to connected.
It appears that the disconnect process within BlueWatch may not be completing 100%, and that's why the disconnect message never runs and a reconnect never occurs.
The cycle can be repeated just by shutting down BlueWatch and restarting it.
I've also tried with other BT devices I have and get the same result.
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Man I hate Vista B:(
Sure would be easier if I had a tesPC with it on! :D
Well at least I know where to start looking! ::) :'
thanks yancy
Voice message(nag) only happens once per session.(didn't want to go over board) rofl
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A suggestion for the BlueWatch software. IF POSSIBLE, give the user the option to not have the little popup window show when a device is discovered or lost.
Dan B.
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I see the latest version of BlueWatch is 4.7. I am currently using 4.2. How do I get the latest greatest?
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The original link sent to you will work for the latest release Dave.
If you've lost the link, let me know and I'll email you a new link. ;)
>!
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A suggestion for the BlueWatch software. IF POSSIBLE, give the user the option to not have the little popup window show when a device is discovered or lost.
Dan B.
I'll see about getting that added for next release Dan, Thanks! ;)
>!
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*** Just Released Version 0.0.5.0 ***
New Trial version is also posted!
Hopefully the Vista errors are fixed now (I hope) seems it was a Sound issue. B:( ::) :'
Full version # 0.0.5.0
New Features:
Added option to disable notification window pop up
Added option for loading devices seen or not on program load
Added catch for users not using a cm15 or cm19
Added sizing (to fix Vista display issues)
Added ability to play mp3 files when device found or lost
Added time based triggers
Links are still the same!
>!
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*** Just Released Version 0.0.5.0 ***
Full version # 0.0.5.0
New Features:
Added option to disable notification window pop up
Added option for loading devices seen or not on program load
Added catch for users not using a cm15 or cm19
Added sizing (to fix Vista display issues)
Added ability to play mp3 files when device found or lost
Added time based triggers
I just installed (upgraded to) 4.7 today (I just can't catch-up). BlueWatch has really turned into a professional piece of VERY useful software. GREAT JOB Tuice Man! >!
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I just installed (upgraded to) 4.7 today (I just can't catch-up).
rofl
I would have suggested you waited to update Dave but I was having an issue with the time triggers.
Seems every thing just fell into place this afternoon! rofl
>!
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Tuice, tried to install version 5 tonight and now when I try to run it I get the "BlueWatch has encountered a problem and needs to close...." The first time I just installed it on top of the old version. I thought that I may have needed to uninstall the old version first, but I did that, re-installed 5 and still get the error.
Dan
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Sorry everyone :-[
Had for gotten to include a dll in the installer.
I've put a new installer on the server.
Looks like there is a bug with the BWSettings.XML file as well! B:(
So you'll have to delete that file before you execute BlueWatch then reconfigure your startup options. :-[
Guess I was in to big of a hurry to get to PC Companions weather issue. ::) :'
>!
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Tuicemen,
Any progress on getting Bluewatch to work with the iphone?
I have looked at xping but it doesnt have the same features as BW.
It also suffers from the same problem - the connection seems to drop out when the iphone goes into sleep/keylock mode.
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Any progress on getting Bluewatch to work with the iphone?
Since I don't have an iphone I can't test with the other drivers I'm playing with right now. :(
I'm thinking if it goes into a sleep mode and even IP Ping can't see it then me adding the network ping option won't work for you. ::) :(
Bluetooth pinging maybe the only viable option for getting an iphone to report steady. ::)
I'm still playing with the blueTooth ping.
Adding it to BlueWatch means a total rewrite of the program . :(
I want to make sure it is going to work constantly before I go that route. :'
>!
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Update
Just a small release with much needed fixes! :-[
New version 0.0.5.2
Fixed error with BlueWatch seeing pre 5.0 built BWSettings.XML
Fixed timer load/trigger error
Added drop down button for timer select boxes
>!
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I now have all PCs here rigged with their own mni BT dongle!
Amazing how they can pack a class 1 into this little package (http://www.dealextreme.com/details.dx/sku.11866)
For that price every thing should have it built in! :D
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I now have all PCs here rigged with their own mni BT dongle!......
So are the PCs networked... and are you triangulating the postion of the cell phone to determind room location.. or anything like that?
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I haven't played with anything like that. I'd probably need a class 3 BT device to do something like that ??? I haven't seen any class 3 devices on the market, -:) maybe an antenna mod to reduce distance will be in the works!
Since my place is small and all dongles are class 1 they easily see each other. Right now the PC aren't linked via BT but they are networked. I've even added one to my notebook and it is small enough that I can leave it plugged in and not worry about breaking it off. ;)
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PROGRAM SUGGESTION:
Another suggestion for the software. When the notification pop up window is disabled, Can you have it show the device name in the list with different colors based on weather the device is detected or not. Maybe you could have it show black when in range, and red when out of range.
I also have a question, When BW is running and devices are in range, should it be sending the x10 command for the device being detected every time it scans, or is it supposed to only send it when it senses it in range or goes out of range? If it sends it every time it scans, maybe you could have it only send when it recognizes a change of state. Currently mine is sending the x10 command every 10 seconds which is what I have the scan interval set for.
Thanks
Dan B.
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I'll look at the color options. It would mean not needing the info screen! ;)
BlueWatch should only be sending commands when first seen and first detected out of range.
I'll look into it, maybe its because you have the notification window disabled. :-[
>!
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It happens with the notification window enabled also.
Dan
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(NOT) counting the beta testing we did before BlueWatch was released.... I've been using BlueWatch (in finished product form) for a couple months now. I am totally impressed with it. The price for the software (http://davesdomainonline.com/bluewatch/bw.htm) is a bargain.... and the tiny little dongles are nearly free as well.
I now have true Occupancy Sensing (http://davesdomainonline.com/os/sensing.htm) for both my wife and I... and could do a house full if there was more of us.. and I needed to. BlueWatch works every bit as well as I could have hoped. I run BlueWatch on my Home Automation PC [24/7]. The one dongle location covers the entire home. I did have to move the dongle with 10 feet of USB extension cable... but that's all it took.
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dbemowsk:
Do you have it send a X10 command on lost detect as well?
If so is it sending that as well every 10 seconds ?
Do you have dual lost detect enabled? If not see if enabling fixes the issue.
I've yet to be able to recreate your x10 sends ::) :' :(
but I'm still digging ;)
>!
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Dave_x10_L
Thanks for the testimonial! ;)
It's always nice to read success stories ;)
I never get enough of that warm fuzzy feeling I get when someone States a program I created works works as well or better then their expectation! :D
>!
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I have x10 commands set for detection and loss. It appears to only happen when the device is in range, I'll do some more testing though. I am starting to wonder if it is some kind of issue with my bluetooth adapter.
Dan
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The only way I can get BlueWatch to repeat a found x10 send is if it has detected a loss first.
(the way BlueWatch was built)
Even with a faulty Bluetooth device, You should be getting a loss event prior to a repeated found event, even if it is just for a second.
Check the AHP event log to see if that is infact the case.
