Matt

We as a group are enamored of lever machines. They celebrate getting back to basics and making the user totally immersed in the process. The Cremina exemplifies this form follows function simplicity. Indeed, it is the pinnacle of manual lever machines. The machine is designed for extreme quality and simplicity and to last a lifetime. Part and parcel to this is to avoid all unnecessary complication. Every part is needed and nothing extra. It's beauty lies in the simple elegance and superb results that it is capable in the hands of a skilled owner. We enjoy using our hands to craft that special pull even using the feedback of the lever feel to involve us with the process. Adding complications is contrary to the entire concept. Of course your addition is a minor one, but it taints the water. Why not go further, how about a temperature sensor that shuts the machine down when the group gets too hot? While we are at it, why have that annoying hand lever when an electric pump can do the job so much easier without our having to pay attention. We can even design a computer control system for that pump that can be programmed with every aspect of the pressure profile over time. Are these things bad? No, but they are not what a manual lever is about. Soon after you turn the machine on, it is necessary to bleed false pressure from it (unless fitted with the vacuum breaker cap). In but a few minutes after that required involvement the machine will be at pressure. The user involvement is what these machines are about.

In the end, it is your machine to do with what you want. It is a very minor matter to wire in such a buzzer-so enjoy.

HB wrote:Good tip, thanks.

Wow...never thought of an around the neck timer...love that...I've actually set my little digital one down and FORGOT where it was till it started beeping!

bobcraige wrote: Adding complications is contrary to the entire concept. Of course your addition is a minor one, but it taints the water. Why not go further, how about a temperature sensor that shuts the machine down when the group gets too hot? While we are at it, why have that annoying hand lever when an electric pump can do the job so much easier without our having to pay attention. We can even design a computer control system for that pump that can be programmed with every aspect of the pressure profile over time. Are these things bad? No, but they are not what a manual lever is about.

Everyone comes from a different background and paradigm. I see adding a convenience to a fine piece of machinery a refinement and improvement.
In this case it is a reminder to come back to 'Baby' and tend to business. If the electronic device is installed with finesse and expertise it is not an unnecessary complication but another reason to enjoy your 'toy' all the more.
There are those on this site who have done a very professional job at PIDing a Cremina, added a pressure gauge to the older models, rebuilt units that were in ill-repair. This is what innovative and proactive people do.
If Matt wants to put a beeper or alarm device to simplify and upgrade his Cremina... Then I want to see exactly how he does it, where he got his equipment from and then I want to know how much he enjoys the convenience afterward! As he endeavors to explore, perhaps question others and do this project I would hope that he can count on others to support and cheer him on.