Infra-red controlled smart AC outlet

The latest buzz in the tech world has been about “smart” home technology. These technologies are futuristic, and make day-to-day tasks simpler, but for most of us the price for such luxuries isn’t realistic. There aren’t many cheap alternatives for the consumer; however, for the maker and DIYers there are plenty. DIY Hacks and How Tos created a cheap DIY “smart” tech outlet in his instructable: Control Any Circuit With a TV Remote (and an Arduino). After seeing this, I wanted to make my own spin off on his project, but more tailored for “smart” home enthusiasts. So to bring features of a “smart” home to the everyday household, I designed “Smart Outlet”.

Smart Outlet is an infrared controlled AC outlet with an integrated timer. The infrared communication enables this outlet to be turned on and off from many feet away. Using the integrated timer, the outlet may also function as a digital timer, allowing the user to enter times in which the outlet turn on and off.

The Smart Outlet is the simpler way to control any appliance. There is no longer a need for confusing analog outlet timers or even getting off your couch to turn off or on the fan/lamp/clock. With about $20 and a few hours, you can start living in luxury by having the latest hyped tech: “smart” home technology. Let’s jump right into our first step: the parts list!

Infra-red controlled smart AC outlet

(The video below shows a demonstration of the Smart Outlet. Not shown in the camera’s view is the remote which is being pressed from behind the line of sight.)

Step 1: Get Parts!

You will need these parts:

-5V 500mA DC Power Supply

-Keyes IR Remote/Receiver Kit

-DS1307 RTC Module

-Keyes Relay Module

-Male Headers

-Female to Female Dupont Wire

-Arduino Pro Mini 5V (or Arduino Nano 3.0)

-Mountable AC Outlet

-IEC320 C14 Receptacle

Radioshack Project Enclosure 6x3x2″

-HD44780 (16×2)

-Heatshrink Tubing

-White/Black 18AWG wire (for 120V connections)

-Assorted 22AWG wire (for 5V connections)

-5cm by 7cm Perfboard

You will need these tools:

-Computer

-Wire Strippers

-Heat gun

-Soldering Iron (with rosin)

-Hot glue gun (with sticks)

-Multimeter

-Dremel

-Power Drill

For more detail: Infra-red controlled smart AC outlet

You will need these parts:

-5V 500mA DC Power Supply

-Keyes IR Remote/Receiver Kit

-DS1307 RTC Module

-Keyes Relay Module

-Male Headers

-Female to Female Dupont Wire

-Arduino Pro Mini 5V (or Arduino Nano 3.0)

-Mountable AC Outlet

-IEC320 C14 Receptacle

Radioshack Project Enclosure 6x3x2″

-HD44780 (16×2)

-Heatshrink Tubing

-White/Black 18AWG wire (for 120V connections)

-Assorted 22AWG wire (for 5V connections)

-5cm by 7cm Perfboard

You will need these tools:

-Computer

-Wire Strippers

-Heat gun

-Soldering Iron (with rosin)

-Hot glue gun (with sticks)

-Multimeter

-Dremel

-Power Drill

bdaniel716 days ago

It’s good to get off your couch..

brmarcum22 days ago
Nice project bergerab!

bergerab (author)  brmarcum22 days ago
Thanks so much! For this project I was originally going to use your AC to DC instructable to build my own power supply (using a 9v transformer I had laying around) but unfortunately my project box was too small to safely fit all the necessary components. So I just threw in a pre-made power supply but next time I play with some AC current I’ll have to man up and make my own AC to DC conversion circuit!

Don’t be such a scaredy cat! Always take your time with AC and be safe, but it’s super easy.

To be honest though, I really like how you hacked the pre-built transformer by soldering directly to the pins and then just stuffed it in. There’s no reason to make it harder than it needs to be.

nodcah27 days ago

Really awesome Instructable! Everything looks so great (including the pictures)! =D

bergerab (author)  nodcah27 days ago
Thanks so much! I love your HTML instructable too. I’ll have to find some time to practice so I can make my ibles look as cool as yours!

kalrog1 month ago
Great job on this Instructable! I love how much detail you provided, and the background research links really help. There is one suggestion I would make for your next build. A Bluetooth module would eliminate any line of sight issues, and also eliminate any issues of who has the remote (my wife and I argue about that all the time for our ceiling fan). You could use a pre-made app, or create your own with App Inventor 2. This would also allow you to use multiple devices in the same area without multiple remotes or crosstalk. Anyways, just a thought! I look forward to seeing more Instructables from you!

About The Author

Ibrar Ayyub

I am an experienced technical writer holding a Master's degree in computer science from BZU Multan, Pakistan University. With a background spanning various industries, particularly in home automation and engineering, I have honed my skills in crafting clear and concise content. Proficient in leveraging infographics and diagrams, I strive to simplify complex concepts for readers. My strength lies in thorough research and presenting information in a structured and logical format.

Follow Us:
LinkedinTwitter