---
title: "Hardware"
date: 2025-01-24
draft: false
description: "The Hardware"
tags: ["esp32", "hardware"]
---

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{{< gitea server="https://git.mannheim.ccc.de/" repo="C3MA/PlantCtrl" >}}

## Modular Design
The PlantCtrl hardware has been redesigned from a single large PCB into a more flexible, modular system. This allows users to only build or use the components they actually need for their specific setup.

The system now consists of a **MainBoard** which acts as the controller and several pluggable or connectable modules.

## MainBoard (ESP32-C6)
* **Processor:** ESP32-C6 (RiscV)
* **Connectivity:** WiFi, Bluetooth, Zigbee/Thread support
* **Form Factor:** Compact main board with headers for modules
* **Fully Open Source:** Designed in KiCad

## Available Modules
* **MPPT Charger:** Efficient solar charging for batteries using CN3795.
* **Pump Driver:** High-current outputs (up to 3A) for pumps and valves.
* **Sensor Module:** CAN bus-based moisture sensors using CH32V203 microcontroller.
* **Battery Management:** External BMS board with CH32V203 for battery monitoring.
* **Light Controller:** For LED nightlights or growth lights using AP63200.

## Sensor Module (CAN bus)
The standard sensor module features its own **CH32V203 RISC-V microcontroller**, which handles the measurement of soil moisture and communicates the results back to the MainBoard via the CAN bus.

* **Capacity:** Supports up to 16 sensors (typically 8 plants with an A and B sensor each).
* **Reliability:** Digital communication via CAN bus ensures data integrity even over longer cable runs and in electrically noisy environments.
* **Addressing:** The A sensor is always used; the B sensor is optional and suggested for larger planters to provide a better average of the soil moisture.

## Capabilities
* **Moisture Sensors:** Supports multiple capacitive or resistive sensors via CAN bus-based Sensor Modules.
* **Pumps/Valves:** Support for multiple independent watering zones.
* **Power:** 
    * Solar powered with MPPT
    * Battery powered with optional Battery Management System (BMS)
    * Can also be used with a standard power supply (7-24V)
* **Efficient Power:** Use of high-efficiency DC-DC converters for 3.3V and peripherals.

## Made with:
<a href="https://www.kicad.org/">
  <img class="lazy" src="kicad_logo_small.png" alt="Image">
</a>