Enabling the dual loss detect should fix that. ;)
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88 2/16/2010 4:54:45 AM Transmit O13 (Dan is home)
89 2/16/2010 4:54:45 AM Transmit O On (Dan is home)
90 2/16/2010 4:54:46 AM Transmit O14 (Karen is home)
91 2/16/2010 4:54:46 AM Transmit O On (Karen is home)
92 2/16/2010 4:54:55 AM Transmit O13 (Dan is home)
93 2/16/2010 4:54:55 AM Transmit O On (Dan is home)
94 2/16/2010 4:54:56 AM Transmit O14 (Karen is home)
95 2/16/2010 4:54:56 AM Transmit O On (Karen is home)
This is a snipet from my AHP log showing that there is no loss detected between them. I have it set up to show Dan/Karen is home, or Dan/Karen is gone, so I would notice if there was a signal loss. And you can see from the times that it does this continually.
I will do some more research tonight and keep you posted.
Dan
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I never get enough of that warm fuzzy feeling
I have a one word solution for that... kittens.
I have x10 commands set for detection and loss. It appears to only happen when the device is in range, I'll do some more testing though. I am starting to wonder if it is some kind of issue with my bluetooth adapter.
Because I have the whole-house speaker system setup with my PC... I setup a here/not here wav file [chime].. so I could test range issues and such. Of course I never hear myself leave... unless I turn the phone off. When I've tested other occupancy status things.. I've used a nightlight in a lamp module to monitor (watch) status.
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I never get enough of that warm fuzzy feeling
I have a one word solution for that... kittens.
rofl the feeling is inside I don't want to swallow kittens! rofl
Because I have the whole-house speaker system setup with my PC... I setup a here/not here wav file [chime].. so I could test range issues and such. Of course I never hear myself leave... unless I turn the phone off. When I've tested other occupancy status things.. I've used a nightlight in a lamp module to monitor (watch) status.
I to use the sound notification but only for the found detection.
dbemowsk
Since I'm unable to reproduce your issues it may be cause from a bad install ??? ::) :'
Have you tried another house code?
Is it possible something else is causing the repeats (a repeater ??? ) ?
Are you running the latest release version 0.0.5.2?
Looks like the Color change is a no go. :(
The way BlueWatch lists the watched devices (in a listbox) means all text inside gets the same color. B:(
However I did add the colors to the Info screen. ;)
I'll look at possibly changing the notification icon on a lost signal so a quick look at the system tray will show if any device is out of range.
>!
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.... the feeling is inside I don't want to swallow kittens!
OMG... is there a [do not swallow] warning label I've missed?
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OMG... is there a [do not swallow] warning label I've missed?
You mean this one?
Warning: Do not swallow. Despite the warm fuzzy feeling experienced, swallowing baby kittens may be hazardous to your health. If you accidentally swallow a baby kitten, DO NOT induce vomiting as further damage to the esophagus may occur if the kittens claws are extended when being expelled from the body. CALL YOUR PHYSICIAN IMMEDIATELY.. Swallowing baby kittens may cause serious injury or death.
Dan
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dbemowsk
Since I'm unable to reproduce your issues it may be cause from a bad install ??? ::) :'
Have you tried another house code?
I have tried re-installing a few times before I did my complete system rebuild this past weekend. I have not tried another house code yet, but will try that tonight.
Is it possible something else is causing the repeats (a repeater ??? ) ?
The only repeater I have is my XPCR at my breaker panel, so I doubt it is that. I don't know if I mentioned this, but when I have the notification windows on, the notification windows pop up in the corner of the screen constantly. Would a repeater or noise on the line cause the notification window to continually trigger?
Are you running the latest release version 0.0.5.2?
Yes, I have the 0.0.5.2 release.
Looks like the Color change is a no go. :(
The way BlueWatch lists the watched devices (in a listbox) means all text inside gets the same color. B:(
Check out the last post in this forum thread from Dani web. It appears that this guy has changed the color of items in a listbox control. (http://www.daniweb.com/forums/thread100879.html#)
I hope some of this information helps. I will try some more things tonight and see what happens. I will keep you posted on my progress.
Thanks for all the feedback and help with this.
Dan Bemowski (AKA the big Bemowski)
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Check out the last post in this forum thread from Dani web. It appears that this guy has changed the color of items in a listbox control. (http://www.daniweb.com/forums/thread100879.html#)
That info is for VB and for initially adding BlueWatch is writen in C#.net.
The BlueWatch Watchedlist is a little more complicated since it has additional info associated with each string in the list. :(
I'll play a bit more with it to see if I can incorporate something. ;)
>!
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Sorry dbemowsk I missed this bit
I don't know if I mentioned this, but when I have the notification windows on, the notification windows pop up in the corner of the screen constantly. Would a repeater or noise on the line cause the notification window to continually trigger?
must have been late when I first read it! :-[
No you never stated the pop up window constantly appears, nor did you state you enabled dual loss detection.
No a repeater won't cause the notification window to pop up version 0.0.52 doesn't have ability to see X10 commands
I have added some code that forces BlueWatch to confirm the device is listed in the disconnected list (Device Status Screen) before sending a connect notification. Hopefully that will remedy your issue. ::) :'
I've sent you a e-mail with a test file.
>!
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Thanks to Blender I'm now able to play with X10 Receives in C#. :)%
BlueWatch should get a big improvement from this ability!
Knowing that this program is used as an enhancement to X10 Security by most of you, I'm adding over 60 possible X10 codes for each X10 address. ;)
This should allow for an even more remote possibility of a false stop scanning (if option is chosen) as a x10 trigger
Very few codes will work from a PLC x10 receive, most will require a X10 capable remote. The RF Icon would be my first choice. ;)
A Lola remote probably my next on the list but any should do.
So far I've added the same events as in the scheduling options if any of you would like to see a different x10 trigger option feel free to suggest it!
>!
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dbemowsk
I finally got a solution for your colored text suggestion working.
The text doesn't change but I added a small box beside each device that changes color on found/lost.
Also system tray Icon will display number of disconnected devices on hovering over it with the mouse.
I don't think I'll remove the info screen just yet as it supplies a little more info (for me and other users using the dual loss option). ;)
Hopefully I can get this debugged and added to the server before weeks end! ::) :'
>!
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Tuicemen,
Thanks for all the hard work to get me going and implement my suggestions. I just thought that the color change thing would be useful as a way to see the status at a quick glance. The small box should work too. I don't think that you need to get rid of the info screen.
Anyways, thanks again.
Dan
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Tuicemen,
Thanks for all the hard work to get me going and implement my suggestions. I just thought that the color change thing would be useful as a way to see the status at a quick glance. The small box should work too. I don't think that you need to get rid of the info screen.
Anyways, thanks again.
Dan
Thank you for bringing the strange BlueWatch behaviour to my attention!
New Version now on Server!
Finnaly stopped thinking of things to add to BlueWatch(for now) and had a chance to do a good test run! ::) :'
Version 0.0.6.0 has some much awaited adds:
- Fixed mp3 typo in watched device sound option set up.
- Added catch to fixed multiple X10 sends for seen devices.
- Added mp3 play option to lost device.
- Added x10 last seen signal notification.
- Added x10 triggering.
- Added device status to notification icon ( a mouse hover will display if BlueWatch sees a device lost).
- Added Download button (downloads curent version to BlueWatch root folder).
- Added new Splash screen.
- Added color notification box beside watched items (turns dark blue when device found).
- Added color to device status screen and made text bold for easier viewing.
- Added Pause notification for when BlueWatch is Paused in program and as text on the system tray icon.
Now what we need is info on how users are using it, and tips to improve its performance! ;)
That, most likely will open the door for more adds!
>!
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New Version now on Server!
..... Now what we need is info on how users are using it, and tips to improve its performance!
No tips on how to improve BlueWatch from me. I am tickled PINK with it.
