Cheap idea to computer controll a "Dumb Charger" (Was Re: Ideas for the new EVer)

["PETER VANDERWAL" <peterv@peoplepc.com>]

> 3. Don't put it on charge and forget it.
>
> Most chargers are stupid, and err on the side of overcharging. Some will
> happily charge forever and cook your batteries to death.

I just recently purchased one of those X10 home control systems for under
$50.  This is the one with the PC interface and the wireless remote controls
(including a keychain remote).  They also have "Appliance" modules available
that can control up to 220V at 20 amps.

My idea is to have the charger plugged into an appliance module, you then
connect the charger to the EV and hit the "On" button on the wireless
remote.  When you do this the PC interface will sense the "On" command and
start a macro that will automatically switch the charger off after a preset
time (like say 14 hours).  Note the PC doesn't even need to be on for the
interface to run the macro.  Now this is the simple way and will stop the
"charge forever" bit and since it's automatic you can't forget.

Now grated a simple mechanical timer will do the same thing, however this
system has more advanced features available.  Since "obviously" everyone on
the list has a PC of some kind additional functions can be added by
software.  You could for example have a program on the PC where you plug in
the AHs used and it will calculate how long to leave the charger on for and
then turn it off.
If you had an E-meter with a serial interface (and either an isolated
charger or an isolated serial interface) you could have the PC watch for
when 110% of AH were returned and then shut off.

Plus of course with X10 you can have the Macro run additional functions like
turning on the porch and living room lights, the stereo etc. when you hit
the "On" button on the remote.

For anybody that is interested you can click on the link below and if you
sign up for the Discount Club Newsletter you'll receive a $15 gift voucher.
http://www.x10.com/friends/refer.cgi?peter_v@hotmail.com


After you get the gift voucher emailed to you, you can order the Activehome
system ($49.99) http://www.x10.com/products/x10_ck11a.htm
and the 20A 220V module is $29.99
http://www.x10.com/products/x10_hd245.htm
However the 15A 110V module is only $7.99
http://www.x10.com/home/offer.cgi?RCA2,../products/rca_modules_ba1.htm
(scroll down to 3-pin appliance module)

For additional control modules they have a really good special that includes
3 lamp modules, 3 appliance modules, 3 wallswitch modules (control ceiling
lights etc.) and three pocket remotes for $49.99
http://www.x10.com/home/offer.cgi?RCA2,../products/rca_modules_ba1.htm

Plus they have some really cool palmsize wireless color video cameras for
only $79.99
http://www.x10.com/products/x10_vk45a.htm