Setting Up Phidgets Legacy Lib21

968x601 Setting Up Phidgets

Setting Up Phidgets Legacy Lib21

These are outdated instructions, and only apply to Roastmaster 10 and earlier, which uses Phidgets Lib21 software.

If you are configuring Phidgets for Roastmaster 11 (October, 2017) or later, please see the instructions for Lib22 in Setting Up Phidgets

Phidgets offer a versatile and scalable solution for monitoring and logging roast temperatures with Roastmaster’s Data Logging option. Roastmaster connects to one or more Phidget Temperature Sensors through your WiFi network via a network “host”.

Please see How Do Phidgets Work? to become acquainted with how a network host is used to communicate with Roastmaster.

To use Phidgets with Roastmaster, you’ll need…

  1. A Phidget Temperature Sensor and attached K or J thermocouple(s)
  2. A network host to send wireless readings (one of the following):
    • A full-size computer, e.g. Mac or PC desktop or laptop
    • Phidget SBC with USB WiFi adapter
    • Another brand of wireless DIY computer
  3. A wireless Ethernet network
  4. Roastmaster’s Data Logging entitlement (available as an in app purchase in the “Probes” section of Roastmaster’s Utilities screen)

Configuring your Host

Once you have procured the necessary parts, you need to configure your host with the Phidget Network Server software drivers that allow it to communicate with Roastmaster on your wireless network.

Phidgets Library 21

Configuring a Phidgets Version 21 Host

Roastmaster 10 and earlier

Standard Computer Host, e.g. laptop, desktop

  1. Download and install the appropriate version of Driver Library 21
  2. Attach the Temperature Sensor to your computer via the supplied USB cable
  3. Launch the Preference Pane (Mac) or Control Panel (Windows)
  4. Assign an arbitrary Server ID, e.g. Danny’s Mac, My Phidget Host, etc.
  5. Turn the WebService on.

SBC Host

  1. Download and install the appropriate version of Driver Library 21 to a standard computer. This software and the computer will be used only once to perform the initial configuration of the SBC.
  2. Attach the Temperature Sensor to your SBC via the supplied USB cable
  3. In the PhidgetSBC tab of the Phidgets Preference Pane (Mac) or Control Panel (Windows), double click the SBC to launch the web Administration Console.
  4. In the Administration Console, verify that Library 21 is installed on your SBC.
  5. Make the SBC a member of your network in one of two ways:
    • If you will network the SBC with an Ethernet cable…
      1. Attach one end of the cable to your router or switch, and the other to the SBC.
    • If you will network the SBC using the Phidget wireless adapter…
      1. Attach the wireless adapter to the SBC.
      2. In the Administration Console, navigate to Status > Wireless.
      3. Select your network in the detected networks, and enter the network password.
      4. To automatically join this network whenever the SBC is in range, verify that the “Remember this network” checkbox is checked. If so, the SBC/Temperature Sensor combination will become completely self-sufficient, automatically joining your network when it boots, and available for immediate use to Roastmaster.
      5. Click “Add This Network”.
  6. Navigate to the Phidgets > phidget21 Webservice pane.
  7. Verify that Phidget Webservice is enabled.
  8. Assign an arbitrary Server ID, e.g. Danny’s SBC, My Phidget Host, etc.
  9. Click “Start” to launch the Webservice if it is not already running.

Define Probes in Roastmaster

After configuring the network host, it’s time to define the probes you want to use in Roastmaster. This process is only performed once. After the probes are defined, they will be available for the life of the app on your device.

If you have not yet purchased the Data Logging option, you can purchase it by navigating to Probes, and tapping “Probe Store” in the bottom toolbar.

  1. Navigate to “Probes” in Roastmaster.
  2. Tap “+” to create a new probe.
  3. Choose Phidgets Temperature Sensing.
  4. Locate the Serial number of the Temperature Sensor.
    • Standard Computer Host: Navigate to the “Phidgets” tab of the “Phidget Control Panel” application. The Serial # column will show the serial number of any attached Temperature Sensors
    • SBC Host: Navigate to the Phidgets > Status pane. The Serial Number column will show the serial number of any attached temperature sensors.
  5. Enter the Temperature Sensor Serial number in the “Serial” field of the probe definition.
  6. Choose the “Port” that your thermocouple will be attached to on the Temperature Sensor
  7. Choose the correct Alloy Type: K or J
  8. Name the probe
  9. Tap Save

Verify Connection

After entering a valid Serial Number and Port, Roastmaster should display a green “Linked” status, as well as the current temperature of the probe.

If you see “Unlinked” displayed in red, and have followed all of these steps, it’s very likely that a firewall somewhere on your network (either on the host or the router itself) is blocking the Network Server traffic. Please visit Troubleshooting Phidgets for a list of common connection problems and possible solutions.

