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- Joined
- Jan 1970
I’ve been wrestling with the devil to get an internet-controlled key safe from what seems like the sole provider. No names, please—the battle over getting exactly what I paid for back in October 2009 is still going on…
It hit me that these devices aren’t too difficult to make and since I’m a sub who enjoys a challenge, I’ve decided to build my own.
So here’s the question I need answers to…
- Would you be interested in buying one (in principle)?
- What features would you require?
- What features would you prefer?
I’ve done some research already so this isn’t just pie-in-the-sky thinking. Cost: I’ve found a safe and an SBC (Single Board Computer) that look suitable. The price should be around 250 to 300 GBP. Features:
- Fully self-contained - no third-party website to interfere, crash, or drop support
- Independent LAN-based unit with its own Web server for controlling the safe
- Allows you to upload pictures etc as proof of tasks, which your keyholder can review at their convenience.
- Safe control would be password protected so the keyholder has exclusive rights to certain features; the chastee sees only status (and/or time remaining until unlock - configurable by keyholder).
- Optional physical key override is a user-changeable feature - requires a screwdriver and some basic DIY skills
- Does NOT need constant power but will not unlock if off (obviously)
- Since it’s computer-based, features aren’t ‘written in stone’ so upgrades can be added as they become available from my site. Obviously, this is still in the thinking/design phase so don’t ask to order one yet, but I think it’s a go…
Regarding unlocking and features: Because of the lock design and power/heating factors, there will be two operational modes. A remote ‘unlock now’ button - which unlocks the safe (and lights an LED) for about 5-15 seconds - could be setable by keyholder only A ‘Can I unlock now?’ button that checks defined times and unlocks if allowed. Email options will report attempts when not allowed, of course - all user-settable. ‘911’ (or ‘999’ for the British) override available; but if this is a concern, I’d suggest keeping the key unlock feature enabled.
Possible features under consideration…
- eMail control - although there’s a security issue here: the sub could read the emails and get the code! - lol
- Display/Touch Screen option (but this would push the price up significantly! +200 I think).
So tell me what you think… I’m going to build one anyway, but should I make just for myself or design something to sell to others as well?