I have had a Voice Warning Perimeter Detection system for some time. PR511 X10 Floodlight sensors monitor the area around my home. But, because our normal lifestyle involves using our outside decks, gardens, and yard... this detection system could only work at night. But now with BlueWatch (and a little other stuff) I have complete Occupancy Sensing (http://davesdomainonline.com/os/sensing.htm). So my smart macros know if we aren't home... and can respond to triggers based on our occupancy as a condition. More simply said: If we aren't home my computer voice warns visitors that they are video monitored (and they are). But if we are home.... the cameras and the warnings remain quite and allow us to enjoy our outside areas. That makes for BIG in WAF.
I recently wrote new macros for my upgraded Automated Chair (http://thisautomatedhouse.com/AutomatedChair.html)... and added in [as a macro condition] my being home. My being home is a ghost module turned On by BlueWatch. It then dawned on me to add a macro: That if I wasn't home and someone sat in my easychair (the same automated chair) my Kate [computer] Voice would remind them that chair was "Dave's". I thought that was cute humor the grandkids might enjoy.
It wasn't until one evening when the wife and I returned home... and I sat in my chair... only to be reminded that the chair belonged to me... that I realized I had forgot my phone in the wife's car. A nice reminder. I now know if my phone was to lose it's charge... I would be reminded then... as well.
I also have a lighting macro based on occupancy. If we aren't home... wether previously planned or not... certain lights will come on.. causing the home to look lived in. If one of us is at home... we retain our manual control.
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Oops! :-[
Sorry to those using the dual detect option.
Some how Murphy got into my machine and messed up that function. rofl
More like I deleted a character or 2 while cleaning up the code B:( :-[
In any case I was able to correct the issue and a new version is on the server (0.0.6.1)
>!
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Tuicemen donation sent, cant wait to play with it....
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Tuicemen donation sent, cant wait to play with it....
Thanks, information was e-mailed to you this morning.
Seems I made another blunder :-[
I removed the new code for showing the watched device as disconnected (Main screen) when I fixed the Dual loss issue, :-[
Never noticed that until my BlackBerry shut down for the night. ::) :'
A new version 0.0.6.2 with that code replaced is now on the server! :-[
>!
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Minor thread diversion, please forgive.
Is anyone using these Lilliputian Bluetooth dongles? I am wonder about range. I would like to detect BT phone from at least 20 feet.
http://cgi.ebay.com/3-Tiny-USB-2-0-Wireless-Bluetooth-V2-0-Dongle-Adapter_W0QQitemZ320448203656QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_DefaultDomain_0?hash=item4a9c338b88
http://cgi.ebay.com/MINI-USB-2-0-BLUETOOTH-V2-0-EDR-DONGLE-WIRELESS-ADAPTER_W0QQitemZ190372986821QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_DefaultDomain_0?hash=item2c531d3fc5
Thanks!!
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Is anyone using these Lilliputian Bluetooth dongles? I am wonder about range. I would like to detect BT phone from at least 20 feet.
Many bluetooth dongles say that their range is 10 meters. This equates to ~30 feet. I looked at the ad for this one and it says 10-20m in open space. I would think that if you put this at the end of a USB extension that you should be able to get at least to the 10 meter mark. Many of these ads for things that describe these higher ranges are usually in extreme cases with the best case scenarios for conditions. You will definitely do the best by getting this thing in the air as much as possible.
Hope that helps.
Dan B.
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Minor thread diversion, please forgive.
Is anyone using these Lilliputian Bluetooth dongles? I am wonder about range. I would like to detect BT phone from at least 20 feet.
http://cgi.ebay.com/MINI-USB-2-0-BLUETOOTH-V2-0-EDR-DONGLE-WIRELESS-ADAPTER_W0QQitemZ190372986821QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_DefaultDomain_0?hash=item2c531d3fc5
Thanks!!
I have one of these tiny dongles on each PC! Got 5 of them from extreamdeals for dirt cheep about $1.50 each they work well in my setup though once my device is 2 floors away detection is poor even with dual loss enabled.
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dbemowsk I easily get 20 feet but you could always do an antenna mod (http://www.engadget.com/2005/04/21/antenna-mod-extends-bluetooth-up-to-a-mile/) there are more detailed posts on the net.
>!
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Tuicemen, I have already done an antenna mod on mine. I don't know how easy an antenna mod would be to do on one of these little things that dave w is talking about that are about the size of your fingernail. I just figured that for one of these it may be best to just put it on a USB extension and get it up in the air to get the max range out of it with no mod.
Dan
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Ya can't imagine doing the antenna mod on mine. Dave_x10_L did the usb extention thingy with good results.
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Dave_x10_L did the usb extention thingy with good results.
My HA PC is in my basement office... I used a 10 USB extension to get the dongle up near the ceiling... and more center to the home. It helped my setup a LOT.
I found this YouTube Video modifying a dongle (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6oExS4g4VNk) that looks a lot like mine (its a two part (http://www.youtube.com/user/timrustige#p/a/u/2/_a-AJ7EGGd8) video). I got me a couple new dongles at geeks.com (http://www.geeks.com/details.asp?invtid=ES-388&cpc=SCH) to use for the mod.... but haven't done one yet.
The mod looks really simple. Of course it does require soldering and I do realize that not everyone solders. But the "tools" (a soldering iron (http://www.amazon.com/Weller-SP23LK-Marksman-Watt-Soldering/dp/B0009ZD2AG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=hi&qid=1266811782&sr=1-1)) are cheap... and the "skill" required can be learned on-line in a few minutes (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BLfXXRfRIzY) (< link is a 4 minute 47 second YouTube Video). So even though I don't actually need to do the mod.... I am looking forward to doing it... for the fun of it.
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I don't know if this is going to help or hinder but here goes. I picked this one up on eBay, thought it would be a little better for distance having the antenna... I really don't know much about these things but I do know if you have an external antenna it should receive better and transmit better (in theory). Of course it's probably a no gain antenna. Anyway I haven't gotten it yet but when I do I'll let you know. By the way my plan is to use a universal module to turn on and off my USB microphone. This way it will not be on when I'm not around hindering other people trying to watch TV, BVC seems to want to talk to every one at times. I still think it's the best thing since sliced bread though. #:)
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.... By the way my plan is to use a universal module to turn on and off my USB microphone. This way it will not be on when I'm not around hindering other people trying to watch TV, BVC seems to want to talk to every one at times. I still think it's the best thing since sliced bread though.
I run a really old HA PC... and more often than not my (Baby Monitor) microphone is also turned off (makes my old PC work less). If your USB microphone will work off a powered USB hub... you might be able to switch it on/off using one of the newer three prong CFL friendly appliance modules. If the appliance module can turn off the hub... I think it would also turn off the mic.
Any problem would be if the USB hub uses so little power that enough of it sneeks (leaks) past the appliance module. I think the newer CFL friendly modules fixes that problem. If not the old school way that problem was avoided/resolved was by plugging an adapter into the appliance module that would allow for more than one plug-in device. Then plugging in the low draw device... as well as.. a small wattage (5 or 7 watt) nightlight.
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I don't know if this is going to help or hinder but here goes. I picked this one up on eBay, thought it would be a little better for distance having the antenna... I really don't know much about these things but I do know if you have an external antenna it should receive better and transmit better (in theory). Of course it's probably a no gain antenna.
You have to watch some of these dongles that have the antenna,the antenna serves no purpose(it is fake)!
Why bother to put it on if it does nothing is beyond me! ::) :' ???
>!