Begin Using Your Probe!

Once your probe definition has been created, and displays a linked status, all that’s left to do in the future is to link the probe to reading curves in roasts to report temperatures and log data.

  1. In “Roasts”, tap the “+” button to create a new roast.
  2. Tap the curve button, and choose “Create New Curve”
  3. Set the curve type to “Reading”
  4. Tap the “Bind To” field to bind the curve to your new probe definition.
  5. Save the curve

In the roast console, you can select your curve by tapping the console graph. Roastmaster will display live temperature readings as they change on the probe. After you start the roast, Roastmaster will log these temperatures at the interval defined in the curve for the duration of the roast.

Have a look at some of our screencasts, particularly those in the “Roasting with Roastmaster” series, for instructions on how to leverage curves and profiles with Data Logging to create effortless workflows with vital Reference Curves for targeting, and Data Curves for logging new data.

  1. Justus du Toit
    Justus du ToitDec 26, 2013

    Hi, will it work if I use my Samsung 10.1 tablet with usb adapter as host for the Phidgets temperature sensor?

    I have purchased the Roast master app from the Istore for my Iphone, guess I will have to repurchase it if I wanted to use it on my Samsung tablet?(that’s if the app will be supported)

    Regards

    (South Africa-Roasting with a Genio Mezzo 6kg roaster)

    • Danny Hall
      Danny HallDec 26, 2013

      Hi Justus

      I’m sorry, Roastmaster doesn’t run on the Android platform – just iOS, so you couldn’t use the app itself on your Samsung.

      A Phidgets host, though, is a completely separate item. It can either be their SBC Debian mini-computer or a computer capable of running their driver software (usually a laptop or desktop running OSX or Windows). Since Phidgets is open-source, there could conceivably exist somewhere an app or driver that would let you use the tablet as a host if it has a USB port that would drive the Phidget Temperature Sensor. I can only assume this is possible, though – I don’t know for sure. I can only say that Roastmaster itself would not run on the Galaxy.

      Sorry – hope this has helped you.

      Kind regards
      Danny

      • Joe K. McKay
        Joe K. McKayOct 30, 2017

        Can I simply use the SBC3 with a wireless dongle controlled directly by a laptop without a router in between?

        Thx

        • Danny Hall
          Danny HallOct 30, 2017

          No. The API library operates on TCP/IP, so the router is a requirement. Though, keep in mind – it does not have to an internet-equipped router. In other words, you can go to an electronics store and buy a cheap ($25 USD wifi travel router), and have it linked in a few minutes. Internet is not required – just a wireless TCP/IP connection between Roastmaster and the SBC.

  2. Kenneth Cho
    Kenneth ChoJan 14, 2014

    Up to how many channels can be tracked? I’m thinking I’ll pursue the Phidget 4-input w/SBC host, and I’d like to monitor all 4 inputs if possible.

    BTW, looking forward to using the software. Looks very well integrated especially the bean inventory features.

    • Danny Hall
      Danny HallJan 14, 2014

      Hi Kenneth

      Thanks for the kind words.

      There is no limit in software as to how many curves can be tracked at once – theoretically you can track as many as you want to.

      Phidgets perform very well – you’ll be happy with them. A little more work to set up than the other options, but well worth it IMO.

      • Kenneth Cho
        Kenneth ChoJan 16, 2014

        That’s great Danny. Now I HAVE to buy the whole app to try it. Thank you!

        On another note, have you ever looked into the BBQ/smoker market? It’s my other hobby, and the data logging principles are pretty similar. Even a simple data logging app that measured 2 pts for temp/time would work very well. Check out http://www.amazingribs.com/BBQ_buyers_guide/thermometer_buying_guide.html

        • Danny Hall
          Danny HallJan 18, 2014

          You know, my pop pop keeps suggesting that. He’s big into smoking meats, and you’re right – the concepts are almost identical. I’ve though about how it might work. There are a few hurdles with long running apps in iOS, but I’m interested in the prospect. Thanks for the link – Ill check it out.

  3. Kenneth Cho
    Kenneth ChoJan 18, 2014

    The Phidget possibilities are making my head spin. In addition to the 4-input temp sensor, could I also hookup voltage and amp sensors and track those in RoastMaster? Tracking these variables would aid Quest users like myself. Thank you!

    • Danny Hall
      Danny HallJan 18, 2014

      Aha – mine as well! 🙂 Now that data logging is fully implemented, I’m excited about the prospect of roaster control. Perhaps a precursor to that is branching into the other Phidgets likes you’re suggesting – recording variables like that exactly as you enter them on the roaster – never having to touch a thing in Roastmaster except for entering the crack times. That’s one of the reasons I’ve always been such a big fan of Phidgets.

