Hi Friends
Thought I would share some pics and info on the tank controller I built.
Its built around and controlled by 2x Siemens PLCs contained in a DB box for a neat appearance.
It controls the following and not limited too. (as it can be programmed to do pretty much ANYTHING)
Lighting
1 channel for sump lighting
3 independent channels for tank lighting
with the following modes - Override "on", Delay switch off (fades light out), immediate off, Sump light override on.
Pumps
Controls all pumps.
Prevents pumps running dry (Level sensors)
Overdosing of RO water (Time management system and level sensors)
Override on RO pump
Feeding time (switches off pumps for a preset time for feeding)
Temperature
Controls tank temp to 0.1 Deg C.
Controls any heating and cooling device.
Starts shutting lights down at preset temp to limit heat build up.
Other Options
Control automatic water changes
Control feeding
Ph monitor / controller
Could probably do what ever you wanted, except getting your mother-in-law to move out the house........still working on that!
Overall view
The Guts
DIY Temp Probe
Temp Probe Amplifier
All systems go....
LCD - Temp = 18.6 (For inside a flat in Durban, It's COLD)
What you think? Can I leave my day job yet?
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Thought I would share some pics and info on the tank controller I built.
Its built around and controlled by 2x Siemens PLCs contained in a DB box for a neat appearance.
It controls the following and not limited too. (as it can be programmed to do pretty much ANYTHING)
Lighting
1 channel for sump lighting
3 independent channels for tank lighting
with the following modes - Override "on", Delay switch off (fades light out), immediate off, Sump light override on.
Pumps
Controls all pumps.
Prevents pumps running dry (Level sensors)
Overdosing of RO water (Time management system and level sensors)
Override on RO pump
Feeding time (switches off pumps for a preset time for feeding)
Temperature
Controls tank temp to 0.1 Deg C.
Controls any heating and cooling device.
Starts shutting lights down at preset temp to limit heat build up.
Other Options
Control automatic water changes
Control feeding
Ph monitor / controller
Could probably do what ever you wanted, except getting your mother-in-law to move out the house........still working on that!
Overall view
The Guts
DIY Temp Probe
Temp Probe Amplifier
All systems go....
LCD - Temp = 18.6 (For inside a flat in Durban, It's COLD)
What you think? Can I leave my day job yet?
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