This DIY Programmable Outlet Can Control Gadgets, Monitor Temperatures, and More

Reader Jon built this programmable outlet from an Arduino that can control your devices remotely, be programmed to do whatever you want, monitor temperatures with the included thermocouples, and much more—and he’s made it open hardware so anyone can get the parts and make one too.

The “Portlet,” as Jon calls it (a portmanteau of “programmable” and “outlet”) can be programmed to do just about anything you like. Maybe you want it to automatically turn your devices on or off when you’re away from home so it looks like someone’s actually there, or maybe you want it to automatically shut off the power when your gadgets are charged. Maybe you want it to control a reflow oven and monitor the temperature within, then cut it off at a given temperature, or control your epic holiday light show. The sky’s the limit really, especially since the whole thing is powered by an Arduino.

Jon had initially launched the project on Kickstarter, but after a few years opted to make the project open to the world, and has a complete list of the parts you’ll need and the code you’ll need, along with documentation, at his web site (linked below.) If you want a fancy looking case like the one in the image above, you can purchase them from Jon, who’ll appreciate your contribution to the project. If you’d rather make your own, he even includes the files required to 3D print one.

In any event, hit the link below if you want to check out the project, or get everything you need to make one yourself.

Portlet | Mech Tech Lab

Thanks to Jon for sending in the tip!