• Terminal
    Terminal
    An electrical connector acting as reusable interface to a conductor and creating a point where external circuits can be connected.
  • Ground
    A common return path for electric current. Commonly known as ground.
  • Net Portal
    A net identifier used to create connectivity to other Net Portal with the same designator. #portal
  • Power Net Portal
    Power net portal is a special schematic object used to define a power or ground net. Power ports allow you to conveniently indicate a power net at any location in the design. Power nets of the same designator automatically connect throughout your design #portal #power
  • Generic Resistor
    A generic fixed resistor for rapid developing circuit topology. Save precious design time by seamlessly add more information to this part (value, footprint, etc.) as it becomes available. Standard resistor values: 1.0Ω 10Ω 100Ω 1.0kΩ 10kΩ 100kΩ 1.0MΩ 1.1Ω 11Ω 110Ω 1.1kΩ 11kΩ 110kΩ 1.1MΩ 1.2Ω 12Ω 120Ω 1.2kΩ 12kΩ 120kΩ 1.2MΩ 1.3Ω 13Ω 130Ω 1.3kΩ 13kΩ 130kΩ 1.3MΩ 1.5Ω 15Ω 150Ω 1.5kΩ 15kΩ 150kΩ 1.5MΩ 1.6Ω 16Ω 160Ω 1.6kΩ 16kΩ 160kΩ 1.6MΩ 1.8Ω 18Ω 180Ω 1.8KΩ 18kΩ 180kΩ 1.8MΩ 2.0Ω 20Ω 200Ω 2.0kΩ 20kΩ 200kΩ 2.0MΩ 2.2Ω 22Ω 220Ω 2.2kΩ 22kΩ 220kΩ 2.2MΩ 2.4Ω 24Ω 240Ω 2.4kΩ 24kΩ 240kΩ 2.4MΩ 2.7Ω 27Ω 270Ω 2.7kΩ 27kΩ 270kΩ 2.7MΩ 3.0Ω 30Ω 300Ω 3.0KΩ 30KΩ 300KΩ 3.0MΩ 3.3Ω 33Ω 330Ω 3.3kΩ 33kΩ 330kΩ 3.3MΩ 3.6Ω 36Ω 360Ω 3.6kΩ 36kΩ 360kΩ 3.6MΩ 3.9Ω 39Ω 390Ω 3.9kΩ 39kΩ 390kΩ 3.9MΩ 4.3Ω 43Ω 430Ω 4.3kΩ 43KΩ 430KΩ 4.3MΩ 4.7Ω 47Ω 470Ω 4.7kΩ 47kΩ 470kΩ 4.7MΩ 5.1Ω 51Ω 510Ω 5.1kΩ 51kΩ 510kΩ 5.1MΩ 5.6Ω 56Ω 560Ω 5.6kΩ 56kΩ 560kΩ 5.6MΩ 6.2Ω 62Ω 620Ω 6.2kΩ 62KΩ 620KΩ 6.2MΩ 6.8Ω 68Ω 680Ω 6.8kΩ 68kΩ 680kΩ 6.8MΩ 7.5Ω 75Ω 750Ω 7.5kΩ 75kΩ 750kΩ 7.5MΩ 8.2Ω 82Ω 820Ω 8.2kΩ 82kΩ 820kΩ 8.2MΩ 9.1Ω 91Ω 910Ω 9.1kΩ 91kΩ 910kΩ 9.1MΩ #generics #CommonPartsLibrary
  • Generic Capacitor
    A generic fixed capacitor for rapid developing circuit topology. Save precious design time by seamlessly add more information to this part (value, footprint, etc.) as it becomes available. Standard capacitor values: 1.0pF 10pF 100pF 1000pF 0.01uF 0.1uF 1.0uF 10uF 100uF 1000uF 10,000uF 1.1pF 11pF 110pF 1100pF 1.2pF 12pF 120pF 1200pF 1.3pF 13pF 130pF 1300pF 1.5pF 15pF 150pF 1500pF 0.015uF 0.15uF 1.5uF 15uF 150uF 1500uF 1.6pF 16pF 160pF 1600pF 1.8pF 18pF 180pF 1800pF 2.0pF 20pF 200pF 2000pF 2.2pF 22pF 20pF 2200pF 0.022uF 0.22uF 2.2uF 22uF 220uF 2200uF 2.4pF 24pF 240pF 2400pF 2.7pF 27pF 270pF 2700pF 3.0pF 30pF 300pF 3000pF 3.3pF 33pF 330pF 3300pF 0.033uF 0.33uF 3.3uF 33uF 330uF 3300uF 3.6pF 36pF 360pF 3600pF 3.9pF 39pF 390pF 3900pF 4.3pF 43pF 430pF 4300pF 4.7pF 47pF 470pF 4700pF 0.047uF 0.47uF 4.7uF 47uF 470uF 4700uF 5.1pF 51pF 510pF 5100pF 5.6pF 56pF 560pF 5600pF 6.2pF 62pF 620pF 6200pF 6.8pF 68pF 680pF 6800pF 0.068uF 0.68uF 6.8uF 68uF 680uF 6800uF 7.5pF 75pF 750pF 7500pF 8.2pF 82pF 820pF 8200pF 9.1pF 91pF 910pF 9100pF #generics #CommonPartsLibrary
  • Generic Inductor
    A generic fixed inductor for rapid developing circuit topology. *You can now change the footprint and 3D model at the top level anytime you want. This is the power of #generics
  • 875105359001
    10uF Capacitor Aluminum Polymer 20% 16V SMD 5x5.3mm #forLedBlink #commonpartslibrary #capacitor #aluminumpolymer #radialcan
  • CTL1206FYW1T
    Yellow 595nm LED Indication - Discrete 1.7V 1206 (3216 Metric) #forLedBlink
  • 1070TR
    Battery Holder (Open) Coin, 20.0mm 1 Cell SMD (SMT) Tab bate or batt #forLedBlink
list all RV1 pins in a table format. For each pin provide its pin number, pin na...