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Why bother to put it on if it does nothing is beyond me!
well, if nothing else it may be a spot to run a cable or connector through once the antenna is removed.
Dan
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Why bother to put it on if it does nothing is beyond me!
well, if nothing else it may be a spot to run a cable or connector through once the antenna is removed.
Dan
rofl so true!
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The mod I was looking at implied a range increase of "up to" 1200 meters. I am not that up on the metric stuff... I think that might be like 3 miles... or at lease far enough I could keep track of the neighbors.
I still have one antenna left from my old linksys router that died. I am just not sure what I would do with the increased range.
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I doubt you'd get the range they say with a router antenna, but it would be easy to decrease your range by placing the antenna on the floor of your basement.
Antenna placement is the most important element in achieving the distance you require, as I'm sure your well aware of! ;)
>!
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actually what I thought about doing was tap in to the on and off switch with two leads and connect them to the universal module, of course I would not be able to turn it on by voice but I could turn it on from another computer in the office runs the firecracker software, this computer I use for basic lights etc. so I can do everything while I'm sitting at my Main computer. My H. A. PC is also an older unit that pretty much does nothing but run the house. I can't wait till I can afford a new TV so I can use the monitor/TV as my PC monitor and get rid of the computer monitor. One thing I used to do until it took a power hit, I was using a laptop for my HA PC. The cool thing about a laptop is you can't close it and hiding it just about anywhere, and if the power goes off it would staying running on the battery so you had no reboots. Of course this is all probably for another topic
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Hi guys so I'm playing with Bluewatch I like it, but I'm wondering how I can do a few things, for one I have it set up when I'm near to say "David is home" but it keeps saying it like every 30 sec, I would want it to say it once then maybe once I'm out of range say "David has left the house".
I have my car set up as well; once I drive in to the drive way, the lights turn on in the house, but then after i go to bed the light keep turning on, as blurtooth in car is on. how do I stop it from repeating. Do I set up a macro?, if so can some one show me there set up.
thanks... Again Tuicemen great job...
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Hi guys so I'm playing with Bluewatch I like it, but I'm wondering how I can do a few things, for one I have it set up when I'm near to say "David is home" but it keeps saying it like every 30 sec, I would want it to say it once then maybe once I'm out of range say "David has left the house".
I have my car set up as well; once I drive in to the drive way, the lights turn on in the house, but then after i go to bed the light keep turning on, as blurtooth in car is on. how do I stop it from repeating. Do I set up a macro?, if so can some one show me there set up.
thanks... Again Tuicemen great job...
Your welcome, and thank you! ;)
The every 30 sec notification is due to the fact that your BT device isn't sending a steady discover code.
To fix this enable the dual loss detection and then play with the time interval slowly increasing the interval. Mine works best at 11 but yours may vary.
Also I've noticed that distance from the dongle can cause repeat disconnects and reconnects.
If I'm close to the maximum range this occurs to me so you may need to place the dongle on a usb extention cable and get it closer to the car.
Hope this helps
>!
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astrothug Also make sure you have the latest version (0.0.6.2).
Another option you could look at for your car is to use the scheduling option.
Pause detection at night and restart detection or restart BlueWatch in the morning.
Restarting BlueWatch in the morning could act as an additional alarm clock with the detect notifications. ;)
>!
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thanks for the help, I think the biggest thing for me is the connect and disconnect notifications, I get plus for what ever reason I have to restart my comp as I loose my bluetooth. I'm using one of these. http://www.dealextreme.com/details.dx/sku.11866 I had a D-Link DBT-122 but it never worked. My toggle is on a 6 foot usb extension that is close to the front door.
I hope I can get it dialed in.
Tuicemen do you think in the future there could be an option for those who are seen but not the watch list could be seen as guest. I think that would be cool, a friend comes in to the house, and BVC would say "welcome guest" just a thought...
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Tuicemen do you think in the future there could be an option for those who are seen but not the watch list could be seen as guest. I think that would be cool, a friend comes in to the house, and BVC would say "welcome guest" just a thought...
Adding that option isn't a problem but:
There would be a continued welcome message for each discovery I think that would drive you crazy.
Of coarse if their discovery was turned off then BlueWatch wouldn't see them.
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Update:
BlueWatch 1.0.0.0 is close to test release.
Some of you may already have signed up to test this new version.
I could use a couple more of you! ;) ;) ;)
This version uses all new drivers (well not new but better) and is built in VB.net so I had to convert all the code, some of which was a pain. B:(
For now I'm more concerned with getting the current available options working before I start looking into others.
But I have added a display that shows currently seen BT devices, if it is configured in windows, what type it is(smart phone,PC....) and what services it supports(telephony,network,hands free...). 86 services in total.
This BT driver has many features that will add the possibility for many options most of which I probably won't be able to test.
I've kept the look and feel very close to the original so learning it won't be hard. In fact there are less screens. ;)
>!
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I'm wanting to try this out. Where do I go to download? How much? What do I need to do? I'm wanting to try this Bluetooth to activate the microphone for BVC. And probably other things that I've not quite figured out yet...
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All the info for BlueWatch Can be found Here (http://www.angelfire.com/in2/ontkoi/X10AHP/BlueWatch.html)
Good Idea to have it turn on the microphone for BVC ;)
>!
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.... I'm wanting to try this Bluetooth to activate the microphone for BVC. And probably other things that I've not quite figured out yet...
I have an outside Voice Warning/announcement and video recording/emailing that I have automated based on occupancy (http://davesdomainonline.com/os/samples.htm).
I like the idea of the microphone being turned on too.
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Ok it is offical!
The new BlueWatch version 1.0.0.0 is in beta testing. :)%
The first release was sent out today!
If you didn't receive the beta tester email or still wish to get in on it drop me a note.
>!
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Version 1.0.0.0 beta Update:
OK here's a teaser for all you BlueWatch users.
The beta testing is coming along nicely and some new cool adds are now in place.
BlueWatch Now has the ability to:
- Display the BlueTooth class( Smartphone, Headset, Desktop PC....)
- Display the services supported by that device(audio, video, networking....)
- It adds this info to your log file if your creating one to give you a better idea of who (what) was in range
- It displays time of day (no big deal)
- It has user customized additions for the Connect.txt file and Connect.wav files
- Has the option to report your device as unseen during scan pauses
- Adds a user configured TTS announcement for unwatched Bluetooth devices discovered.
- Displays all x10 activity (not just the last seen event)
And more are in the works!
>!
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I would like to incorporate this program to track my employees, however I am having trouble getting Bluewatch to find my phone. I am using the free trial until I can convince the accountant to pay! I really need this to work. My device is a "Motorola V323i"
Thanks,
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OK, I just started playing with the trial version and can see that this thing can be a good thing, however, the range on these bluetooth devices stinks, so basically you have to be right next to the thing to get it to connect, then as soon as you leave that close proximity, it disconnects, which kind of defeats the purpose.
Not being a programmer, is there a way to add a feature/features (or use in conjunction with some other software) that would connect your device, and then upon disconnect, do nothing, but later when it got a second (or third or fourth), whatever the user decided upon, connect signal, run a different program or send a different command? This would then become much more useful in my opinion. Or, upon disconnect run some kind of virtual connection, tricking the software into thinking it was still connected, then when it got a subsequent "real" connect signal, that would trigger a second set of commands? Let me give you an example.
