My garage home-lab.
My Home Automation Lab is a personal project where I have set up and configured a comprehensive range of industrial automation devices. This mini-lab serves as a platform for learning, testing, and professional development. The equipment includes various HMIs, PLCs, sensors, and networking devices. This personal lab demonstrates my ability to work with a wide array of industrial automation products and my dedication to continual learning and skills development.
One of the significant projects in my home automation lab involved developing a C# .NET application to facilitate RS232 serial communication with a CompactLogix 1769-L35E. This project required a deep understanding of serial communication protocols and advanced programming skills. The application acted as a data concentrator, using Produce/Consume over EtherNet/IP to communicate with other Logix-based PLCs and even CIP Explicit messaging to MicroLogix and SLC processors. The data gathered was then transmitted to a Windows industrial PC, where it could be updated and logged to a MySQL database.
Utilising my oscilloscope, I conducted detailed signal analysis, particularly focusing on DeviceNet and RS232 serial communications. This allowed me to diagnose, decode and interpret, and troubleshoot various signal integrity issuess. Through this process, I gained a deeper understanding of the intricacies involved in industrial signal analysis.
Exploring the potential of PanelView Plus terminals, I delved into developing .NET applications that could run on these devices. PanelView Plus terminals, with their Windows CE operating system, can function as touch-screen industrial PCs. I created and deployed several applications, showcasing the flexibility and potential of these terminals beyond their standard use. It also serves as an opportunity to continue working with legacy operating systems, developing on Windows XP as the version of Windows CE used on most PanelView Plus terminals aligns with Windows Visual Basic 2008.
In my lab, I have set up both Ethernet and DeviceNet networks, complete with DHCP, BOOTP, TFTP, DNS, and other servers. This infrastructure allows communication and device management across a variety of equipment. By recreating network configurations commonly found in industrial environments, I was able to troubleshoot and experiment with various network setups, enhancing my understanding of industrial networking.
My lab setup allowed me to tinker, experiment, and practice configuring a vast array of automation products. By recreating customer issues and developing troubleshooting techniques, I gained hands-on experience that is invaluable in a professional setting. This practical approach ensured that I am well-prepared to handle real-world industrial automation challenges.
Throughout the development of my home automation lab, I engaged in numerous smaller projects that expanded my technical skills and knowledge. From configuring various PLCs for ASCII communications over RS232 to experimenting with different HMI configurations, each project added a layer of depth to my understanding of industrial automation technologies. These examples are just a few highlights from the extensive work conducted in my lab, demonstrating my dedication to continuous learning and professional growth.
My Home Automation Lab exemplifies my passion for industrial automation and my commitment to staying at the forefront of technology. By working with a diverse range of equipment and undertaking various notable applications, I have honed my skills and gained invaluable hands-on experience. This lab serves as a testament to my technical expertise and my enthusiasm for continuous learning and experimentation in the field of automation controls.