@copilot list all RV1 pins in a table format. For each pin provide its pin number, pin name and function.
4mo
Here's a table describing the pins of RV1: 3224W-1-104E:

Table


Pin NumberPin NameFunction
1P1Connects to one end of the resistor
2P2Connects to the wiper (adjustable tap)
3P3Connects to the other end of the resistor
Please let me know if you need any further details!
4mo
are there any issues in this project?

@copilot are there any issues in this project?
4mo
I'll review the provided schematic and connections to check if there are any issues or potential improvements.
General Observations

  1. Power Supply and Grounding:

    • Ensure that all components needing a specific voltage (e.g., 5VDC) are getting the correct voltage.
    • Check all ground connections for consistency.
  2. Potential Signal Paths and Interfaces:

    • Verify that control signals are connected logically and match the intended function.
Detailed Review

  1. Connections to Relays, Transistors, and TRIAC:

    • Check the connections related to the control circuitry and the load-switching components (TRIAC, transistors, and relay).
  2. Microcontroller (U2 - ATTINY13V-10SSU):

    • Ensure proper power supply to VCC and connection to GND.
    • Ensure the RESET pin (RESET/PB5) is properly handled.
    • Validate that I/O pins (e.g., PB0, PB1, PB2, PB3, PB4) are connected correctly.
Specific Checks:

  1. Power Supply (PS1 - IRM-10-5):

    • Verify correct AC connections:

      • Connect J1:PIN1 to PS1:AC/L.
      • Connect J1:PIN3 to PS1:AC/N.
    • Validate DC output connections:

      • Connect PS1:+Vo to Net 16.
      • Connect PS1:-Vo to Net 13.
  2. Switch (SW1 - MRX108-A):

    • Make sure all intended switch connections (e.g., SW1:A to R6:1) are logically consistent to the intended control input and output paths.
  3. R2 (4.7k resistor):

    • Verify connection:

      • Connect R2:P1 to RV1:P3.
      • Connect R2:P2 to Q1:A2 and J2:P2.
  4. TRIAC (Q1 - BTA16-600BW):

    • Validate connections:

      • Connect Q1:G to D1:A ($Net 1$).
      • Connect Q1:A1 to $Net 8$.
      • Connect Q1:A2 to $Net 4$.
  5. Diodes:

    • Ensure D1, D2 are correctly biased and connected:

      • Connect D1:K to $Net 7$.
      • Connect D1:A to Q1:G.
      • Connect D2:A to Q2:C and U1:~ ($Net 10$).
      • Connect D2:K to $Net 16$.
Component-Specific Checks:

