New domoticz installation 433mhz RFcomm KAKU & rbPi question

[jaimevisser]

So I just installed Domoticz on my linux home server without a hitch. Connected the rfxcom rfxtrx433e transceiver and it was detected without problems. Added one temp/humidity sensor to the bathroom and added a temp/humidity sensor with probe to the aquarium (measuring water temp). Added three KAKU switches to the aquarium to control lights, added them to Domoticz and tested and set up everything just right. Then I closed the aquarium cabinet and reliability of the switches went out the window.

Looking at the aquarium cabinet I remembered the panels are made of aluminium, turning the cabinet into a metal box (with the side to the wall being open). Some testing with the KAKU remote clearly showed a severely reduced range when the cabinet is closed. Leaving it open is not an option (cats). I have a couple of ideas on how to fix this but would like some feedback .

Option 1:
Better antenna for the rfxcomm. Don't know where to get this, but should be the easiest change.

Option 2:
Domoticz with rfxcomm on a rbPi in the living room. Most switches will be near the living room anyway so this might not be a bad idea.

Option 3:
Slave rbPi with switching hardware in the aquarium cabinet (with wifi). Wifi accesspoint in the living room probably can reach inside the cabinet (need to test with phone) and the rbPi can switch multiple things.

I'm leaning towards #2 as this would be quite easy to achieve and have a high chance of success. Any other options I'm forgetting?

[DutchHans]

Hi, i had the same problem with metal garage doors. Solved it by taking the kaku sensor apart and repaced the magnetic switch with a remote magnetic switch. (A wired agnetic switch) i solderd this one onto the contacts of the built in. This way i could place the kaku sensor away from the metal doors.. works for over a year now..
Cheers,Hans

[jaimevisser]

Went with option 2, works like a charm!

[amymcpherson]

Garage doors are the necessary part of a garage and it is very important to provide safety to our cars and vehicles also. In order to run it smoothly its repair and replace is must. There are various garage doors repair teams available which provide reliable and reasonable repair services . Find more about garages.