In my house, everyone basically comes in through the garage, into the entryway (where my front door is also). So in my case, everyone must pass through an area of about 15 square feet. I can get bluewatch to detect in this area, but as soon as they move downstairs, or into other areas of the house, bang, a disconnect. It would be great if there were a way, as described above, for bluewatch to detect in this area, then send a x10 signal or run a program, play a file, whatever (as it already does), but to ALSO be able to send a different x10 signal, play a different file, or run a different program, upon a subsequent connection. So it works like this, I come home, pass through the zone, it detects me, something is triggered, then I leave the zone, I get disconnected, nothing is triggered. Then when I leave the house later, I pass through the same zone, I get connected, a different thing is triggered (the 2nd connection is detected). In this way, it would actual work and the measly range of the dongles would not matter. Somehow you would have to get the software to ignore certain connect/disconnect signals.
I realize this might be a stupid idea, and that there are some flaws in the above method, (I could leave out the back door), but still I think it would be more usable (just my opinion!).
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raster69273
I doubt this will work for your situation!
Class1 dongles would be needed and the phones would have to be Class1 1 to get any type of range.
Your device has to be set to full time discovery and it must be kept in that mode or BlueWatch won't see the device.
All devices you wish to track must also be set to full time discovery mode.
Can windows see your phone?
What version of windows do you have? XP SP3 is needed.
jjsalobird
I think if you were to use BlueWatch in conjunction with AHPs timers, macros and flags your scenario could be done.
Since BlueWatch will start any program with a found or loss signal as well, scripts may be another possibility.
I'll play with your Idea and see if something is do able in BlueWatch ;)
>!
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It was just a thought. The best solution would be the invention of long ranger blue tooth. The next thing that could be done, is have everyone toss their cell phone in a basket that is within the blue tooth range, but I have teenagers and that ain't happenin'!
Or, if it could keep track of the connect/disconnect pairs, then perhaps it could be configured to do different things based on the connect or disconnect in each pair. Of course you'd have to figure out how to reset the counter. As of now, it has no way of knowing which disconnect actually indicates leaving the house, but implementing the following would still have flaws since someone could "accidentally" reset the system.
My brain thought of this :-\
To reset the counter, maybe you could have, in the user interface, an option to reset at the user's "pair" of choice. For example if I chose 3 that would mean that after making the third disconnection, the program would reset the counter to 0. If you allowed for 5 pairs of connect/disconnect triggers that it could keep track of (don't even claim to know how much code that would add), the user should be able to pretty much figure out how many were needed in his/her situation to best monitor occupancy. That would give 10 user configurable sets of x-10 commands/programs to start/wav files to play, etc. based on how the thing connects and disconnects within our house.
You could them have a counter on the interface indicated where it was at in its count, ie. pair 1-1 pair 1-2, pair 2-1, pair 2-2 etc.
I did think of using bluewatch to set flags, then as long as that flag was set to ignore all other connect/disconnects, it would work to a certain extent. The problem would still be how to make sure the flag was cleared when I actually left the house (now a blue tooth device attached to the vehicle would be close, but I could still leave with a friend). And if I have to manually reset the flag when I leave, then hey, it's no longer automatic!!!
BTW, I liked the idea of a Wi-Fi watch, but blue tooth on my phone is free, wi-fi is not, however if you needed it bad enough, you'd get it.
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OK, I just started playing with the trial version and can see that this thing can be a good thing, however, the range on these bluetooth devices stinks, so basically you have to be right next to the thing to get it to connect, then as soon as you leave that close proximity, it disconnects, which kind of defeats the purpose.
It was just a thought. The best solution would be the invention of long ranger blue tooth. The next thing that could be done, is have everyone toss their cell phone in a basket that is within the blue tooth range, but I have teenagers and that ain't happenin'!
I am not sure I follow your posts.
The whole idea of BlueWatch (http://davesdomainonline.com/bluewatch/bw.htm) is Occupancy Sensing (http://davesdomainonline.com/os/sensing.htm). Are you saying your having range issues? Just getting the dongle up and away from the PC can resolve many of those issues. More central location of the dongle and/or the PC is likely the simplest solution. I used a USB extention cable to get mine higher and in a better location.
However... longer range via antenna mods are also a possibility. I found this one posted on YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6oExS4g4VNk). I haven't performed or tested my own BT dongle antenna mod.... yet. But it seems as that is something some people may need to look at.
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Tuiceman,
Yes I have XP PRO SP3
I am using a Kensington USB Dongle.
Motorola Phone Tools and Windows can find the phone without problems.
Thank You!
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raster69273
Some PCs use their own brand of bluetooth stacks (not the windows version) you need to find out if this is the case.
Toshiba is one brand that does this.
There are instructions on the net to remove none native windows BT stacks and install the windows version.
The current version is only able to use the windows BT stacks.
Also I think Motorola phone tools installs a different BT stacks and that has to be uninstalled
>!
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Definitely range issues. I understand what it is designed to do, but I really don't want usb extensions hung all over the walls. I thought I could get 3 or 4 dongles and run this on 3 or 4 different PC's to get better coverage, but that won't work. I looked at some supposed solutions, one dongle/antenna deal that was to cover half a mile, but I don't need or want to spend 100 dollars on it. Let's face it, blue tooth was never designed to be long range, and it most likely never will be. So for me, I'll probably wait for a better way to do occupancy sensing. Since we all carry our phones all over the house and blue tooth just can't handle it, the constant connects and disconnects become a nuisance. My post was just a collection of ideas to somehow circumvent the range issues and still accomplish relatively the same thing. If it works for other, great, go for it, but for me, I can't see it as the solution (not BlueWatch, but blue tooth in general).
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Definitely range issues.
OK. I understand now. I agree about the hanging dongles on the walls.... my setup remains very much hidden. I run one HA PC. I am not ready to run a network of PC's just to do Occupancy Sensing (http://davesdomainonline.com/os/sensing.htm). I don't use a fancy dongle myself ether I got mine at Geeks (http://www.geeks.com/details.asp?invtid=ES-388&cpc=SCH). Actually... I bought THREE... so I can do an antenna mod and not worry about "if things go wrong". But I've found the 35 foot range to be exceptable for me.
But this use for BlueTooth is still pretty new [for how we are using it here]. Whereas I would agree.. we may still have a few things we need to learn about BT and OS. But I do sincerely believe this technology has come of age. The nice part is much has already been done and written about in regards to Occupancy Sensing. So we don't need to reinvent the wheel. I use BT as part of my OS setup. For some it may be all that is needed for complete Occupancy Sensing (http://davesdomainonline.com/os/sensing.htm)... but for me.. I needed extra processes in addition to BT.
I have also given some consideration to using a BT docking station (http://www.smithgear.com/bluetooth-landline.html). With cell phones and the landline the wife and I have become a three phone number household. So now a ringing phone [like any of them actually RING anymore] can mean determining who's phone and where. Forwarding the homephone to my cell number can simplify some things... but also add a level of complexity too. Having cell phones "auto dock" to/with landlines could also resolve... and create... new problems as well.
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BlueWatch was and still is primarily made for Occupancy Sensing many are finding ways to use this for other things.
It could be set so it locks your PC when you go out of range or do any number of PC tasks you don't want running when your sitting in front of the PC.
So there is a use for the limited range issues of bluetooth.
Making sure both the PC BT radio is class 1 and the BT device being watched is class1 will increase the range.
Dongles are cheep I got 6 for under $1.50 a piece with free shipping so every PC now has a dongle not all have BlueWatch installed (but that will come)
With RC Version 1.0.02 BlueWatch is now capable of pinging one device and keeping it connected. Yes even a ear piece and in addition to six other devices watched the normal way.
