Automaton 2
Automaton is a device for automating anything that can be operated by a keyboard. It supports creating multiple workflows and has buttons to easily run the workflows. Whether you are setting up a computer, running commands, or setting up applications, Automaton makes it as easy as pressing a button.
Automaton comes with a macOS app to easily create and edit workflows. Workflows can then be sent to Automaton for running automations. It includes some example workflows to get you started.
Example Workflows
- Wipe and reinstall a Mac
- Open Terminal and run a command
- Automatically log in to macOS
Hardware
- 3 programmable buttons to run assigned workflows
- 5 programmable status LEDs
- USB-C
Example Uses
Update a new Mac to latest macOS version: When deploying Macs, the installed macOS version may not be the latest, resulting in multiple issues when deploying. By using Automaton, the person receiving the new Mac will have the latest, most secure version of macOS, all prepared for enrollment and use.
Wipe and reinstall macOS: When repurposing Macs, wiping and reinstalling macOS can be a time consuming process. Automaton can automate this process with a simple button press.
Post install actions: Sometimes a large number of Macs need a final manual configuration before deploying. Using Automaton, this can be as simple as pressing a button. Automaton can log in to the Mac, run a command, open an app, or anything else that can be done with a keyboard.
Kick off complex operations: Use Automaton to easily kick off a long Terminal command. A simple button press can open Terminal, run a long command that can download resources, and then kick off a process. Let Automaton do the typing for you.
Software
The macOS app lets you create multiple workflows consisting of steps describing the keyboard actions to be done.
Key Press: Press and hold a single key or a key combination, including modifier keys like Shift or Control. For example, Command-R to boot into recovery or Command-Space to open Spotlight.
Type: Type a sentence or command exactly as if you were typing it from the keyboard. For example: curl -O https://twocanoes.com/file.dmg && hdiutil mount file.dmg would download a disk image and mount it.
LED: Have any of the 5 LEDs on Automaton turn on/off or flash to give feedback to the person running the workflow to know what steps are currently running.
Workflows
- Create multiple workflows
- Assign workflows to Automaton buttons
- Run selected workflow when Automaton button is pressed
- Export workflows to a file for sharing
Requirements
macOS 12 (Monterey) or macOS 13 (Ventura). This is only required for the mac creating and saving the workflows. The automaton can be plugged in and used by any device that supports a USB keyboard.