![]() The hardware for eRVin is an inexpensive microcontroller with a special interface that connects with the Firefly/RV-C system via a simple four wire cable and allows local and remote control of the various on board equipment via an “app” or webpage. Additionally, one can create their own sub-systems that interface with eRVin, for example GPS tracking, presence detection, remote temperature monitoring, etc., etc. The beauty of it is, all systems on board share a common language and are connected in a unified network. In other cases, such as locks, shades and slides, the sub-systems are controlled by the Firefly panel or an adjunct controller. In some cases the sub-system vendor needs to produce their product with an RV-C interface, some examples are Magnum, Garnet SeeLevel and the Surge Guard Transfer Switch. While older RV-C systems might only be connected to lighting equipment, newer models will have most if not all other sub-systems tied in such as HVAC, charger/inverter, tank levels, transfer switch, fans, locks, awnings, slides, etc. If a coach has “multiplex lighting” it is likely it has a basic RV-C network. Such systems are common on older (after 2006) high end RV’s and lately can be found on many of the RV’s being produced today. Most often this network will take the form of a Firefly control system which is a foundation product. The primary project goal is to help enhance the integration of lower cost non-proprietary technology with RV-C as well as to provide a baseline means to openly share information while keeping the complexity to a minimum.Ī prerequisite to use eRVin is some form of exiting RV-C network on board the RV. ![]() The eRVin system participates in the RV-C network and can hear and talk to most of the associated equipment. While RV-C is a public open standard with a detailed published specifications, and while many vendors to date have produced products that support it, the specifics of those implementations appear to be proprietary, so there is little to no specific documentation for DIY’ers. It also is very similar to a marine data sharing technology known as NMEA2000, in fact I believe RV-C is based on NMEA2000. It is based on Controller Area Network (CAN) technology found in all modern cars and trucks. The RV Industry Association (RVIA), circa 2006 began developing it’s own automation technology system called RV-C. Because of this, unlike products designed to work in a grid connected home, there are very few inexpensive “automation” products that can be implemented as a cohesive system on an RV, at least not without a lot of expertise in programming and networking. Most of the lighting and other systems on an RV operate on 12 volts DC, not the 120 volt AC found in every home. Ever heard of a “Smart Home” or “Home Automation”? Well the eRVin project is intended to bring home automation like capabilities to later model recreational vehicles (RV’s).
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