And ear pieces can be found cheep too!
And Yes when I come back into range with my earpiece on BlueWatch sees it!
So now those with devices that don't send a constant discovery signal can get some benifit!
>!
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BlueWatch was and still is primarily made for Occupancy Sensing many are finding ways to use this for other things.
I think we've barely scratched the surface of what can and will be done with Phones, BT technology, and BlueWatch. I think a little creativity, imagination, experimentation, and testing... will pay big benefits.
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Build 1.0.0.5 is now available
Please note:
Back up your current BlueWatch then
uninstall the previous builds to remove the old dlls which BlueWatch no longer uses from the registry.
Version 1.0.05 will incorporate your older settings
The look is very simular so there shouldn't be an issue with learning.
Although learning the ins and outs of the ping option may take some playing ;)
Ping option is available for one device only as of right now. :-[ not sure if it is a limit of Windows or my dongle.
BlueWatch is now much smaller in size but has much more in the way of capabilities and options.
>!
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SO I have a couple questions, I emailed Tuicemen, but I can understand busy.
1: I tried the trial version and love it, except, when the bluetooth "goes away" i.e. I turn off my bluetooth on the phone, it won't turn off the light, even though I have it set to do so.
2: If I "donate" how do I receive the software? Is it actual software that you can download, is is mailed, is it just a code you add to the trial?
Thanks
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I finally have DSL internet at the cottage so I should be able to get on here more regularly.
1: trial version uses different BT drivers and I have started coding a trial version using the better drivers which the full version uses hopefully I'll have it ready for the fall. I know the trial version has some limitations x10 control mayhave been one.
2: I replied to your PM on this but for everyone else a Full version link and unlock info is sent via email one I receive email confirmation from PayPal
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I finally have DSL internet at the cottage so I should be able to get on here more regularly.
Thank God!
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I was just surfing and saw this thread. -:) Nice idea, however, if you have a smartphone, use wifi for better range and use a ping program to see if your phone is near. Somewhere I saw some freeware java code to ping a device to make sure your router or other computer devices were still in place, and if not, send out a command to an appliance module to restart it. Just remember, you will have to ping the device name and not just an IP address if you are using DHCP. Also, BlueTooth devices run on the same frequency as microwave ovens, some portable phones and other devices that can cause issues.
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Also, BlueTooth devices run on the same frequency as microwave ovens, some portable phones and other devices that can cause issues.
So does wifi!
A program you may be interested is called Xping. You can find info on it in the forums in a couple of threads Just do a search!
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I was kinda bummed when I read on here Bluewatch wouldnt work well with my iphone...but then I stumbled upon these earlier today...
http://www.thinkgeek.com/gadgets/watches/c16c/
http://www.thinkgeek.com/gadgets/cellphone/9e31/
Would either one of those work with BlueWatch? Would be cool to have a bluewatch watch haha
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I was kinda bummed when I read on here Bluewatch wouldnt work well with my iphone
Actually BlueWatch will work with an iPhone aussie mate explains how to go about it here (Topic: BlueWatch - iPhones & WiFi ) (http://forums.x10.com/index.php?topic=19562.0) ...but then I stumbled upon these earlier today...
http://www.thinkgeek.com/gadgets/watches/c16c/
http://www.thinkgeek.com/gadgets/cellphone/9e31/
Would either one of those work with BlueWatch? Would be cool to have a bluewatch watch haha
Since both of these need to be paired to your phone to work the way advertised Chances are they only can be paired to one device.how ever if they can be paired to two or more devices or you only wished to use them with BlueWatch then they will work with the full version using the ping option.
As of right now I'm having some issues with Win 7 64 bit throwing up errors with the program but I'm working on these.
I'm hoping it is just a error on my part when I converted the code to VB from C#.
either way lots of code to sort through. :-[
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Update:
I finaly got an update on the server that seems to fix errors for those with 64 bit Windows. :)%
I wish PC Companion was as easy to debug. but it is comming!
Link remains the same. ;)
>!
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A request for input!
Since the last update to PcCompanion (http://www.angelfire.com/in2/ontkoi/X10AHP/PcCompanion.html) there is a way for all x10 third party software to talk to each other.
X10Relayer (the server app) repeats info/request to other clients.
Since PcCompanion is the only program on board right now with BlueWatch to follow I would like to know what you the users of BlueWatch would like to see.
The ability to see wifi devices is one that will naturally come (Of coarse your network would need to be wireless)
BlueWatch will no longer need to be on your HA machine as x10 signal will be sent to the machine with the X10 interface connected.
Is that enough or would you like to see something else added?
Want it to talk to another program besides PcCompanion?
Then demand it from the programs author, I'll supply the client code free! ;)
You the users have the power! ;)
>!
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Info Update:
The Client code to talk to other programs is in BlueWatch However there is an issue with using it for wifi scanning.
Not that it is something that I can't work out it just will not work at the same time as Bluetooth monitoring.
I basicaly have to recode every thing for network monitoring in BlueWatch so it delivers the same notifications.
So it looks like the wifi (network) scan won't be in the next release. Also with no input as to what users are looking for it maybe slow to get added if at all.
I also have network client code added to AlertDialer Plus. Thats the version with voice control over the phone line.
Looks like I may release both of these at the same time or very close to each other.
Most likely not till after Christmas :-[ :(
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Tuicemen,
In reply to your request for input - I have the following suggestion:
What about being able to connect a BT headset to Bluewatch that would allow an audio input into BVC.
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aussie mate:
Dave_x10_L and myself actually tested a headset with BVC a few years back.
Range was one issue but the main one was windows would only allow one input device at a time and noway to switch quick and easy.
Another issue that is a big stumbling block is many BT headsets,speakers,Handsfree devices will only pair with one device making them useless to take with you.
Not a issue if you don't mind carrying an extra dongle or not using the one for the phone.
Pairing and having BlueWatch detecting isn't an issue and with Windows 7 now loaded it may be worth another look.
Just hope 64 bit doesn't give me any extra issues!
>!
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I understand that that max number of concurrent headsets connected is 7.
However I guess the problem would be more around how windows handles the input from the BT dongle into BVC.
I have just ordered a new BT headset dongle from plantronics which hopefully will allow a connection into the sound card on the HA PC.
This may overcome this issue...
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******A New server A new update******
BlueWatch Will now communicate over a home network and talk to PcCompanion and AlerDialerPlus threw X10Relayer all can ask things of each other. Only one program needs to be on a machine with the X10 nets and a interface.
Version 1.0.0.7:
Added some error catching
Added product info to about screen
Added client capability interfaces with X10Relayer,AlertDialerPlus and PcCompanion
Fixed Update link to point to new server
Closing the settings screen now shows main screen in default size instead of full window.
Added option to send a net info request for weather,calls,reminders and mail on Device detection
Added option for other clients to get what Bluetooth devices are detected.
Added network info box with option to request info from other clients with a button press
Now If you still know the installer Password (I told you to keep the info)!
You Can Get the new release here! (http://www.tuicemen.com/forum)
>!
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aussie mate
I've discovered a few things in the last few days!
Your suggestion may be closer to reality then you thought.
BlueWatch already can see a dongle if you use the pairing option.
If you have Windows 7 you can set it up to use both a Bluetooth dongle and speaker setup.
This may have been an issue but as soon as the headset goes out of range it will auto switch to your original mic and speaker setup.
