# 2021-01: Researching possibilities

Having thought about doing something like this for some time, I've occasionally looked for these control panels online. They're rarely offered for sale, and usually at a high price. Nonetheless: It seems that now is the time to finally scratch this itch!

First order of business: Is this even doable? A few words on Stack Exchange, and my faith in humanity is solidified yet again: Someone knows something about anything! Yes, this should be doable. Onwards!

I am preparing to purchase the parts I need. First and foremost the control panel itself, and also an RS-422-to-USB converter. With parts in hand, I need to see if I can get any sort of connection going, and then I will give the control panel a thorough cleaning. After that it's on to working with the data stream.