This project consists of a 4 channel general purpose receiver, connected to an Arduino NANO microcontroller, with a few relays for output. It becomes the "base" system for the remote control system in my RV.

In addition to the receiver I am building, a multi-channel transmitter must be used. Fortunately, many of the pre-assembled transmitters (from mfgs such as eMylo) do have certifications for use from both the US and European countries. But again, you must determine suitability.

Why go to all the trouble to build such a system when other systems exist, such as Lippert's LINC receivers and American Technology Components (ATC) Genesis System that might be suitable?

While these systems could be used, I decided against using them due to several factors:

• Centralized vs. Distributed system.
• Proprietary vs. Standardized system.
• Flexibility of assigning remote channels.
• Expandibility and configurability.

Distributed System: Systems such as the Lippert ans ATC systems are centralized in that they have a single chassis, typically installed behind or adjacent to a control panel. This works OK for slideouts and lighting that have their switch controls at the control panel, but not so well when the switch you want to control is 20ft from the control panel.

In a distributed system, multiple receivers are used, each one placed around the RV adjacent to the switch it will control. This prevents the hardship of needing to run wiring all over the RV. In my distributed system, I am locating a 4 Channel receiver behind the control panel as I need to control 4 devices; Awning (requires a channel for Extend and a second channel for Retract), the main living room (Salon) overhead lights, and the LED strip light at the Awning. If more than 4 channels are required, an expansion board can be used to add 2 or 4 more channels.

I decided to not remote the slideouts, as their impact is minimal. Afterall, you extend the slideouts when you arrive at your campsite, and retract them when you leave. However, you may likely operate the awning on a daily basis, so it merits remote control.

Standardized System: The Lippert and ATC systems are Proprietary, at least in the sense that there is no data available as to the methodology used for the link. In contrast, the wireless relay systems are more-or-less generic. Most of the time, a Brand A transmitter will work with a Brand B receiver. There are a few exceptions though, so there is not quite 100% compatibility.

Flexibility: There are a few limitations with the commercially available wireless relay systems. Most receivers can be programmed (learning mode) to handle multiple transmitters, thus one transmitter can also control multiple relays. However, the limitation comes from two areas:

• Generally a 4 channel receiver programs all channels of the transmitter. So when programming a 16 channel transmitter, all 16 channels will work on the receiver. There are exceptions to this, but this limitation does exist in many mult-channel receivers.

• Receivers are usually capable of several modes of operation; momentary, toggle, latched, and so on. Unfortunately, all channels in a multi-channel receiver must be identical. This leads to incompatibilities. For example, a receiver that controls an Awning and lights might need a momentary action for the awning, and a latching action for a light.

  For example, the Lippert Linc receivers provide one latching channel for a light, but 4 or 7 channels (5 or 8 channel receiver) which are momentary/reversing. It would not be possible to connect a light to these channels as you would have to keep the button depressed on the remote transmitter to keep the light on.

Expandibility: The 4 Channel receiver I am building is completely software configurable. Any transmitter code can be assigned to any channel; a channel can be configured for latching or momentary, and so on. As well, the receiver can be expanded to a 6, or 8 channel version with the addition of an adapter board. I am providing the adapter board for convenience. I will be using the expansion board in the future, but for now, I am limiting the receiver to 4 channels.

So lets get started building the receiver. Construction consists of assembling two circuit boards and programming the microcontroller. A .PDF is available that provides step-by-step instructions on building the boards. The monitor panel is optional, so the Bill-of-Materials for the panel has been separated. However, the monitor will make it easier to program the receiver as well as keeping track of the Remote System activity.

Notes:

1. Genuine Arduino NANO shown. However, I have had good luck with NANO clones.
2. 433Mhz components shown. Acquire correct items for your desired operating frequency.
3. May be replaced with Machined pin headers as shown below. Both male and female pins are required.
4. If Pullup resistors are required for the OLED display, buy 2 additional. See construction PDF for details.
5. Items shown in Yellow only required for the OLED Display Option.
6. Misc M2 and M2.5 hardware required. See construction PDF. Local purchase or buy hardware kit.