Author: Rob
How to Build the eRVin Hardware
As described on the home page of this site, eRVin is a micro-controller that interfaces to an RV-C based Firefly RV control system that is present on many late model RV’s. eRVin provides the ability to remotely (from anywhere there is internet) control the RV systems via an “app” or web page, and also adds additional support for devices like the Amazon Echo (Alexa) to enable voice control of lights and other subsystems. This postLearn More
How to Connect Devices to the RV-C Network
The diagram below outlines the basic RV-C network layout. The Firefly Gx panel has a 12 volt power supply feed and this is where the switching and dimming takes place for the lights (or other devices) as shown to the left of the diagram. The right of the diagram shows the RV-C network. The blue line is the main Trunk, note the ‘T’ at each end of the trunk indicating a 120 ohm termination resistor.Learn More
Working with 3M Mini-Clamp Connectors
This post describes how to prepare wire and crimp the 3M Mini-Clamp connectors to it. Tools needed are a pair of slip joint or channel lock style pliers, wire cutters (or sharp scissors) and a wire stripper or utility knife. Mini-Clamp II Series 371 Plugs part # 3M 37104-A165-00E. These are the connectors Firefly/Spyder uses for all of their drop cable connections. Easily crimps with a pair of pliers. Available from many sources including Firefly IntegrationsLearn More
Installing gpsd Alternate Method w/o Enabling IPv6
This is an alternate method to install gpsd daemon on a Raspberry Pi running CoachProxy or eRVin version 0.2 and older. eRVin version 0.3 and newer already has the gpsd daemon installed. This method allows the dependency error to occur during installation, describes a fix, then allows the install to complete. This method was how I originally resolved the problem and is just here for reference. The newer install method fixes the dependency issue (whichLearn More
Adding GPS to your eRVin System
Adding a GPS Receiver to eRVin Adding a GPS receiver to eRVin is very straightforward, especially for eRVin version 0.3 and newer, all you need do is plug a USB GPS receiver into one of the eRVin USB ports! So why does eRVin need a GPS? eRVin is an automation system, the more things it knows, like location, the more useful the things it can do. Here are some ideas: Set specific lightsLearn More
Installing an eRVin Software Image
What’s an Image? An eRVin image is a data file that contains all the necessary software for your eRVin hardware allowing it to control your RV, this includes the operating system (OS) as well as all the application and configuration files. The uncompressed size of the image is about 3.5GB, the zipped download is about 1.1GB. This post describes how to download an image and flash it to a micro SD card. The download mightLearn More
Connecting eRVin to your RV
At this point you should have assembled the eRVin hardware then downloaded and flashed the eRVin OS image. This tutorial assumes you have an existing wifi network aboard your RV, preferably with full time internet access. Connecting eRVin to your RV-C Network Step 1 – connect your eRVin system to the RV-C network on your RV. The easiest and most accessible place to do this is on the front of a Firefly panel. You may haveLearn More
Downloading and Installing eRVin Configuration Files
Now that you have the eRVin hardware built, the image installed and have it connected to your RV, the first thing you will want to do is download and install the proper configuration for your RV. eRVin OS v0.5 or later adds the ability for you to easily download and install new or updated configuration files via a simple tap or click operation from the eRVin “app” (aka “dashboard”). No complicated computer knowledge needed! A fewLearn More
Accessing the eRVin Raspberry Pi Desktop
eRVin runs on a Raspberry Pi microcomputer. In some instances it is useful to connect directly to the Raspberry Pi (RPi) to accomplish specific tasks, for instance installing a new program or doing some updates. Sometimes it is just a desire to explore what is happening behind the scenes. If you have no interest in those sort of things this post isn’t for you, otherwise read on for detailed instructions on how to get aLearn More
Accessing Node-Red Flows
Accessing and using Node-Red may be needed to complete many possible tasks to customize eRVin for your RV. Tasks such as configuring Virtual Smart Home Alexa Account integration (eRVinOS v0.6x and above), or customizing the lighting buttons to match the configuration of your specific RV, or updating a particular “flow” with a new version. Don’t worry, it’s a graphical point and click environment and easy to work with. This post describes how to connect toLearn More