Once you comeback into range with your headset Windows auto switches it back! Cool for getting annoucements outside.
The issue then becomes the microphone volume ajustment it sets it to 0, at least here it does.
once I find some code to adjust that control you'll be set.
Of coarse that is if you have Windows 7. If you have Vista all isn't lost as you can auto switch microphones with the WSR macros (http://tuicemen.com/forum/index.php?topic=50.0).
I haven't tested this yet but it looks promising.
If you only have XP you'll have to wait till BVC gets that option and BlueWatch can talk to BVC. :(
WRS Macros will give a big boost to all thirdparty software not just BlueWatch!
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...Can you detect when the WiFi connection is made at the PC running AHP? The WiFi range is greater than the range of Bluetooth (with the possible exception of Class 1).
I'd find a wifi approach better as well. I turn off my bluetooth when it's not connected to my ear piece.
BTW... Can your software detect the bluetooth of my phone while it's connected to my ear piece?
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...Can you detect when the WiFi connection is made at the PC running AHP? The WiFi range is greater than the range of Bluetooth (with the possible exception of Class 1).
I'd find a wifi approach better as well. I turn off my bluetooth when it's not connected to my ear piece.
BTW... Can your software detect the bluetooth of my phone while it's connected to my ear piece?
If you Phone is continually sending the discover signal. Most definitely.
If your phone will pair to more then one device at the same time. Most definitely using the Pairing option and pairing your phone to Windows.
If the answer to either is no then no it can't. :(
I'm currently looking at adding the ability for BlueWatch to discover devices on the HomeNetwork.
The issue is BlueWatch can't do both at the same time as it gets confused. ::)
And I got confused in the Code trying to debug it! rofl
It may end up I build a separate version for wifi which will work if your home network is wireless!
I'm just putting the finishing touches on a new trial version that has all the options of the full version and even uses the same drivers.
This way users can tell for sure if the pairing option will work for them!
>!
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I finally have a new trial version on the server! :)%
The link on the BlueWatch web page still points to the old installer. ::) :'
However thouse that wish to get it early can find a link @ the Tuicemen Forum (http://tuicemen.com/forum/index.php?topic=46.msg85#msg85)
>!
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Thanks for the update. I'm looking forward to playing with this version. My budget :'( is still limiting new software and toys as of yet. But It's on my list of things to do.
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hey no problem!
Speaking of toys..... I got thinking my SoundPilot doesn't have a car charger (never came with one).
I ordered one off ebay today for $5 it may be worth getting one of these S705s just for the car.
They are small enough that they could be hidden any where!
Coupled with the fact that it is a class 1 device makes detecting it in the driveway a breeze! :)%
>!
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Many users use this with their Bluetooth enabled phones.
Even more complain about the range for detection!
The answer is use a class 1 device!
How many phones are class 1? Not many!
Why not get a class 1 headset?
The prices aren't as high as they once were!
It's true none will stay in discovery mode but that isn't needed using the ping option in BlueWatch
True many don't deliver the range that a class 1 device is suppose to but it is still more then the average user would need!
They say many will only pair to one device at a time.
Hey I found one that will pair to 2 at once and will remember up to 8 paired devices and is Class1. :)%
Expensive?
Well if you think $15 is then yes! rofl
>!
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While I've been playing with code to attempt multi device connection /pinging, I've been playing with some BT head sets.
Some have good sound when matched to the PC others are plain garbage! ::) :'
I've also discovered that some will stay connected while connected to a charger and reconnect when they come back into range.
Others won't do this but will continue to send out a discovery signal with a very short pause between sends.
A simple dual loss check keeps BlueWatch from reporting the device is lost if it is still close by!
Now these discoveries are for class one headsets, BlueWatch can utilize either way! :)%
I could have one in the car and connected to the cars 12 adaptor keeping it in charge mode. :)%
The class 2 headsets I've tested turn off when connected to a charger.
Not that that is going to make a difference as my car is out of range for a class 2 BT device anyways :(
>!
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Since adding code for multi pinging of BT devices is proving to be more of a challenge than this novice can handle.
And there was little interest in it @ the Forum. I've turned my coding time to creating a Wifi only version of BlueWatch
I had this partially coded into the BT version but there were several conflicts as devices supplied the same name for a network connection as a BT connection.
As soon as I have a beta version ready I'll make it available to those willing to give it a test run!
Once I have a Wifi version tested I'll look again at combining the 2 versions!
>!
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...I've turned my coding time to creating a Wifi only version of BlueWatch...
I'd like to give a Wifi only one a try.
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Thanks steven r!
From playing with Wifi in the past it is going to take a bit to get this working with the current options of BlueWatch
Of coarse there are curtain options that don't need to be coded for Wifi like dual loss.
Pinging is still needed but it won't be a issue with multi devices.
I should have a beta build by the end of the week if current progress is any indication! ::) :'
I think with the Wifi it will be possible to get notification on your Smartphone that BlueWatch has seen you.
Maybe with a welcome home message! ;)
I'll start a Wifi version thread @ my forum so those that are interested can keep on top of my progress.
>!
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First Beta Build should be ready this evening! :)%
Since only steven r has expressed interest in this and I'd like to get as much feed back as possible I've decided to make the trial version the beta.
Anyone will be able to beta test and have the ability to add input! ;) :)%
For more info and the down load, Look here! (http://tuicemen.com/forum/index.php?topic=85.msg227#msg227)
>!
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I would also like to try a WIFI version, I have registered on your website.
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Thanks DeeJayT,
I'm just putting together a installer now! ;)
Last alfa test ran fine.
>!
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The Wifi beta version is now ready for testers! ;)
I had some initial hang issues but they seemed to be worked out now! ::) :'
My forum has been updated to the newest release so hopefully that solves registration issues! ::) :'
>!
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I have tried several times to activate registration on your forum without success. Am I doing something wrong?
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You Should be activated now!
There seems to be a issue with the forums out going mail and my server seems they are filtering on the heading or something!
>!
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The BlueWatch forum is now sending out notifications correctly(without errors) now!
I've manually activated users accounts for those waiting for notifications.
Hopefully now users will be able to get the BlueWatch(wifi) beta link and post their findings.
Without any input the WiFi version won't get released. :(
>!
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***New releases***
A new version of both the full and trial Bluetooth versions are now on the server.
You can get more info on the release Here. (http://tuicemen.com/forum/index.php?topic=7.msg256#msg256)
>!
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The new wifi trial is now ready! :)%
Although this will work for a wired network it realy has more power on a wireless network.
For more info and the download link click here. (http://tuicemen.com/forum/index.php?topic=7.msg281#msg281)
>!
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Version 1.0.0.9 is now available for download.
All flavors have been updated.
For more info see update info (http://tuicemen.com/forum/index.php?topic=7.msg312#msg312)
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There is a bug in the Bluetooth version if one is using Windows 7
Seems it can't find the x10script file ??? ::) :'
Not sure why it works in XP and not 7 B:(
Or why the wifi works but not the bluetooth ???
So if your running 7 don't update unless your not utilizing the X10 events.
I'll dig into this and get it fixed as soon as I can root it out!
>!
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Okay I had to rebuild as Murphy played havoc!
What should have been a simple re-add of a resource didn't work! B:(
In any case a new version is now on the server :)%
>!
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Many that frequent my forum know I've been working on a multiple device ping option for BlueWatch for some time.
I finally think I'm getting somewhere! ::) :'
Although this option isn't in BlueWatch just yet it may be just around the corner!
