iSpindel Digital Hydrometer

[Uyllii]

Morning all,
Well I'm about to throw this thing in the bin. It just is not connecting to the computer thru any COM port. The computer doesn't make that normal "ping" sound when you connect a USB device, I just have a steady blue flashing LED. I can't see another way to load the flash bin file.
I have ordered a BAT43 diode to see if that helps as the resistor that I got sent with my pack is a 390ohm instead of a 470ohm. Not sure if that would make a difference.
Is there anyone out there that could shed some light into reasons I may not be able to connect to a computer? I have tried multiple USB's as well.
Cheers

Make sure you are using a charge and data USB cable. Some cables only charge devices and cannot transfer data. (If your phone/tablet/... can connect to PC with it it should be fine)

 

[scotthbutler]

Morning all,
Well I'm about to throw this thing in the bin. It just is not connecting to the computer thru any COM port. The computer doesn't make that normal "ping" sound when you connect a USB device, I just have a steady blue flashing LED. I can't see another way to load the flash bin file.
I have ordered a BAT43 diode to see if that helps as the resistor that I got sent with my pack is a 390ohm instead of a 470ohm. Not sure if that would make a difference.
Is there anyone out there that could shed some light into reasons I may not be able to connect to a computer? I have tried multiple USB's as well.
Cheers

Your not using a Mac are you? I had to change to a PC for it to be recognised through the USB.

 

[Korev]

Hi Guys,
I have built a brewpiless v2.6 which is working and now I have completed my iSpindel v5.8.5. However, I am stuck trying to configure the iSpindel with the brewpiless - which I suspect is my lack of knowledge about networks. If someone has a worked example on what they set up for the iSpindel Configuration and likewise the brewpiless it would really help

Thanks
Peter

 

[Scarabrew]

Hi Guys,
I have built a brewpiless v2.6 which is working and now I have completed my iSpindel v5.8.5. However, I am stuck trying to configure the iSpindel with the brewpiless - which I suspect is my lack of knowledge about networks. If someone has a worked example on what they set up for the iSpindel Configuration and likewise the brewpiless it would really help

Thanks
Peter

Hi Peter,

The BrewPiLess settings are very simple. All you have to do is click/tap at the "gravity sensor" menu and tick the "gravity sensor option,like this:

After that you must set your iSpindel like this:

You can change the "Update interval" to something shorter but I think 1 hour for gravity measurement is more than enough since we don't take a gravity reading every hour.

Any doubt, let us know!

 

[Korev]

Hi Peter,

The BrewPiLess settings are very simple. All you have to do is click/tap at the "gravity sensor" menu and tick the "gravity sensor option,like this:

After that you must set your iSpindel like this:

You can change the "Update interval" to something shorter but I think 1 hour for gravity measurement is more than enough since we don't take a gravity reading every hour.

Any doubt, let us know!

Thanks I had a few things set wrong. My next challenge is to find out the brewpiless IP - I do not have the login to the router. Perhaps I should set brewpiless as a static IP/Gateway? at least I would know what it was!
P

 

[Scarabrew]

Thanks I had a few things set wrong. My next challenge is to find out the brewpiless IP - I do not have the login to the router. Perhaps I should set brewpiless as a static IP/Gateway? at least I would know what it was!
P

You can discover your BrewPiLess IP by using an app at your smartphone called IP Tools (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.appworld.iptools),

Download it and tap on "Lan Scanner". It will find all devices hooked into your network. The BrewPiLess is the one with "Expressif Inc.".

Or you can reset your BPL, log into it's SSID, tap on "Configure Wi-Fi" . At the end of the page you can find the Static IP options (only available at the 2.5 and newer versions)

 

[Korev]

You can discover your BrewPiLess IP by using an app at your smartphone called IP Tools (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.appworld.iptools),

Download it and tap on "Lan Scanner". It will find all devices hooked into your network. The BrewPiLess is the one with "Expressif Inc.".

Or you can reset your BPL, log into it's SSID, tap on "Configure Wi-Fi" . At the end of the page you can find the Static IP options (only available at the 2.5 and newer versions)

Some progress today, I think - I had to use a different program for my Windows laptop which provided the IP of the brewpiless . Using your suggested settings didn't work. So I used Putty to see what the iSpindel was doing (not that I know what a good message looks like!) then reconfigured and connected to Ubidots and confirmed that the iSpindle was working with 20s updates.

Then I set a static IP address in both brewpiless and Spindel also configured an update interval of zero and it brought up the iSpindel details on the brewpiless interface - progress

But when I reconfigured the iSpindel to a 360s interval it stopped working again - I have left the putty connected to log overnight

P

 

[Scarabrew]

Well, there is no reason to fix the ispindel IP to static. And even when you change the interval to 0 s the isoindek is able to update around 20 to 30s, that's it as minimum.

 

[Korev]

Well, there is no reason to fix the ispindel IP to static. And even when you change the interval to 0 s the isoindek is able to update around 20 to 30s, that's it as minimum.

