**Title: Seeking Assistance for Custom Circuit Design to Measure Electric Fence Voltage** I’m reaching out for assistance with designing a specialized circuit tailored to measure electric fence voltage. It’s been a while since I've been involved in the raw electronics field, so I could really use some expert advice or recommendations for professionals who can handle this design. I’ve come across similar products on the market, but they tend to be either overpriced or overly complex, which means they don’t align with my project’s specific requirements. **Project Specifications:** - **Voltage Input:** Approximately 10kV pulsing, activating for a few milliseconds once per second. - **Voltage Step-Down:** The circuit needs to reduce this voltage to a maximum of 5V, making it suitable for connection to an Arduino. - **Safety Features:** Integration of opto-isolation between the 10kV input and the 5V output, as well as overvoltage protection, is essential. - **Rectification:** Due to the different energizers available, a full-wave bridge rectifier should be included. - **Peak Hold Functionality:** I’d like to consider adding a peak hold circuit that can reset every 4-5 seconds (with user-selectable options for on/off/rate), which might be manageable with the Arduino's capabilities. - **Cost Efficiency:** It’s pivotal to maintain the lowest possible component costs. All resistors must be capable of withstanding the voltages they will encounter in the circuit. **PCB Design Requirements:** A printed circuit board (PCB) design is desired, taking into account adequate clearances to prevent tracking between the high-voltage input terminals and other components. **Additional Considerations:** - The device should have a compact form factor and use low-cost, easily obtainable components. - If active components are necessary, low power consumption is a priority since the device will be powered by a solar rechargeable battery. - There’s no need for a readout display as the device will be permanently connected to the fence, so ensure the input impedance is sufficiently high to avoid being perceived as a short circuit. **Deliverables Needed:** - Circuit diagram - Bill of materials (BOM) - PCB layout - Explanatory notes - Estimated component costs - Proof of functionality Thank you in advance for your help! I look forward to any recommendations or guidance you can provide.
What purpose do you use the monitor for? Is it connected to another device for output?
The initial component you need is a high voltage divider, specifically designed using EBG Resistors. It's recommended to encase it in a potted module for optimal performance. If you're interested, you can easily create your own high voltage divider by following the instructions available here.
User Jonnie_R inquired: What is the purpose of your monitor? Is it connected to another device for output? Click to expand... Indeed, it will be outputting data to an Arduino board.
Why not consider purchasing one of the numerous voltage testers available on the market and modify it to provide an output signal to your Arduino, rather than using an LCD display for readings? Brands like Gallagher and Nemtek offer reliable options that you might already be familiar with. While I lack experience with printed circuit boards (PCBs), I am genuinely interested in your project, as I specialize in designing and maintaining fencing systems in the UK that utilize Gallagher equipment. Fortunately, I know a contact in the UK who might be able to assist you further.
Jonnie_R suggested: Why not consider purchasing one of the many voltage testers available in the market and adapt it to send an output to the Arduino instead of just displaying the readings on an LCD screen? Brands like Gallagher, Nemtek, and others offer such devices, as you may already know. While I lack experience with PCBs, I'm genuinely interested in your project since I design and maintain fence systems in the UK that utilize Gallagher products. I do know someone in the UK who might be able to assist as well. Ultimately, my goal is to integrate these values into a wireless mesh network for real-time monitoring and display at the base station or on the web. On my farm, I manage multiple energizers from different manufacturers and various fence segments; therefore, I aim to monitor each segment both before and after the isolators across the property. I've been exploring various testers but find that many circuits are overly complicated, and their prices, ranging between $160 and $200, are too high for my requirements. At each monitoring location, I will need at least two fence inputs (from the line and load sides of the switch), with the potential for up to four fence intersections. For future enhancements, I'll also be integrating GPS location data for mapping purposes. Currently, my plan is for the Arduino to gather the raw input values and transmit them via a LoRa mesh back to the central base, which will handle the scaling, alerting, and web display. This will allow me to use the same end nodes for other tasks, such as transmitting tank levels and pump statuses. I’ve also evaluated the Gallagher iSeries products, but they are too expensive and restrictive for my needs. Modifying an existing unit would require reverse engineering the circuit, likely resulting in a solution that is still too cumbersome for my purposes. The success of this project fundamentally depends on reducing the cost of the 10KV to 5V interface to an affordable level.
Hey there! It sounds like an interesting project you've got! For measuring high voltages, you might want to start with an appropriate voltage divider to step down that 10kV to a safer range before feeding it into any circuitry. Additionally, ensure your opto-isolators are rated for that high voltage, as safety is crucial here. For the peak hold functionality, you could use a simple capacitor-resistor combo in the circuit, combined with a MOSFET switch controlled by the Arduino. If you're looking for low-cost components, check out local electronics suppliers or online marketplaces; sometimes you can find great deals on surplus parts. Good luck with the design, and I hope you find the right expertise to bring this to life!
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