  4. Erik Grammer
    Erik GrammerFeb 04, 2014

    Hi Danny,
    Finally got the San Franciscan roaster and have incorporated two phidgets temperature sensors connected via the sbc host. It’s working well but wanted to mention that it only allowed me to select port 0 for both sensors. I initially thought the first sensor would be 0 and the second 1 but 0 is the only choice that allows connection. Both sensors seem to properly read independently so maybe I just misunderstood the setup?
    Thanks!
    Erik

    • Danny Hall
      Danny HallFeb 04, 2014

      Hi Erik

      Funny – you crossed my mind earlier today – I was wondering if the roaster and Phidgets got delivered to you.

      I’m trying to remember the phone conversation I had with Bill, looking at the emails I thought you were only getting 1 port, so I only included one 1-port on the parts list I sent you. Sorry if I misunderstood, or maybe plans changed after we spoke. Either way, it doesn’t make a difference to Roastmaster.

      If you were using the 4-port temperature sensor, you’d enter the serial number of the 4-port sensor, and Roastmaster would give you the choice of ports 0, 1, 2 and 3. In your setup, you just enter 2 separate serials, and each will just show the one port: 0, which it sounds like you’ve already got under control.

      Should work just fine either way. Any questions, just let me know.

      Hope you enjoy the new roaster!

      Danny

      • Erik Grammer
        Erik GrammerFeb 04, 2014

        Understood – that’s exactly what happened. I was thinking 2 ports from the beginning but really didn’t know enough to be able to articulate it well. I have to say your instructions are spot on and everything was surprisingly easy to set up – a sign of good design on your part!

        Everything is working beautifully and the San Franciscan is an amazing roaster. Roastmaster has been easy to use throughout the process and I feel like I’ve only scratched the surface on what the app is capable of (I can only take in so much new data at once).

        I’ll definitely send some setup pix and/or video once we’ve got everything mounted and running the way we like. Thanks again for all the help – it’s made everything go so much more smoothly!

        Erik

        • Danny Hall
          Danny HallFeb 05, 2014

          Great to hear! Thanks for the kind words.

          Yes, please send pics or a video – I’d love to see the roaster in her new home.

          Keep an eye on the screencasts section of the site. I’m currently working on one explaining some of the advanced features of profiles, and how to incorporate them into different workflows.

          Danny

  5. Felix Wong
    Felix WongMay 22, 2015

    Hi
    Did you use two grounded probe or ungrounded probe on the phidgets 1048 setup? And where did you get the probe from.

    Thank you

    • Danny Hall
      Danny HallMay 22, 2015

      Hi

      I used 2 ungrounded (shielded) probes on my last roaster. On my current roaster, ! have 3. The bean temp is ungrounded, and I think the other 2 are as well, though I bought those second hand, so not entirely sure.

      Ungrounded probes are a little slower to respond, but the result in smoother curves because there’s less jumping around.

      The two shown in the pic came from Auberins.com. They are model 6″ WRNK-191. They’re die hard – I’ve had them for years. Omega.com and Amazon are great places to shop for probes as well.

      • Felix Wong
        Felix WongMay 24, 2015

        Thank you so much. Danny

  6. Felix Wong
    Felix WongMay 24, 2015

    I bought two grounded probe from Mr Yen and the phidgets 1048. Seem like the grounded probes doesn’t work. I keep getting error. Do you think the phidgets usb isolator will make it work? I don’t want to buy more probes (without the fitting),because Mr yen probes fit in the nut hole.

    • Danny Hall
      Danny HallMay 25, 2015

      Does the probe work if you remove it from the roaster, so that it is NOT in contact with the metal housing of the roaster? If so, then yes – the USB isolator may help. You can also try a ferrite bead on the outside of the cable. These can reduce noise too. What error are you seeing?

      • Felix Wong
        Felix WongMay 28, 2015

        I keep getting this error. Thermocouple 1 reported a potential of -15.5698mV which is below the minimum of -10.0094mV.

        • Danny Hall
          Danny HallMay 28, 2015

          Where do you see this error? Roastmaster shouldn’t be reporting it. Are you able to connect with Roastmaster? One of my temperature sensors reports this in the control panel/preference pane, but the probe attached to it works fine.

  7. Biowilly
    BiowillySep 14, 2015

    Hi,
    I have an Ambex YM-5 roaster with a type J thermocouple. Can I use this with your suggested Phidget setup?

    • Biowilly
      BiowillySep 14, 2015

      I also have a Watlow EZ-Zone PID installed on the roaster. What would be the easiest way to set this up?

