How to automate multiple timed charges on Gen1 3.6kW Hybrid

I have a Gen 1 3.6kW Hybrid inverter and am on the Octopus Cosy tariff and would like to automate timed charges for each of the 3 cheap import periods. I read somewhere a while ago that there is only one memory slot on the Gen 1, so you can only have a single timed charge. So far, if I need to do a second one, I do it manually either using the quick buttons on the app or changing the timed charge. However this won't be practical for the 10pm - midnight session and then the following 5am - 7am.

Again a while ago I saw on the forum that people were getting around the Gen 1 shortcoming by using a Raspberry Pi and an API, I think? I'm quite techy, but have never used a Pi and APIs, so if someone could please outline what I need and how to do it I would really appreciate it.

TRBob getting around the Gen 1 shortcoming by using a Raspberry Pi and an API

Yes, that's one approach, and the way I do most of my automation. I have some python scripts you are welcome to share. Scheduling is via the standard Linux cron facility, allowing you to invoke commands at arbitrary times.

There are other approaches: wonderwatt.com is a paid service which uses the api remotely; there's an app that can run on an always-on android that can do scheduling; many use Home Assistant, which is a framework for generic home automation tasks on a bigger scale.

TRBob If you're on Cosy and you have an old Android device, phone or tablet, have a look at this option. Works well!
https://givenergymonitor.wixsite.com/tutorials/tariffs

TimHutchings Thank you both, I went with the app that Tim recommended, really pleased with it, my old Motorola smart phone has a use again!

TimHutchings Tim - is this not something you can do with the GE supplied 10* charge/discharge slots remote control. Or is this external solution more applicable for older inverters where there are not 10* slots (I have an AIO so that is my only experiance) because the timings are known (Agile is a different kettle of fish)? Asking because I am not on Agile, flux and might move to IOG, but for these 2 tariffs the times are known and I'm trying to determine the best solution to contol charge/discharge

CW You probably can with the newer inverters, but the old gen1 firmware only allows one charging slot and two discharge slots.

TimHutchings Pretty sure the second discharge slot doesn't actually work - it doesn't via givTCP anyway.

Vestas You may well be right. I've never use it! I used to do it all manually on Flux and Cosy with the quick set buttons on the app and alarms set on my phone, as eco used to not switch back on after the discharge in the portal. Then I got the Inverter app and that's worked perfectly, doing the job as it should have been done by the GE firmware.

TimHutchings does this app work with octopus agile & Outgoing fixed?

Marren2016 does this app work with octopus agile

I don't think it has anything to automate activity based on prices, if that's what you mean.

Marren2016 You need to use a separate automation system if you want to optimise using Agile.

Cloud solutions include MyEnergy Optimiser or Wonderwatt

Local automation option includes Home Assistant with either your own scripts or Predbat