Thread: How to control pneumatic solenoid via VSA

Tweet

I'm trying to figure out how to add control of a double-acting pneumatic solenoid valve to my current VSA-based show (SSC-32 for servos and an Enntec for the DMX light show).

How is this typically accomplished? What relay boards work with VSA and can handle the required 24VDC signal? (two relays required: one for each direction of the valve)

Thanks in advance!

I typically use a DMX relay/dimmer pack since I am using DMX for the light shows I also use it for the pneumatics to turn on and off the valves. Simply plug into one of the 4 outlets and program via VSA when you want to turn on the valve and then close.

I use a DMX dimmer/relay pack to turn on and off a 120 volt a/c relay. The relay then turns on and off the 24vdc power to the solenoid valve. If your valve requires another power source to reverse then you would need two relays. The relays I use are about $3. There are other relay devices such as the Kit74 that VSA will communicate directly with that also turn other devices on and off when tapped into that device's power source.

What I like about the DMX dimmer/relay pack is that they typically come with 4 dmx controllable channels with 2 AC outlets for each channel. So you can control whatever is plugged into those outlets. DMX will allow you to turn devices on and off as well as "dim" by lowering the voltage. Not all AC devices can be dimmed but typically many lights can be dimmed. I don't use the dimmer packs to dim lights but I like having that option.

Before you go the Kit74 route, you will want to make sure that you have a computer that can operate it. Take a look at this thread Kit 74 USB vs Parallel in VSA IIf you go the Kit74 route, I would recommend getting one already assembled unless you are an accomplished soldering technician. Here's a link to an assembled one. http://store.qkits.com/moreinfo.cfm/QK74A

jamma,

Thanks for the message. I just did a mini-writeup on just what you're asking. Take a look here to get some ideas. Oh - if you have 24v solenoids, you'd just need to change the power supply that they are connected to, and make sure to connect the ground of the 24v supply back to the board.

[EDIT] - Strike that. You wouldn't have to connect your 24v supply to the Medusa DMX. It would just replace the 120Vac in the diagram (connecting between your solenoid valves and the relays)

- Hook