I don’t know if anyone has seen this before, but I thought it was kind of cool.
I presume you’re referring to Embedded Control Concepts @ www.embeddedcontrolconcepts.com.
I got one of these to control fermentation temperatures – http://www.homebrewersassociation.org/forum/index.php?topic=8299.msg105760#msg105760
All sorts of other applications out there that are pretty slick… I’ve heard of some crazy stuff people have been able to do with these devices!
definitely on the Christmas list, cheaper than all the parts I have brought so far to make my own
I have the BCS-460 for my electric brewing system and that thing is awesome. I use a touch screen monitor when I need to change a process, but its as automated as I would want it. Definitely recommend it.
My only thing with this is going to be switching it to gas rather than electric, but I think it could be done rather simply. My electrician knows a guy who is a genius when it comes to PLC’s
Crazy [awesome] things such as this ^!
Gas is realtively straight-forward too. For controlling gas, you’ll need a pilot light and a solenoid valve rated appropriately for gas (check out Grainger → Asco Red Hats). A word to the wise though: you’ll want to make sure you consult a licensed plumber or HVAC tech - someone well versed in gas applications. Not something you want to mess around with if you’re not 100% proficient.
Check out my system. Uses pilot system w/ solenoid valves hooked up to the control panel using Ranco ETC’s.
http://www.homebrewersassociation.org/forum/index.php?topic=9482.0