I think that there must be something wrong at the brewpiless end as the ispindel worked fine to ubidots

Perhaps I should re flash the brewpiless?

P

 

[Scarabrew]

Sometimes this is the best way to solve an unknown problem. Let's try it.

 

[Korev]

So I spent some time reloading the BPL and iSpindel but with no luck so I lodged an issue on Github

https://github.com/vitotai/BrewPiLess/issues/82

Based on the feedback I changed the iSpindel version 5.1.2 from the BPL extras and have modified BPL 2.7 with 20 instead of 12 per below
Check ExternalData.h, find processJSON()
bool processJSON(char data[],size_t length, bool authenticated, uint8_t& error) { const int BUFFER_SIZE = JSON_OBJECT_SIZE(12);

I am testing how stable this is by monitoring the iSpindel with Putty and it has been updating on BPL every 20" for 45 minutes so far - fingers crossed Update still working after 4 hours

I would be interested to know what versions of BPL and iSpindel others are using?

Peter

 

[Korev]

Died in the proverbial after 7.5 hours and successfully sending 649 times.

Recharging the iSpindel and will run again overnight

P

 

[Fro-Daddy]

I'm thinking about making a couple of these and from reading in here DIY seems to be the way to go for cost and wireless charging.
Is the parts list that was mentioned early on in this thread still the best way to go? I read a few people upgrading/changing things but it started to get a bit confusing.

One other thing I'm still unsure about is how you read the data. Can I just use my laptop and read it live over WiFi? Or do I need the BrewPi?

 

[Scarabrew]

I'm thinking about making a couple of these and from reading in here DIY seems to be the way to go for cost and wireless charging.
Is the parts list that was mentioned early on in this thread still the best way to go? I read a few people upgrading/changing things but it started to get a bit confusing.

One other thing I'm still unsure about is how you read the data. Can I just use my laptop and read it live over WiFi? Or do I need the BrewPi?

Things got easier.

Use this Aliexpress shop list but replace the 470 ohm resistor for a BAT43 Schottky Diode.
For the board, buy this one: https://pcbs.io/board/cc3e8a392dc8a9521a15ef98ed3e7abace9f9888af7625a097aafc75fa2716fc
For the PET tube, use this one: https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/5-pcs-X...354252?hash=item1ed26ca48c:g:rnQAAOSwv0tU4JMN
Use this drawer to make things easier, too: https://github.com/universam1/iSpindel/tree/master/drawer/mwx-Edition

You can also use a wireless charger, but is optional: https://www.aliexpress.com/item/A-Q...32724345585.html?spm=a2g0s.9042311.0.0.oyw8Rh

And NO, you don't have to build a BrewPi to read it's measurements. The iSpindel itself sends data to a website (usually Ubidots) so you can check it in realtime.

 

[Fro-Daddy]

Is there a link missing for the shop list?
I might start ordering parts tonight, thanks!

 

[Scarabrew]

Is there a link missing for the shop list?
I might start ordering parts tonight, thanks!

I edited the post. Now it's complete.

 

[Mister clark]

Things got easier.

Use this Aliexpress shop list but replace the 470 ohm resistor for a BAT43 Schottky Diode.
For the board, buy this one: https://pcbs.io/board/cc3e8a392dc8a9521a15ef98ed3e7abace9f9888af7625a097aafc75fa2716fc
For the PET tube, use this one: https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/5-pcs-X...354252?hash=item1ed26ca48c:g:rnQAAOSwv0tU4JMN
Use this drawer to make things easier, too: https://github.com/universam1/iSpindel/tree/master/drawer/mwx-Edition

You can also use a wireless charger, but is optional: https://www.aliexpress.com/item/A-Q...32724345585.html?spm=a2g0s.9042311.0.0.oyw8Rh

And NO, you don't have to build a BrewPi to read it's measurements. The iSpindel itself sends data to a website (usually Ubidots) so you can check it in realtime.

Thanks for posting the shopping list, that will make things easier!

I've just finished reading the thread so apologies if this is a silly question but regarding the sled, did you use the same guy others have referenced to do the 3D printing for you?

Thanks in advance.

 

[Scarabrew]

Thanks for posting the shopping list, that will make things easier!

I've just finished reading the thread so apologies if this is a silly question but regarding the sled, did you use the same guy others have referenced to do the 3D printing for you?

Thanks in advance.

No, I didn't.

Actually I don't even live in Australia.

 

[tateg]

Hi Guys,
i am looking at getting the following sled printed.
https://github.com/universam1/iSpindel/tree/master/drawer/mwx-Edition
Just wondering if any one else has used it, or is there a better option?
I have already ordered these PET Tubes.
https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/5-pcs-X...=item1ed26ca48c:g:rnQAAOSwv0tU4JMN&rmvSB=true

Thanks

 

[BrewYaute74]

Hi guys,

I'm struggling to make my temp sensor work. It is showing -127°c on the web page.

