Hi, my IP relay project is almost completed, it's in a rack enclosure, has 6 resettable fused IEC outlets leaving 2 relays for "something else" just need to bring the relay leds to the front panel. But it is otherwise working and does the job.
The NE64 board I purchased is preprogrammed. I was looking into making my own firmware for it but the limitations you have found and I have been advised of made me reconsider. I'm not experienced in this field and this would have been the first chip I wrote code for. That in mind I'm looking to "upgrade" what I have to the newer version chip once I get my head round it.
I want for more functions then is currently available out of the box on the NE64 so I will invest my time in newer technology. The developer of the board I have has given me a PHP script to talk to the NE64 via SNMP traps which alow relay switching and reading of the unused 8 inputs. This would mean I can add the functionality I desire with programming using skills I already have, but then it is not an embedded device as such since the additional features rely on an external webserver.
I'm more interested in environmental controls at the moment, but the delayed startup idea for inductive loads is a good idea. I too want to bounce my modem/router if it can't ping the outside world. max number of restarts in case the router isn't at fault I don't want it restarting all the time until I can attend it.
I wanted a web programmable interface so the user can set events, if input X > 1.2 switch relay X off etc. I want to add buttons on the front, if held in for a say 3 secs cycle the applicable relay off then on to restart connected load, if a momentary press toggle the relay state.
I don't intend on selling this as a product, It's just something to work on to combine my IT skills with my electrical skills to gain a better understanding of electronics, specifically embedded devices.
Good luck with your implementation!