Controlling a Whirlpool ND50T122-403 water heater

So I have a Whirlpool ND50T122-403 water heater which is equipped with a Honeywell WV4262B1114 gas control valve. When I bought it I seem to remember there was an option for getting a device to control the heater remotely. On the unit there is a place with 2 pins to plug in a control device. Has anyone ever seen if they can control this thing by some other means than the off the shelf controller?

Thanks!