  • C1 and C2:

    • Ensure capacitors are correctly oriented and connected to the proper nodes.
    • Typically, one pin to ground and another to the desired line to decouple noise.
Potential Issues:

  1. Net Components Exclusivity:

    • Check if any net components excluded from BOM or PCB might affect the design's functionality.
  2. Overlapping Connections:

    • Ensure no unintended connections between components and nets, which could result in shorts or circuit misbehavior.
Assumptions:
I'm assuming no specific issues regarding component placement or routing constraints beyond this check.
Next Steps:
To identify more detailed issues, we'd typically simulate the design or perform a thorough peer review considering real-world constraints and specific requirements of the dimmer circuit. Would you like a specific part of the circuit to be checked in more detail?
4mo
4
create a detailed step by step plan table for this project to verify its functio...

@copilot create a detailed step by step plan table for this project to verify its functionality.
4mo
To verify the functionality of your Triac Dimmer project, let's create a comprehensive step-by-step plan. I'll break down the verification process into several phases including the initial setup, electrical testing, and functionality testing. Below is the detailed plan in a tabular format:

Table


StepDescriptionMethods/TestsExpected Result
1Initial Setup
1.1Verify PCB ManufacturingCheck physical board against design filesPCB matches the design
1.2Component PlacementPlace all components as per the designatorAll components correctly placed
1.3SolderingSolder the components on the PCBGood solder joints without bridging
2Visual Inspection
2.1Inspect Solder JointsUse magnifying glass or microscopeNo cold joints or bridges
2.2Check Component OrientationVerify polarity and orientation of componentsAll components correctly oriented
3Power Supply Verification
3.1Verify Power Supply ConnectionsCheck continuity with multimeterProper connections, no shorts
3.2Apply Power to CircuitConnect power supply to PS1Circuit powers up correctly
3.3Measure Output VoltageUse a multimeter to measure $+V_o$ and $-V_o$ from PS1$+5V$ DC output from PS1, stable
4Preliminary Electrical Tests
4.1Check Main Supply ConnectionsVerify connections to LINE, NEUTRAL, and EARTHProper connections, no shorts
4.2Verify DC Voltage RailsMeasure DC voltage at critical points (e.g., $U_2:V_{CC}$, $PS1:+V_o$)Correct DC voltage ($5V$ or as expected)
4.3Test ContinuityCheck connections for continuity and absence of shortsProper continuity, no shorts
5Component Testing
5.1Verify Triac OperationCheck $Q_1$ for gate triggering$Q_1$ triggering properly
5.2Test Transistor $Q_2$Verify $Q_2$ switching based on input$Q_2$ switching as expected
5.3Check Resistor ValuesMeasure the resistance values ($R_1$, $R_2$, etc.) with a multimeterResistors within tolerance
6Functional Testing
6.1Test Dimmer FunctionalityRotate $SW1$ knob and observe voltage changesSmooth and variable output voltage
6.2Verify Triac Firing Angle ControlAdjust $RV1$ and measure TRIAC firing angleFiring angle changes as per $RV1$ setting
6.3Test Microcontroller $U_2$Ensure $U_2$ is powered and functioning$U_2$ outputs correct control signals
6.4Check Light Bulb DimmingConnect a light bulb and observe dimmingLight dims smoothly with control
7Final Verification
7.1Full System TestRun the complete system and test all functionalityAll parts work together; dimming smooth and controlled
7.2Long-Term StabilityRun the system over an extended periodEnsure no overheating, stable performance
7.3Environmental TestingTest under different voltage suppliesFunctions correctly under varied conditions
Make sure to follow the steps sequentially and document any issues you encounter for troubleshooting. Correct any discrepancies before moving on to the next step to ensure the system functions as expected.
4mo
5
how do I use Flux?

