I want to make a cabinet in which to grow orchids, and need a control system for lighting, temperature and humidity. I have an old laptop and a basic understanding of coding and control system theory. I'm handy with a soldering gun, and if I can find a circuit diagram I'm sure I'd be able to fabricate a humidistat.

 

I could physically connect a t-couple and such to a port, but I have absolutely no idea how to get the controller to look at the port so it can process the signals. Can anyone recommend a resource that explains how one goes about all of this?

 

I'm sure that it would be easier to buy a system from someone, but I'm strapped for cash and if I can learn this I have a few more projects that I could work on (like controlled barbeque smoker).

 

Thanks.

you`ll need an A to D converter to do that, other than that Yes you can do it without a problem

 

a 74244 for one way or a 74245 for 2 way buffering is a good start too.