I think that a test with a variable voltage power supply is the only way to go.
That way it is possible to find out which voltage opens the shutter, and at which (lower) voltage it closes.
I have contacted the talented technician who published on his personal site (
http://www.chemie.unibas.ch/~holder/shutter/index.html) a project for controlling a Melles Griot electronic shutter (good also for Ilex).
He promptly answered my request for help, and gently provided a few basic advices.
The project he made is based on an integrate that isn't available anymore, other way it could have worked with some minor modification.
I guess i could be more than happy with a less sophisticated device, so a simpler solution could be the way to go.
I was given the advice to use a NE555 IC, a timer that could be used with a rather simple circuit. I have found some documentation on Wikipedia:
http://www.kpsec.freeuk.com/555timer.htm#monostable
The link refers to the "monostable" operation, that should be exactly what's requested to operate a shutter.
I have no experience at all about electronics, i even forgot the very little general informations i did learn at school. So if somebody with similar needs, and with some familiarity with circuits, can provide some help, it would be great.
Even better: a simple circuit, with a reference to all needed components, that could be made by any technician with a minimum of expertise.
I have seen many electronic shutters for sale on auction sites or forums (most of them sold without controller), and a few posts asking for some simple solution, so i'm not the only one looking for some help...
have fun
CJ
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