@copilot how do I use Flux?
4mo
I'm happy to help! To use Flux, follow these steps:

  1. Creating an Account:

    • Visit Flux Signup and sign up using your username, email, and password. You can also sign up using your Google account.
  2. Designing Schematics:

    • Start by dragging components from the library onto the canvas. You can find the library on the left-hand side of the window.
    • Connect components by clicking on the terminals of the components and dragging wires to form connections.
  3. Positioning and Routing:

    • Position and route components efficiently to minimize trace lengths and avoid congestion. You can use the "Drag" tool to rearrange components and traces.
  4. Running Simulations:

    • Learn how simulation models run inside Flux by following the @tutorials.
  5. Getting Help:

    • If you run into any issues or have specific questions, the best place for support is the Flux Slack community where you can interact with the Flux team and other users.
    • Additionally, you can explore the Flux YouTube channel for video tutorials and recorded events that can provide more assistance.
  6. Taking Action on Schematics:

    • When Copilot suggests specific connections on your schematic, you can automate these connections by clicking on the "Take Action" button.
Feel free to ask if you need more detailed instructions on any specific feature or step!
4mo
6
C1
Capacitance
100n F
D1
J2
EARTH
R2
Resistance
4.7k Ω
C2
Capacitance
100n F
U3
Not Recommended for New Designs
RV1
Resistance
100k Ω
R1
Resistance
100 Ω
F1

Triac Dimmer

Triac Dimmer
Description

Created
February 23rd 2024
Last updated by jakehertz
4 months ago
1 Contributor(s)
jakehertz

Controls

Properties

Availability & Pricing

DistributorQty 1
Arrow$34.27–$36.13
Digi-Key$37.77–$41.63
LCSC$25.32–$26.89
Mouser$41.19–$41.44
Verical$13.19–$26.82

Assets

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Simulation

µs

Simulation Speed

Can you help me find a timer IC that can drive a 5VDC Relay in one-shot mode. Th...
@copilot Can you help me find a timer IC that can drive a 5VDC Relay in one-shot mode. The driving duration needs to be a maximum of 60 minutes
8mo
For driving a 5VDC relay in one-shot mode with a maximum duration of 60 minutes, you can use the NE555 timer IC in a monostable configuration. The NE555 is a versatile and widely used IC capable of producing accurate time delays or oscillation. In the monostable mode, the duration of the output pulse is determined by the values of an external resistor (R) and capacitor (C).
The general formula for calculating the pulse duration in a monostable setup is:
T=1.1×R×CT = 1.1 \times R \times C
where:

  • (T) is the time period in seconds,
  • (R) is the resistance in ohms,
  • (C) is the capacitance in farads.
For a duration of 60 minutes (3600 seconds), you will need to adjust the formula to solve for (R) and (C).
Assuming a reasonable capacitor size for practicality, let's say (C = 1000 \mu F) (or (0.001 F)). Plugging this into the formula, we solve for (R) to get:
3600=1.1×R×0.0013600 = 1.1 \times R \times 0.001
Rearranging the formula gives:
R=36001.1×0.0013.27MΩR = \frac{3600}{1.1 \times 0.001} \approx 3.27 M\Omega
However, there's a practical limitation to consider. Standard NE555 timer ICs might not be suitable for such long durations due to leakage currents and the stability of the components over time. Operating successfully near the upper limits of this configuration for long periods like 60 minutes can be challenging and may require careful selection of high-quality, stable components. Additionally, environmental factors such as temperature can affect the timing accuracy.
An alternative approach is to use a microcontroller with a built-in timer/counter module, such as Arduino or a similar platform. This approach provides greater flexibility and accuracy for long-duration timing requirements. A simple program can be written to activate a relay for up to 60 minutes, and adjustments can be easily made through software for precision and versatility.
If sticking with the NE555 is still preferred, consider testing and calibrating the circuit carefully to ensure reliable operation over the desired duration. Moreover, be aware that achieving precise timing over such a long period with an analog timer like the NE555 may require fine-tuning and possibly periodic recalibration.
8mo
I'm told the Ne555 is not a good choice for long time because of the leakages of the capacitor will ultimately cause inaccurate timing
8mo
You're correct. For long durations such as 60 minutes, the NE555 timer may not be the best choice due to leakage currents in the capacitor, which can lead to inaccurate timing. This issue is compounded in applications requiring precise timing over extended periods.
A more suitable approach for achieving a one-shot timer with a duration of up to 60 minutes would be to use a microcontroller with an internal timer/counter function. Many microcontrollers, even the most basic ones like the Arduino series (ATmega328P-based ones, for example), can easily handle timing tasks with high accuracy. This method also has the advantage of being highly customizable through software, allowing for adjustments in timing without any changes to the hardware.
Here's a basic outline of what you would need to do:

