Please Note: This page is here for legacy purposes only. The impulse latching switch has been replaced by our new educational ESP32 Micropython kit, with a programmable low voltage relay module that has almost unlimited capabilities.

The NodeSwitch™ RN-12v-10w-0 unit is an Arduino compatible LED companion controller for our radio equipped motors. An RF (Radio Frequency) signal is used for transmission of the remote control signal, capable of passing through walls, and in most cases can reach anywhere inside a typical home.

A small antenna receives the control signal from the multi-channel remote control and a microprocessor then uses the decoded signals to activate the LED lighting (and optional motor output). The optional 'MiniMight' reversing motor controller can be used to operate devices that have a reversible 12v DC motor, such as our 12v window openers.

The MiniMight motor controller can also be re-purposed and used to control other devices (such as relays) by reprogramming the Arduino microprocessor with a simple download via USB from a laptop or similar device. This will be covered in the advanced instructions for reprogramming the microcontroller.

Not Another Dead-End Control System

Our multi-channel remotes have up to 14 channels that can be programmed to control blind motors and other devices. If you extend your system with Vera™ the possibilities are unlimited. Many users complain about isolated, proprietary control technologies, and we too have had the experience of using 6 different remotes in our living room. The RollerTrol™ system has been designed from the ground up to eliminate this problem of multiple, disconnected control systems. The ability to interface our motors with the Vera™ web server (or any device with a USB port) takes you one giant step forward to having a single, unified control system for all your devices.

If you decide to use our Vera™ control system, you can extend your system to work with phones, tablets, PC or any other web enabled device, whether at home or away (and continue using your original hand held remotes in your home). The Vera™ system also supports Z-Wave™, Insteon™, x10™ and other control protocols, and it can be added at any time - you do not have to purchase it at the outset.

The NodeSwitch™ controller is available in our online store

Our new NodeSwitch™ add-on controller allows the remote control to operate 12v LED lighting. For instance, our standard 8 channel remote could be set up to control 6 blinds and 2 groups of room lighting. You can split this up any way you like. Our 14 channel remote provides even more flexibility.

The LED strip lighting shown in the above picture has an adhesive backing and can be concealed behind valances or custom moulding (see picture below) to create spectacular indirect lighting effects. The soft, warm white color is easy on the eyes and the light is evenly distributed over a wide area, with no bright spots. You can also use spot lights or any other type of LED lighting, it doesn't have to be strip lighting (or use a combination of both).

The NodeSwitch™ LED controller provides a pleasant 'soft start' whereby the light is smoothly increased to half or full brightness. When it's time for lights out, the program code inside the Arduino microprocessor fades the light down to darkness. If you have ever woken up to blinding lights, you'll appreciate how pleasant the controlled start or fade can be.

The first Arduino (Italian for 'good friend') was released in 2005 by a team of very clever instructors at the Interaction Design Institute Ivrea (IDII) in Italy. Many consider it to be the most influential open-source hardware movement of its time. There are quite literally thousands of free code samples and project examples on the Internet, check out the main Arduino website.

The NodeSwitch™ LED controller comes pre-programmed, so if you like 'easy', you need to do nothing more except connect 12 volt power and the devices you wish to control (as described in Part 2, see link below), but please see Part 3 for the start of the discussion about its advanced programming capabilities.

The NodeSwitch™ controller is available in our online store

NodeSwitch™ Instructions Index:

Part 1: LED/Motor/Relay Controller: Introduction (you are here)

Part 2: LED/Motor/Relay Controller: Basic Operation

Part 3: LED/Motor/Relay Controller: Advanced Operation: Arduino IDE Editor

Part 4: LED/Motor/Relay Controller: Advanced Operation: Arduino Programming System

Part 5: LED/Motor/Relay Controller: Advanced Operation: Program Code Structure

Part 6: LED/Motor/Relay Controller: Advanced Operation: Jumper Locations

Part 7: LED/Motor/Relay Controller: Advanced Operation: Control Program Flow

Additional Resources:

Window Opener & Skylight Opener: Operating and Connection Info for our Chain Actuators