attaching pH, and EC sensors

Hi,

    I've been checking out the make controller today because I'm thinking about putting together a project to automatically control environmental factors in my aquarium. In order to do this I would have to attach sensors that measured pH, temperature, electro -conductivity (total dissolved solids), and probably dissolved oxygen. However, I haven't been able to find too much information that has helped me figure out how these sensors can be attached. I know that sensors are available from companies such as Hanna (www.hannainst.com), but I could really use some help figuring out how to attach the sensors and process their input. If anyone has any leads I would sure appreciate it.

Thanks a lot!

Hello, I am working towards a similar set of capabilities for an experiment I will be working with a couple of research ecologists. If you can get me your email address somehow we could swap notes... In general though, it depends on each probe or sensor and what they produce and expect. If they output some voltage you may have to amplify it or condition it, read it then do some process conversion. If it is digital then you have to be able to parse and reprocess the I/O. So, we would have to discuss the specifics of each sensor/probe at a time. So, pick you favorite and we can start looking at it. How about say we started with Ph? Hope that helps. EBo --

If you have some sensors that you're considering, please post some links to their datasheets. The things you basically need to consider are: 1. how is it powered? 2. how does it communicate, and does the Make Controller offer that style of communication? 3. if the communication is protocol-based (as opposed to just a voltage, for example) do you need special software to process that data?