  1. Choose a Microcontroller: Select a microcontroller that fits your power, size, and cost requirements. Arduino Uno is a great and accessible choice for prototyping.
  2. Setup the Circuit:

    • Relay Module: Connect a relay module that is compatible with the voltage and current levels of your MCU's I/O pins. Since you're driving a 5V relay, ensure the relay module can be driven with the microcontroller's output (usually 5V for many common microcontrollers).
    • Input Trigger: Design a simple circuit or system to signal the microcontroller to start the timer. This could be a button press or another type of sensor input.
  3. Develop the Software:

    • Write a program for the microcontroller that waits for an input signal and then activates the relay.
    • Use the internal timer/counter of the microcontroller to count up to 60 minutes. Upon reaching this count, turn off the relay.
    • Incorporate a calibration mechanism if needed, like a way to adjust the count to match real-time more accurately.
  4. Deploy:

    • Upload the program to the microcontroller.
    • Test the system with actual loads to ensure that the timing meets the requirements.
This solution offers significant flexibility. You can easily adjust the duration, add complexity like user input for setting the time, or include feedback mechanisms through the software.
For those unfamiliar with programming or microcontrollers, various online communities and resources are available to help get started. Platforms like Arduino come with extensive documentation and community support, making them accessible even for beginners in electronics and programming.
8mo
can you recommend me a relay that is controlled by 5V and supports 120VAC up to ...
@copilot can you recommend me a relay that is controlled by 5V and supports 120VAC up to 15A
8mo
For a project requiring a relay controlled by a 5V signal that supports switching of 120VAC up to 15A, you should consider using a relay with a low coil voltage and a sufficient contact rating for your AC requirements. Keep in mind, the relay must also be built to handle the type of load you're controlling, as inductive and capacitive loads can demand more from the relay than purely resistive loads.
Given these requirements, I recommend considering the Songle SRD-05VDC-SL-C relay. Here's why it might be a good fit for your needs:

  • Coil Voltage: It has a coil voltage of 5V, making it compatible with microcontrollers and other logic-level control signals.
  • Contact Rating: The relay can handle up to 10A at 250VAC which is below your requirement. Therefore, a more suitable recommendation would be the Omron G5LE-14-DC5 or a similar variant that can handle up to 15A at 120VAC.
  • Coil Current: Typically around 70-100 mA, which is within the driving capability of many microcontroller GPIO pins with the use of a proper transistor or MOSFET as a switch.
  • Package: Available in a PCB mount package, making it suitable for soldering onto a printed circuit board.
For your specific requirement of up to 15A at 120VAC, look for Omron G5LE-14-DC5:

  • Coil Voltage: 5VDC, which is suitable for TTL logic-level control.
  • Contact Rating: Capable of switching up to 15A at 250VAC, covering your 120VAC up to 15A requirement.
  • Form: 1 form A (SPST-NO) for straightforward NO (Normally Open) operations.
Please ensure that the relay you choose is compatible with your application's load characteristics. If the controlled device has a motor, transformer, or any inductive load, ensure the relay can handle the inrush currents that these loads can produce. Also, consider using a flyback diode across the coil to protect your control circuitry from voltage spikes when the coil is de-energized.
8mo
can you recommend specific components for each of the options you just gave?
@copilot can you recommend specific components for each of the options you just gave?
8mo
Given the description of your triac dimmer project and assuming the typical requirements for such a design, I'll recommend specific components based on the provided designators, and make assumptions about your needs where information is not provided. Keep in mind you should verify these recommendations against your specific requirements, such as voltage ratings, power dissipation, and physical size constraints.
Recommended Components Capacitors (C1 and C2)

  • Description: Two capacitors are used, both with a capacitance value of 100nF.
  • Recommendation: Murata GRM188R71H104KA93D

    • Reason: Widely used, reliable, and suitable for general-purpose decoupling/filtering. It's SMD_0603_1608Metric, matching the given package requirement.
Diode (D1)

  • Description: A diac used in the triggering circuit of the triac.
  • Recommendation: STMicroelectronics DB3

    • Reason: Directly specified, used for triggering triacs due to its bidirectional breakdown characteristic.
Resistor (R1)

  • Description: With a resistance of 100 Ohms.
  • Recommendation: Yageo RC0402JR-07100RL