That is if I can get any input. ::) :'
Click here for more info! (http://tuicemen.com/forum/index.php?topic=61.0)
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BlueWatch(wifi) gets update!
Version 1.0.1.2
Added advanced detection for 6 problem to detect devices(phones/tablets/gameconsoles.....)
It even works with the X10AirPad :)%
Trial version has option for 1 device in advance detection
Removed selectable pingable devices
Ping in WiFi Ping screen now pings for all devices displaying
Removed trial days limitation for both trial versions.
Links remain the same. >!
>!
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One point to note about the wifi version.
This can now see any device on your network even if it isn't wifi.
The key to seeing any device that it couldn't before is setting up your routers Mac filtering so the same IP is asigned each time to that device.
You can then set BlueWatch to ping that address, if the device is connected it will be seen!
>!
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Hi T,
The key to seeing any device that it couldn't before is setting up your routers Mac filtering so the same IP is asigned each time to that device.
Isn't it really DHCP that needs to be configured to assign the same I.P. to a given MAC?
ITguy
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I guess it depends on the router and how it is worded in the router mine has both.
I can use DHCP to sign an IP to a MAC or I can filter MAC addresses to be allowed or denied access.
>!
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I've setup beta test threads for the BlueWatch versions on my forum.
I've kept this open for members to view so users can keep up to date on what is being worked on.
This may also give users ideas for extra uses for these programs.
>!
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I've delayed releasing a new Bluetooth version as this version is difficult for me to debug.
Even with threads setup for tester to help out, offers to help test has been low to say the least. :(
I'll soon get to work debugging this but without any sizable tester group, added options will be limited. :(
As with the other test threads this will be open to users to view.
You'll need to be a member of my forum with a status above nonactive to view the progress.
Unfortunately this may be the last attempt I make at improving this without more user involvement! :(
>!
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New Wifi update is available.
The trial versions remains the same
The Bluetooth version is entering the testing stage
For more info visit the forum (http://tuicemen.com/forum/index.php?board=21.0)
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New BlueWatch(BT) ver. #1.0.1.3 now on server.
See here For more info (http://tuicemen.com/forum/index.php?topic=7.msg1223#msg1223)
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New BlueWatch(bt) 1.0.1.4
Adds updated bluetooth dlls
Adds support for widcomm bluetooth stacks.
See here (http://tuicemen.com/forum/index.php?topic=7.msg1356#msg1356) for more details.
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For those with Android devices that use this and have a wireless home network.
If you wish to have more control with this you might consider beta testing T.A.C.
Although originally designed to work with PCC, BlueWatch can also interface with it.
Testers will designate which direction this Droid app takes. ;)
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***New versions now on server***
All flavors have been updated
Full versions are 1.0.1.5
trials are always one version less 1.0.1.4
Added new x10Relayer
Fixed issues with TAC (android app) requests
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I was thinking a few days ago about having a main computer that would be hooked up to the CM15A interface and then a few computers connected to it through a network. Now I know this is nothing new and has of course been done before but then I was thinking about BlueWatch. Since the Bluetooth dongles have such a short range I was wondering if BlueWatch could access them via Network. For example BlueWatch is on the main computer some where in the house. Then each room has a computer in it with a dongle that is networked to the main computer. Would it be possible then for BlueWatch to query each computer in the network to find out if using it's BlueTooth dongle it could detect the device? If so this would be really helpful for finding out which room a device is in and would make it a lot easier to find lost cell phones, ipods, etc. If this isn't possible could you (Tuicemen) implement this?
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Since developing this small app users have been doing things with it I hadn't imagined.
I believe KENRAD is doing what your looking to do.
You'll need PCC and X10Relayer setup and running. (you might get away with out PCC running)
Then each instance of BlueWatch networking option setup.
It is also now possible to have both the wifi and BT versions running at the same time and on the same PC.
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PS sending the Home command will have each BlueWatch instance report what it sees.
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Glorfindel
If this isn't exactly what your looking for add a post to the BlueWatch wish list (http://tuicemen.com/forum/index.php?board=19.0).
I usualy review these wish lists posted there when I program new code into BlueWatch.
Currently X10Relayer adds a client number to each connected program.
This currently wouldn't tell you which room something is located from but I could add something to BlueWatch.
Maybe read the computer name or add the option for the end user to specify a location.
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I was thinking a few days ago about having a main computer that would be hooked up to the CM15A interface and then a few computers connected to it through a network. Now I know this is nothing new and has of course been done before but then I was thinking about BlueWatch. Since the Bluetooth dongles have such a short range I was wondering if BlueWatch could access them via Network. For example BlueWatch is on the main computer some where in the house. Then each room has a computer in it with a dongle that is networked to the main computer. Would it be possible then for BlueWatch to query each computer in the network to find out if using it's BlueTooth dongle it could detect the device? If so this would be really helpful for finding out which room a device is in and would make it a lot easier to find lost cell phones, ipods, etc. If this isn't possible could you (Tuicemen) implement this?
Bluewatch will currently do this, you need x10 relayer to make it work with the network and PCC would make it alot more functional and easier to setup. What I have running is 5 clients and one that is the server. all of my clients have a bluetooth dongle on them. I use bluewatch and a few shields made from soda cases and a little aluminum foil where needed to limit the bluetooth range then you can create macros. I use Ihouse for this ITS FREE and AWESOME. it has allowed me to make my lights turn on and off as I move through my house based on my phone and laso I have macros that will set flags so I can control I house by voice and it will announce what room a device was left in. IF you have more questions or need help please come over to Tuicemens Forum. I am there at least once daily and will be glad to help as much as I can.
>! Ken
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Glorfindel
If this isn't exactly what your looking for add a post to the BlueWatch wish list (http://tuicemen.com/forum/index.php?board=19.0).
I usualy review these wish lists posted there when I program new code into BlueWatch.
Currently X10Relayer adds a client number to each connected program.
This currently wouldn't tell you which room something is located from but I could add something to BlueWatch.
Maybe read the computer name or add the option for the end user to specify a location.
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Hey T, adding the computer name to the bluewatches would be a great idea instead of the number. I find that with system restarts the numbers never remain the same and sometimes makes it confusing at to which instance is running where.
>! Ken
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Yeah that does sound like a good idea about having them keep a constant name. I wouldn't even care if it was a number, I can memorize a number but it is an issue if it changes everytime a client computer is restarted.
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Please add this to the wish list so I don't over look it.
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All versions have now been updated to include this.
For more info see the BlueWatch latest info thread (http://tuicemen.com/forum/index.php?topic=7.new#new)
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Many users use this as a means of Occupancy Sensing for the home but what about at work?
Last night I discovered X10relayer will allow connection from outside the Home network if all paramiters are correct.
If BlueWatch is connected to X10Relayer you should be able to check who is home from any where.
I have yet to test this out fully.
However one maybe able to set BlueWatch up at work to watch for activity there as well and see this from home.
You'd have to change the serrver IP info in BlueWatch to the IP your ISP hands out to your home network.
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I've been working on BlueWatch(wifi) interfacing with the new TAC security module.
It had been suggested to use it as a fail safe for Home Occupancy Sensing.
Once all the bugs have been worked out I'll get the same code added for the bluetooth version ;)
for those wishing more info see the BlueWatch Developement news thread (http://tuicemen.com/forum/index.php?topic=222.msg2697#msg2697) on my forum.
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OK finally the new version 1.0.1.9 is on the server.
All flavors have been updated
You can read about the new version adds on my site.
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