48 lines
1.7 KiB
Markdown
48 lines
1.7 KiB
Markdown
---
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title: "Hardware"
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date: 2025-01-24
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draft: false
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description: "The Hardware"
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tags: ["esp32", "hardware"]
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---
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{{< gallery >}}
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<img src="pcb_front.png" class="grid-w50" />
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<img src="pcb_back.png" class="grid-w50" />
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{{< /gallery >}}
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<!-- TODO: Add new screenshots of the modular PCB setup -->
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{{< gitea server="https://git.mannheim.ccc.de/" repo="C3MA/PlantCtrl" >}}
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## Modular Design
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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.
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The system now consists of a **MainBoard** which acts as the controller and several pluggable or connectable modules.
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## MainBoard (ESP32-C6)
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* **Processor:** ESP32-C6 (RiscV)
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* **Connectivity:** WiFi, Bluetooth, Zigbee/Thread support
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* **Form Factor:** Compact main board with headers for modules
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* **Fully Open Source:** Designed in KiCad
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## Available Modules
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* **MPPT Charger:** Efficient solar charging for batteries.
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* **Pump Driver:** High-current outputs for pumps and valves.
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* **Sensor Interface:** Support for multiple moisture sensors.
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* **Light Controller:** For LED nightlights or growth lights.
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## Capabilities
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* **Moisture Sensors:** Supports multiple capacitive or resistive sensors via expansion modules.
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* **Pumps/Valves:** Support for multiple independent watering zones.
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* **Power:**
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* Solar powered with MPPT
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* Battery powered with optional Battery Management (Fuel Gauge)
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* Can also be used with a standard power supply (7-24V)
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* **Efficient Power:** Use of high-efficiency DC-DC converters for 3.3V and peripherals.
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## Made with:
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<a href="https://www.kicad.org/">
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<img class="lazy" src="kicad_logo_small.png" alt="Image">
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</a>
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