Key terms and concepts used throughout the Wonder Controlz documentation.
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Zero Field Logic | The core design principle of Wonder Controlz. No device in the room contains any game logic — all decision-making happens in Node-RED on the Main PC. Field devices only execute commands and report events. |
| Main PC | The central computer of the installation. Runs Node-RED (game logic), er-audio (if used), and any other software. All other devices in the room are controlled from the Main PC. Typically a BeeLink mini-PC running Linux. |
| CAN bus | The communication bus connecting I/O modules to the Main PC. A single 4-wire cable (24V + GND + CAN_H + CAN_L) carries both power and data. Industrial standard, used in automotive and factory automation. |
| ER-Frame | The custom communication protocol used over CAN bus. Carries commands (set PWM, move servo) and events (input changed, card detected) between the Main PC and I/O modules. |
| Node-RED | Open-source visual programming environment used for all game logic. Runs on the Main PC. Scenarios are built by connecting nodes in a flow — no traditional coding required. |
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| I/O module | A hardware device on the CAN bus that provides inputs and outputs for props and puzzles. Contains no game logic. Examples: er-01-rev-a, er-dio-01. |
| Reader module | An RFID/NFC card reader connected to er-rfid via RS-485. Placed near or inside a prop where players present cards. |
| Software product | An application that runs on the Main PC or a dedicated mini-PC. Controlled via HTTP REST API from Node-RED. Examples: er-audio, mpv-control. |
| Hardware + Software | A product consisting of a dedicated hardware controller paired with a PC application. Example: er-lights (LED/DMX controller + animation engine). |
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| 24V SELV | Safety Extra-Low Voltage (IEC 61140). The recommended operating voltage for Wonder Controlz installations. Safe to touch, no risk of electric shock. |
| PWM output | Pulse Width Modulation output on an I/O module. Controls brightness (LEDs, lamps) or speed (motors) smoothly, with values from 0 (off) to 1000 (full power). Low-side MOSFET switching. |
| Dry contact input | A digital input that detects whether a circuit is open or closed. Compatible with standard sensors: reed switches, buttons, limit switches, PIR sensors. |
| Ramp profile | A motion curve for servo outputs. Controls how a servo moves from one position to another — from instant (LINEAR) to smooth acceleration/deceleration (SMOOTHSTEP). |
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| VPN | Secure remote connection to an installation. Used for diagnostics, software updates, and scenario changes without visiting the site. The room operates fully offline — VPN is for service only. |