FreeM - Infrared Controller

FreeM is a wireless BlinkMs controller and power supply for completely standalone deployment, programming and control of BlinkM smart LEDs. It's like an invisible wire linking a LinkM or Arduino to BlinkMs.

When used with the CtrlM transmitter it creates an invisible, low-power method to control BlinkMs (or any I2C device) up to 45 feet (14m) away (and can be easily modified for much greater range).

It's designed to work transparently with the rest of the BlinkM product line. Plug a CtrlM into a LinkM, point it at a FreeM, fire up the BlinkM Multitrack sequencer, and start programming it from afar.

It's perfect for wearables, architectural lighting, stage sets, RC car lights, or anywhere else that's difficult to get to.

Plus, as a bonus, it works with any TV remote that supports the SICS (Sony remote control) protocol, which includes nearly every universal remote made. Using basic TV remote keys it'll turn BlinkMs off and on, change their brightness and hue, and run user-definable scripts.

  • Wireless I2C controller for all BlinkM products up to 45 feet (14m) away.
  • Supports all BlinkM I2C commands.
  • When used with CtrlM, FreeM acts as one end of “virtual wire” connecting a LinkM USB adapter or Arduino to BlinkMs mounted in locations where data cabling is impossible or undesirable.
  • Every FreeM can control an arbitrary number of BlinkM devices.
  • One CtrlM can control any number of FreeMs.
  • Built in power supply with 9V battery connector
  • Reconfigurable IR network address in CtrlM mode.
  • Firmware upgradable.
  • Supports 12-bit SICS (Sony) TV remote protocol with built-in behaviors including moodlight, beacon, hue select, flashlight, script play.

FreeM - Infrared Controller Product Help and Resources

Core Skill: Programming

If a board needs code or communicates somehow, you're going to need to know how to program or interface with it. The programming skill is all about communication and code.

3 Programming

Skill Level: Competent - The toolchain for programming is a bit more complex and will examples may not be explicitly provided for you. You will be required to have a fundamental knowledge of programming and be required to provide your own code. You may need to modify existing libraries or code to work with your specific hardware. Sensor and hardware interfaces will be SPI or I2C.
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Core Skill: Electrical Prototyping

If it requires power, you need to know how much, what all the pins do, and how to hook it up. You may need to reference datasheets, schematics, and know the ins and outs of electronics.

1 Electrical Prototyping

Skill Level: Noob - You don't need to reference a datasheet, but you will need to know basic power requirements.
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Comments

Looking for answers to technical questions?

We welcome your comments and suggestions below. However, if you are looking for solutions to technical questions please see our Technical Assistance page.

  • ID-Bart / about 12 years ago / 1

    I dont have Arduino nor any knowledge about it, I just need to be able to turn a LED on a battery on/off with a remote.

    Does the FreeM and BlinkM combo work right out of the box with a remote?

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