[AHP ADD-ON] BlueWatch (Control via BlueTooth or WIFI Detection)

[Tuicemen]

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

[HA Dave]

I finally have DSL internet at the cottage so I should be able to get on here more regularly.

Thank God!

[Duckman]

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.

[Tuicemen]

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!

[meghanlynn]

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

[Tuicemen]

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 )

...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.

[Tuicemen]

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.

[Tuicemen]

A request for input!
Since the last update to PcCompanion 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!

[Tuicemen]

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

[aussie mate]

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.

[Tuicemen]

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!

[aussie mate]

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...

[Tuicemen]

******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!

[Tuicemen]

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.
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!

[steven r]

...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?