16 sensors to OSC network

This interface transforms the signal sent by 8 analog sensors into OSC (network protocol) messages, as well as the all or nothing signal sent by 8 digital sensors such as dry contact switches.

This module works for analog and digital /all-or-nothing sensors.

The board can simply be plugged to an RJ-45 Ethernet connector leading to a computer or a network switch. OSC is a UDP network protocol compatible with real time data. It can be paired with a WIFI router to transmit the data wirelessly.

This interface can also be used as a Midi-OSC bridge and is compatible with our full range of Midi boards, for sensor inputs or actuator outputs.

Applications

Any simple sensor can be plugged to the analog inputs of this interface board : sensors forlight, temperature, airflow, pressure, potentiometer, proximeter infrared light... These analog sensors return a varying and progressive signal that the interface converts into OSC messages with proportionnal values to what is sent by the sensors, with a high definition of 4096 intervals. All or nothing sensors can also be plugged onto the analog inputs if they have the correct white 3 pin connectors.

The 8 digital inputs are supposed to be connected to all or nothing sensors, such as switches, touch-buttonss, sensitive floor tiles, ... These sensors can be grouped together on a flat ribbon câble or have individual 2 way connectors (an orientation key is not necessary).

Variousadapters make it possible to use this interface board with sensors from different brands.

The "Loupiotes" blog here explains how to make an attractive casing and convert connections for this board.

Technical information

Fastening and connections

• 8 analog inputs (individual connectors with orientation key)
• 8 digital inputs (header for 16 way flat ribbon cable)
• 1 RJ-45 Ethernet network connector
• 1 Midi input (works as a Midi merger)
• 1 Midi output
• 1 power supply domino screw connector
• 4 fastening screw-holes, on each corner

Compatibility and operation

The card sends information in Open Sound Control protocol (in 12 bits) continuously, at an adjustable pace. All real time data management or music software are compatible with this protocol.
A non exhaustive list of software capable of receiving information from this module : Max MSP, Pure-Data, Processing, Usine …  It is possible to use the data with a different software with an OSC bridge.

Technical features

- IP adress can be configured through a web site, accessible from a computer with a network cable : no additional interface is needed.

- 3 network configurations can be saved (IP adresses and UDP data reception ports) for each card.

- It is possible to combine multiple cards with different adresses connected to an ethernet switch.

- 100BASE-T Ethernet.

- High-definition : sensor measurements over 4096 intervals (12 bits).

- Power supply : this board accepts continuous or alternative current, by any power supply with a tension going from 8V to 11V. The current must be at least 300 mA. A battery or two combined saline batteries work just as well. A power supply is automatically provided with the sold product.

- OSC output setting : the wait time between 2 measurements is adjustable.This lets one change the amount of measured values between 110 and 3000 per second for each sensor.

- Midi input : the Midi messages coming in are translated to OSC protocol and sent out on the ethernet output.

- Midi Output : through the ethernet plug it is possible to send OSC instructions destined to be translated into Midi by the card, and sent out the Midi output connector.

- Connections :
The analog inputs use 3 way extension cords (3 wires per sensor) and are compatible with any sensor functionning in 0 / 5V (make sure to plug in the right order).
 The digital inputs use 16 way flat ribbon cables (2 wires per sensor) or can be plugged to an adaptor for screwable domino connectors.

- Board size : 5 x 15 cm

How to access the card's web site ?

For this tutorial, one shall need the documentation available in the « Télécharger » tab at the top of this description page : 8-Ana_OSC.pdf.

This part explains where to configure the computer's IP adress. One must go into : Settings-Network & Internet - Properties

In the window that appears one must scroll down to find IP settings  and click – Edit.

Another window opens and your can select Automatic IP or Manual.

Select and fill in the IP settings as shown in the image below. These settings can all be reconfigured from the card's web-site.

Programming and documentation

- Patchers or Max, Pure-Data, bridge to Isadora + documentation
- Patchers for Max, Pure-data, bridge to Isadora with detailed explanations.
- Documentation : 8 AnaOSC.pdf and Capteurs simples.pdf