Taking DuetWifi out and about: off-network printer connection options
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At some point I might want to exhibit my DuetWifi-controlled machine away from home. Never mind the minor re-configuring hassle, lets say I don't have access to a temporary WiFi network - or its unreliable. So what are the options for connecting to it? As I'd have my phone with me, either that or a tablet might be the preferred interface device. I have a few idea's, but they may be complete nonsense:
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The first solution that springs to mind is Wi-Fi Direct - which the ESP8266MOD WiFi Module supports - plus an old Android phone/tablet. Apple apparently only support a proprietary version of Wi-Fi Direct, so their devices aren't much use. Is it an option?
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Any RaspberryPi (Zero) + wireless router options? I imagine this one starts to get a bit messy in appearance and configuration of multiple bits of hardware, but possibly also offers the greatest flexibility.
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PanelDue - nice, but not as cheap as an old Android tablet, and doesn't show off the nice web interface of DuetWifi.
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Ethernet over USB by USB cable from DuetWiFi to an Android device? - This would no doubt require modified RRF, if it's even possible.
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Any others?
As a side thought, I wonder if for future Duet board development its worth considering a plug-in style networking daughter-board, to permit either the wifi module or an Ethernet socket module to be connected to the mobo, as and when required. I know there's a new Duet Ethernet board in development, but AFAIU, its still going to be a soldered on daughter-board?
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I frequently create an access point on my android phone ( WiFi hotspot). I then connect the WiFi to that, along with laptop/tablet. It's easy and does not require anything i don't already have with me.
The DuetEthernet does use a separate, plug in module. We have not yet tested the performance on mounting the ESP on a daughter board and having that plug in as well.
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David has said that there is work on being able to define a fixed IP to the Wifi Module which AIUI would mean you could set up your laptop or whatever to connect to that IP?
Doug
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I frequently create an access point on my android phone ( WiFi hotspot). I then connect the WiFi to that, along with laptop/tablet. It's easy and does not require anything i don't already have with me.
Many thanks Tony, I'll give it a go.
