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Single-Axis PIC Controlled Solar Tracker DIY Kit

Hi All I'm not going into as much depth with this instructable due to my current time constraints.

Tags: #solar-tracker
Ibrar Ayyub By Ibrar Ayyub
Published

At a glance

CategorySensors & Temperature
Reading time~2 min

Summary of Single-Axis PIC Controlled Solar Tracker DIY Kit

Summary: A simple single-axis solar/light tracker using stepper motors and a PIC controller is presented as a DIY science project. The author demonstrates the kit via videos and plans future software and algorithm updates. The design is modular and intended for learning and improvement; kits are available though the instructable provides ideas for independent upgrades.

Parts used in the Single-Axis PIC Controlled Solar Tracker DIY Kit:

  • PIC microcontroller
  • Stepper motor
  • Stepper motor driver
  • Light sensors (photodiodes or LDRs)
  • Solar panel or light source mount
  • Power supply (battery or DC source)
  • Mechanical axis and mounting hardware
  • PCB or prototyping board
  • Connecting wires and connectors
  • Enclosure or chassis

Hi All
I'm not going into as much depth with this instructable due to my current time constraints.  That said, I fully plan on updating this instructable as time progresses with new algorithms and programs for optimization.
Single-Axis PIC Controlled Solar Tracker DIY Kit
Intro:
I was messing around with some new stepper motors one day, and I decided to make a light tracker unit.  It is very simple and works on only one axis.  It is a neat science project.  Below is a video that offers a small demonstration.  The following pages will have videos on how to put it together.  There is a lot of discussion about how this kit works in the videos, so if you are really interested, then pay careful attention to what I say in the videos.  Below is video#1.
Single-Axis PIC Controlled Solar Tracker DIY Kit Schemetic
NOTE:  While I do sell this as a kit, you can use the ideas and algorithms talked about in this instructable/video to improve upon this basic design.  It was designed as a fun little science project.  I will be adding software and improvements as time progresses  so please be patient with me =)

For more detail: Single-Axis PIC Controlled Solar Tracker DIY Kit

  • What is the project about?
    It is a simple single-axis light or solar tracker using a PIC controller and a stepper motor demonstrated as a DIY kit.
  • Does the project use stepper motors?
    Yes, the project uses stepper motors to move the tracker on one axis.
  • What controller is used in the kit?
    The kit uses a PIC microcontroller.
  • Can I buy this as a kit?
    Yes, the author sells this project as a kit.
  • Is there software or algorithms provided?
    The author discusses algorithms in the videos and plans to add software and optimizations over time.
  • Is this project intended for learning and improvement?
    Yes, it is designed as a fun science project that users can improve upon.
  • Does the instructable include videos?
    Yes, the instructable includes videos demonstrating the tracker and how it works.
  • Can I modify the design?
    Yes, the instructable encourages using the ideas and algorithms to improve the basic design.
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Ibrar Ayyub

Ibrar Ayyub

I am an experienced technical writer holding a Master's degree in computer science from BZU Multan, Pakistan University. With a background spanning various industries, particularly in home automation and engineering, I have honed my skills in crafting clear and concise content. Proficient in leveraging infographics and diagrams, I strive to simplify complex concepts for readers. My strength lies in thorough...