    • Reason: SMD_0402 size to match common real-estate constraints, and 100Ω resistance matches requirements; assuming a standard tolerance and power rating are acceptable.
Resistor (R2)

  • Description: With a resistance of 4.7k Ohms.
  • Recommendation: Vishay CRCW04024K70FKED

    • Reason: Already specified, and the SMD_0402_1005Metric package is appropriate for dense layouts.
Trimmer Potentiometer (RV1)

  • Description: Used for adjusting the phase angle of the triac gate trigger.
  • Recommendation: Bourns 3224W-1-104E

    • Reason: Directly specified, with 100k resistance which is typical for dimmer control to provide a wide range of adjustment.
Triac (Q1)

  • Description: The main switching component.
  • Recommendation: STMicroelectronics BTA16-600BW

    • Reason: Directly specified, suitable for general-purpose AC switching and capable of handling significant current up to 16A.
Fuse (F1)

  • Description: Provides overcurrent protection.
  • Recommendation: Littelfuse 05200101Z

    • Reason: Directly specified, with a 10A current rating which should be suitable for most light to medium load dimmer applications.
Connectors

  • J1 Description: Likely used for power input/output connections.

    • Recommendation: Phoenix Contact 1767017

      • Reason: 3-position, 5.0mm pitch terminal block, reliable for AC mains connections.
  • J2 Description: Function unspecified, possibly for control or auxiliary power.

    • Recommendation: JST PHR-2

      • Reason: Common and reliable 2-pin connector, assuming low current and signal level connection.
General Advice

  • Always verify the electrical specifications of these recommendations against your circuit requirements, including voltage and current ratings.
  • Consider the physical size and mounting style (e.g., through-hole vs. surface mount) based on your PCB design and enclosure constraints.
  • Ensure compatibility between components, especially connectors, and their counterparts.
These recommendations are based on a combination of the specifications you provided, standard practices, and common availability. If there are specific constraints or requirements not mentioned (e.g., operating temperature range, certification requirements), you might need to adjust these recommendations accordingly.
8mo
I am creating a heater circuit that takes 120VAC as an input, and uses a triac/d...
@copilot I am creating a heater circuit that takes 120VAC as an input, and uses a triac/diac circuit with a potentiometer as a control for the heater output power. I want to add the function of having the heater run on a timer. For example, I want to make the heater run for 30 minutes and the shut off. The whole system only uses AC power, not DC. How would implement this timing circuit?
8mo
To integrate a timer function into your existing triac/diac based heater circuit running on 120VAC and controlled via a potentiometer (RV1), there are several AC timing solutions available. Given the constraint of only using AC power and the absence of DC elements in your circuit, the implementation will focus on components and methods that operate directly with AC signals.
Option 1: Electromechanical Timer
One traditional approach is to use an electromechanical timer. These are often used in industrial controls and can directly switch AC loads.

  • Implementation: You could insert an electromechanical timer in series with the LINE net (before or after F1) or integrate it into the control circuit in a way that disables the gate drive to the triac (Q1) after the preset time. Electromechanical timers typically have their own knob or dial to set the duration, so this solution might offer a separate timing control in addition to the power control via the potentiometer.
Option 2: Digital/Programmable Timer Switch
Another approach would involve using a digital or programmable timer switch. These devices are commonly available for household and industrial applications, meant to control lighting or heating systems based on time settings.

  • Implementation: Like the electromechanical timer, you could connect a digital timer in series with your circuit's input or integrate it to control the gate of the triac. Note that while these devices typically operate with an internal microcontroller, they are designed to switch AC loads and don't require a separate DC power supply.
Option 3: AC Timing Relay
AC timing relays are designed to provide time-delayed switching based on AC signals. They come in various configurations such as ON-delay, OFF-delay, and cyclical timers.