Is anyone have a solution for that ? I did not removed the diodes though.

Thank you all

 

[Scarabrew]

Hi guys,

I'm struggling to make my temp sensor work. It is showing -127°c on the web page.

Is anyone have a solution for that ? I did not removed the diodes though.

Thank you all

I had this problem twice. It was a bad soldering problem.

 

[fdsaasdf]

I bought some parts last year for this but was otherwise distracted. I now have some spare time, components and the PET enclosures. Is there an updated ideal parts/build list since the last one @Paiakan posted?

 

[Nj11]

I bought extras of everything except the 3d printed sled, enough to make about 5 or so iSpindels. If anyone is keen I am selling for what the parts cost me, $28 plus shipping if required.
Most stuff bought off aliexpress.
Includes:
PET Bottle
PCB
Wemos d1 mini
GYRO
TP4056
Battery (NCR18650B)
Switch
Resistors+diode
DS18B20

 

[owynp]

I bought extras of everything except the 3d printed sled, enough to make about 5 or so iSpindels. If anyone is keen I am selling for what the parts cost me, $28 plus shipping if required.
Most stuff bought off aliexpress.
Includes:
PET Bottle
PCB
Wemos d1 mini
GYRO
TP4056
Battery (NCR18650B)
Switch
Resistors+diode
DS18B20

I'd be interested - can you PM me and we can arrange payment? Many thanks in advance

 

[gabbawocky]

I bought extras of everything except the 3d printed sled, enough to make about 5 or so iSpindels. If anyone is keen I am selling for what the parts cost me, $28 plus shipping if required.
Most stuff bought off aliexpress.
Includes:
PET Bottle
PCB
Wemos d1 mini
GYRO
TP4056
Battery (NCR18650B)
Switch
Resistors+diode
DS18B20

I'd be interested too.

 

[Thomas Wood]

I bought extras of everything except the 3d printed sled, enough to make about 5 or so iSpindels. If anyone is keen I am selling for what the parts cost me, $28 plus shipping if required.

Yeh if there are easy enough instructions to do this I would be keen as well!

 

[user 1456]

...if there are easy enough instructions ...

[emoji23][emoji23][emoji23]

 

[Weizenbonk]

[emoji23][emoji23][emoji23]

Yeah, nah.
I have made my first one of these and it is working a treat. I haven't tried it in my kegmenter to see what the signal is like inside a stainless vessel, as I have a brew finishing off. Signal is ok in a fermenter fridge about 20m from the access point and a few through walls. Pretty amazing for a little device! I am thinking I will probably need a repeater close by....luckily I have a spare ESP8266 for this project - https://hackaday.com/2017/12/25/the-wifi-repeater-you-probably-have-on-your-bench/
Amazing piece of tech - loving it. I found the guide on this page really helpful for the soldering work - http://www.3d-mechatronics.de/en/ispindel-diy-set_151.html (see Soldering Guide - Downlod) - the only issue I had was that I used a BAT43 as per current recommendations and it has polarity. Of course I put it in the wrong way first up (cathode/band to D0 is correct).
I bought and waited for enough parts for 4 units, but I only need 2. So I have parts for 2 complete units which I am looking sell, either as parts or a completed unit if you don't fancy the soldering. PM me if you are interested.
Next project - Keg level monitoring in my Keezer using an ESP8266 and 5 load cells...

 

[kaljade]

Yeah, nah.
I have made my first one of these and it is working a treat. I haven't tried it in my kegmenter to see what the signal is like inside a stainless vessel, as I have a brew finishing off. Signal is ok in a fermenter fridge about 20m from the access point and a few through walls. Pretty amazing for a little device! I am thinking I will probably need a repeater close by....luckily I have a spare ESP8266 for this project - https://hackaday.com/2017/12/25/the-wifi-repeater-you-probably-have-on-your-bench/
Amazing piece of tech - loving it. I found the guide on this page really helpful for the soldering work - http://www.3d-mechatronics.de/en/ispindel-diy-set_151.html (see Soldering Guide - Downlod) - the only issue I had was that I used a BAT43 as per current recommendations and it has polarity. Of course I put it in the wrong way first up (cathode/band to D0 is correct).
I bought and waited for enough parts for 4 units, but I only need 2. So I have parts for 2 complete units which I am looking sell, either as parts or a completed unit if you don't fancy the soldering. PM me if you are interested.
Next project - Keg level monitoring in my Keezer using an ESP8266 and 5 load cells...

Hi there,

Thanks for posting the link to the soldering guide! I've also decided to go down the diode path and already ordered all my parts, I'm just wordering if you could post a pic of the correct diode placement as I'm not too sure looking at the guide?

Appreciate your time!

Cheers,

Kal

 

[eviltabouleh]

What's the going rate for getting the sled printed.
I have a 3D printer and a supply of filament so I can print some. Who wants to swap for random parts.?
You scratch mine I'll scratch yours