      • Danny Hall
        Danny HallSep 14, 2015

        Yes, a J type can be used with Phidgets. But, it’s sometimes the case that you’ll need to install a separate thermocouple specifically for data logging software. Newer roasters are often either built specifically for data logging, with an extra thermocouple, or a spare port for a bean temp probe. But if not, the factory TC is usually integrated into the machine hardware (safety features, hi limit, etc.). If so, you cannot split the wires or piggy-back, you’ll need to either drill another hole, or find and commandeer an existing bolt hole that’s threaded all the way through if one exists near the bean mass.

        The only way to know for sure if you need to install a separate probe is to check with the manufacturer directly. If so, ask them if they have a good source for an appropriately-sized “dual element” J type thermocouples. Dual element probes have two sets of wire, with 2 distinct junctions inside the same tip. You can safely replace the existing single-element TC with a dual-element TC.

        If you need more info, I’d be happy to talk to them on your behalf – just let me know.

  8. Christian Almeida
    Christian AlmeidaJul 09, 2016

    Hi,
    I’d like to know whether I can use a Phidgets 1046_0 – PhidgetBridge 4-Input in order to use RTDs (using resistors) since I do prefer RTDs over TCs. So instead of using a PTS/TC combo I would be using a PhidhetBridge/RTD/resistor combo along with the 1073_0 – PhidgetSBC3 acting as a host.
    So, is this RTD setup feasible? Or a PTS/TC is the only way to go with the RoastMaster…

    • Danny Hall
      Danny HallJul 11, 2016

      Sorry, no–just the K and J Temp Sensors for Phidgets at the moment. But, I’m working heavily on probes for the next update–particularly in the area of OpenSource protocols for things like Raspberry Pi, etc. I do plan on evaluating RTD for Phidgets in the process. Feel free to check back with me. I’ll be looking for early adopter beta testers if it’s feasible.

  9. Mike M
    Mike MNov 10, 2016

    Hi Danny,
    Any way to also include an 1138_0 air pressure sensor input in addition to the PTS for gas pressure data logging? I am setting up two thermocouples with the SBC3.

    • Danny Hall
      Danny HallNov 22, 2016

      Not yet, no. But the version nearing release will provide support for a networking protocol whereby I do plan to support alternate sensing for pressure, and other things.

  10. sam
    samNov 11, 2016

    Hi Danny,
    yesterday i hooked up my data logging and probes and all was working well today I turned everything back on but for some reason the probes are reading Unlinked …. any ideas as to why this would be ?

    • Danny Hall
      Danny HallNov 22, 2016

      Hi Sam

      I’ve been out of the office since last Friday, just now catching up. I sent you an email. Let me know if you’re still having problems.

      Danny

  11. Sharif
    SharifNov 23, 2016

    Hey Danny,

    Roastmaster is amazing so far – just got my phidgets set up today, along with the SBC3 and Wifi dongle. Going through your instructions to set up via wifi dongle method, wondering if there is a step missing? Do I need to connect the SBC to my mac via usb for the initial set up ?

    Not quite sure how to have it show up in the PhidgetsSBC tab.

    • Danny Hall
      Danny HallNov 26, 2016

      Hi Sharif

      The SBC should have BonJour running, so you should typically be able to configure the SBC over Bonjour without tethering it to your Mac with USB. But, if firewall settings interfere with that, the USB cable may be necessary the first time to setup the network with your wifi SSID and password. Just make sure to check “remember this network” so that the SBC connects to your wifi in subsequent launches.

      Let me know if you still have issues.

      Danny

      • Sharif
        SharifDec 13, 2016

        Thanks Danny,

        Yea ended up having to be setup wired for the first time. Running excellent now.

  12. Jeehoo Lee
    Jeehoo LeeFeb 13, 2017

    Hi~Danny!
    I have set up phidget PTS with notebook(windows 10) and K type thermocouple as instructions.
    But the Roastmaster app. is Not able to be Linked to the Phidget sensor.
    what should I do? Or check up something ?
    Please help me..

    And..for the latest version of Roastmaster app. what version of phidget libraries should I install??
    This page only introduce for version 7.0.3.

    • Danny Hall
      Danny HallFeb 13, 2017

      The overly-agressive Windows firewall is likely the culprit. In an effort to increase internet security, it blocks TCP traffic on non-standard ports, so the traffic from your Temperature Sensor is probably not reaching Roastmaster. Try adding a Firewall “rule” to allow the traffic on the TCP Web Service port that the Phidgets Control Panel is using. For example, if the Phidgets Web Service is set to port “5001”, you can add an incoming and outgoing rule to allow TCP traffic on port 5001. You should get a connection then.

      Here is a link for adding Windows Firewall rules: http://www.howtogeek.com/112564/how-to-create-advanced-firewall-rules-in-the-windows-firewall/

      Let me know how it goes.

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