  • Implementation: An ON-delay timer could be used to turn off the triac after a delay. This timer would be connected in such a way that upon activation, it initiates the countdown and eventually interrupts the triac gate signal or the entire circuit's power line.
General Connection Guidelines:

  • Electromechanical/Digital Timer Integration:

    • Connect the timer in series with the LINE net: Connect LINE:(P1) to Timer:(In), and Connect Timer:(Out) to F1:(P2) or J1:(PIN1).
  • AC Timing Relay Integration:

    • For gate control interruption: Connect the timer output to control the triac's gate (Q1:G) indirectly. Ensure the timer in its rest state allows normal operation and upon timing out, it disconnects or connects a path to prevent gate activation.
    • For series interruption: Similar to the electromechanical/digital timer, integrate the timing relay in series with the mains input.
Notes:

  • Safety: Ensure that all components are rated appropriately for handling 120VAC and the expected currents. Isolation precautions must be taken seriously, especially in designs dealing directly with AC mains.
  • Compatibility: Verify the chosen timer's control voltage and mechanism to ensure compatibility with your triac gate control or the ability to break the circuit's power line.
These approaches do not introduce a DC component into your design and leverage commonly available components for AC timing control. Depending on your specific requirements for integration, size, cost, and control interface, one of these options should provide a reliable solution to adding a timing function to your triac-based heater circuit.
8mo
For implementing a timing function in an AC-powered triac heater control circuit, here are specific component recommendations for each of the options mentioned. These components are examples and could be replaced by equivalents depending on availability or specific requirements.
Option 1: Electromechanical Timer

  • Component Recommendation: Intermatic T101 Mechanical Timer

    • Features: This timer is designed for 24-hour operation with a maximum of 12 ON/OFF operations per day. It's suitable for direct AC load control, can handle up to 40 amps, and is straightforward to use with a manual dial for time setting.
    • Implementation Guide: Integrate this timer in series with your circuit's input. If your control circuit is separate, place the timer in such a position that it controls the main power supply to the whole system.
Option 2: Digital/Programmable Timer Switch

  • Component Recommendation: Leviton VPT24-1PZ Vizia 24-hour Programmable Indoor Timer

    • Features: This is a digital programmable timer switch capable of handling AC loads directly. It offers daily and weekly programs, with up to 50 ON/OFF events per day. It operates with AC power and does not require a neutral wire for installation.
    • Implementation Guide: Similar to the electromechanical timer, this digital timer would be wired in series with the main power supply to the heater circuit. It provides more flexibility for programming specific on and off times.
Option 3: AC Timing Relay

  • Component Recommendation: Schneider Electric RE17RAMU On-Delay Timing Relay

    • Features: This timing relay offers an adjustable time delay from 0.1 seconds to 100 hours, making it very versatile. It operates with a wide range of AC control voltages and can directly control AC loads or the gate control circuit of your triac.
    • Implementation Guide: For integrating this relay for gate control interruption:

      • Connect the timing relay output in a way that allows gate activation only when the relay is not in the timing phase. This may involve using the relay to complete the circuit to the gate under normal operation conditions and breaking the circuit when the timer is active.
Connection Examples:

  • For Electromechanical/Digital Timer:

    • Connect LINE:(P1) to Timer:(In), and Connect Timer:(Out) to F1:(P2) or J1:(PIN1). The timer here acts as a gatekeeper for the power supply to the entire heater circuit.
  • For AC Timing Relay (Depending on approach):

    • If controlling gate directly: ensure the relay output allows gate activation normally and interrupts it based on the timer setting. This might necessitate an additional relay or circuit design depending on your specific configuration.
Important Notes:

  • Ensure the components you select are rated appropriately for the mains voltage (120VAC in your case) and the total current your heater circuit will draw.
  • Installation of these components must adhere to safety regulations, including proper insulation, grounding, and possibly incorporating a fused disconnect for additional safety.
  • The usability of these options depends on your specific circuit design, space constraints, and possible requirement for user interaction or programmability.
8mo
@copilot can you recommend specific components for each of the options you just gave?
8mo
can you suggest a suitable ADC for microphone pickup going through an Arduino Un...
@copilot can you suggest a suitable ADC for microphone pickup going through an Arduino Uno?
9mo
For a project involving microphone pickup going through an Arduino Uno, you would typically need an Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) that can accurately capture the relatively low-voltage analog signals produced by a microphone. The Arduino Uno already has a built-in 10-bit ADC, but for higher-quality audio applications, you might want an external ADC with higher resolution and better signal-to-noise ratio (SNR).
Here's a suitable ADC considering the typical requirements for a microphone pickup system interfacing with an Arduino Uno:
Suggested ADC: ADS1115

