Summary of MinieC I2C eC interface
MinieC is a low-cost I2C eC (electrical conductivity) interface that simplifies analog measurement of solution conductivity, enabling easy, accurate, and low-disturbance readings from most eC probes. Designed for accessibility and hand assembly, it uses an affordable I2C ADC and a robust analog front end to make water-quality sensing deployable in schools, remote research, and maker projects.
Parts used in the MinieC eC interface:
- eC probe (conductivity probe)
- I2C ADC (cheap, accurate, reliable I2C analog-to-digital converter)
- Analog front-end circuitry (components to minimize probe current and disturbance)
- Passive components (resistors, capacitors) for signal conditioning
- Connectors or headers for I2C and probe connections
- PCB or prototyping board for mounting components
- Power supply components (voltage regulator or power input circuitry)
- Solder and basic assembly materials for hand assembly
MinieC eC interface is a very cost effective solution for adding eC sensing capability to any project. This unit takes the analog complexity out of measuring the conductivity of a solution.
While working with Peter from ManyLabs/WireGarden, we wanted to begin to create a system of open source water quality sensors that can be cheaply deployed in schools, remote research, maker projects, basically anywhere there is a need! This project is the result of the knowledge gained from the pH line of interfaces combined with research and prototyping, I spent a lot of time incorporating a solid analog font end to interface with most eC probes with minimal current and disruption to the Solution under test.
By using a cheap, accurate and reliable I2C ADC we can both increase accuracy and decrease cost, and also create a product that people can source parts for globally at reasonable prices. It also makes the unit monolithic in the fact that it it all that is needed to interface an eC probe and therefore take readings! while the the ADC is in a small package they are easy enough to handle even for hand soldering! This unit can even be hand assembled.
For more detail: MinieC I2C eC interface
- What is the MinieC eC interface?
It is a low-cost I2C eC interface that simplifies measuring solution conductivity using an analog front end and an I2C ADC. - Can the MinieC be hand assembled?
Yes, the unit is designed so it can be hand assembled with components small enough for hand soldering. - How does MinieC reduce disturbance to the solution?
By incorporating a solid analog front end that interfaces with probes with minimal current and disruption to the solution under test. - Why use an I2C ADC in the MinieC?
Using a cheap, accurate, and reliable I2C ADC increases measurement accuracy, reduces cost, and allows globally sourced parts. - Where can the MinieC be deployed?
It can be deployed in schools, remote research, maker projects, and other places needing affordable water-quality sensing. - Does the MinieC require additional hardware to take readings?
No, the unit is monolithic and is all that is needed to interface an eC probe and take readings. - Is the MinieC intended for open source projects?
Yes, it was developed as part of an effort to create open source water quality sensors that can be cheaply deployed.