  • Resolution: 16-bit
  • Sampling Rate: Up to 860 Samples/Per Second (SPS)
  • Interface: I2C, which is supported by the Arduino Uno
  • Channels: 4 single-ended inputs or 2 differential channels. This is useful if you need to use multiple microphones or need differential inputs for noise reduction.
  • Supply Voltage: 2.0V to 5.5V, compatible with Arduino Uno's 5V or 3.3V operation.
Connection to Arduino Uno and microphone circuit:

  • VDD of ADS1115 to 5V or 3.3V on Arduino Uno (depending on your microphone circuit's needs).
  • GND of ADS1115 to GND on Arduino Uno.
  • SCL of ADS1115 to A5 (SCL) on Arduino Uno.
  • SDA of ADS1115 to A4 (SDA) on Arduino Uno.
  • Connect A0 (or any other analog input channel you choose) to the output of your microphone pre-amplifier circuit.
Additional Considerations:

  1. Microphone Type: Ensure the microphone's output is conditioned through a pre-amplifier circuit to match the input range of the ADS1115. Microphones typically output very small voltages that need amplification.
  2. Power Supply: The ADS1115 and the microphone's pre-amp circuit should be powered from a clean source to reduce noise. Using separate power supplies for the analog and digital sections, if feasible, might improve performance.
  3. Programming: Use the available Arduino libraries specifically for the ADS1115 to simplify programming. Libraries such as "Adafruit_ADS1X15" offer easy-to-use functions to read analog values.
This setup should significantly improve the quality of audio signals captured by the Arduino Uno compared to its built-in ADC, especially if you're working on applications that need greater detail and precision in sound capture.
9mo
I'd like to build a smart curtain that opens or closes based on the amount of su...
@copilot I'd like to build a smart curtain that opens or closes based on the amount of sunshine I want to enter my room. How would you approach designing this? Please ask me questions to help with the development.
9mo
Designing a smart curtain system that opens or closes based on the desired amount of sunshine involves a combination of mechanical, electrical, and software components. Let's break down the design process into manageable parts and identify key questions to guide the development.
1. Understanding Requirements

  • Sunlight Sensing: How do you plan to measure the amount of sunlight? A common approach is using a light-dependent resistor (LDR) or a photodiode.
  • User Interaction: How should the user set their desired level of sunlight? Options include physical controls (like a dial), a smartphone app, or voice commands.
  • Automation Level: Should the system only react to user settings, or also automate based on time of day or predefined conditions (e.g., close curtains during peak sun hours)?
2. Mechanical Design

  • Curtain Type: Are we working with a standard curtain, blinds, or another type? The mechanism to move the curtains can differ.
  • Actuation Mechanism: Considering the curtain type, what type of actuator would be appropriate? Options include stepper motors for precise control or servo motors for simpler setups.
3. Electrical and Electronics Design

  • Sensors: If using an LDR or photodiode, we'll need to condition the signal for use by a microcontroller.
  • Control Unit: A microcontroller (e.g., Arduino, ESP32) can manage sensor inputs, user inputs, and control the actuator.
  • Driver Circuit: Depending on the actuator chosen, we might need a motor driver circuit to control it.
  • Power Supply: What will be the power source? Battery, mains, or both?
4. Software Design

  • Control Algorithm: We'll need to develop software that interprets the sensor data relative to the user's desired sunlight level and adjusts the curtain position accordingly.
  • User Interface: For app or voice controls, we'll need software on the relevant platform (smartphone, smart home system) to communicate with the microcontroller.
Questions for Development:

  1. Sunlight Sensing Choice: Would you prefer an LDR or photodiode for sunlight sensing, or do you have another method in mind?
  2. User Input Method: What's your preferred method for setting the desired sunlight level?
  3. Curtain Type and Size: What are the physical characteristics of the curtains you're looking to automate?
  4. Power Considerations: Do you have a preference for how the system should be powered?
  5. Connectivity Requirements: Should the system be able to connect to the internet or a home network for remote control or integration with smart home ecosystems?
Your answers to these questions will help refine the design approach and identify the components and schematics needed to make your smart curtain system a reality.
9mo
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A, G
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P1, GND, E, P1, P1, -Vo
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Net 19
Reports nodes that are using rules that are not supported anymore.
Reports layers that have multiple copper fills of different nets. Make sure the Connected Layers rule value of nets with fills is valid.
Detect any via, trace or copper fill island that is not connected to any net.