The Watkins Engineering System LCS-300 =) Its a work in progress, but coming along nicely. Don't ask how much I've sunk into the parts, lets just say its more than a standard Estes Solar controller
Basic specs are master key for power (with indicator light), master arming switch, which activates volt panel meter. I have a switchable resistor to simulate a load to do an accurate battery power test on the voltage meter. Continuity test is via LED and piezo buzzer. Red momentary button is launch. Controller will support up to 3 separate pads (next project is an aluminum 3 station launch pad); each independently selectable, though I'm not inclined towards drag race launchs, it is capable. All wires will be connected to front access panel via banana clips and binding posts. Power is via external 12Vgel battery. I will carry the battery and all wires in a plastic tool box, so that way, its easier to transport to the field
Schematic has been altered several times as I've gone through this, but as I had no prior electronics experience, I've done this as much to quell the 'hacker' instinct and try and gut through it as much as anything else. If it looks like a St Joseph controller, its no accident, I saw the picture of theirs on their website, and liked the looks of it. and thought I'd make a 3 station version with a couple extra bells and whistles
Still need to make up all the cabling, find another set of plug posts (RadioShack was out), and do some final testing(haven't tried to light off an ignitor yet).
PS I know its not an NAR compliant keyswitch, thats still to come, so the safety nazis among you can keep your brown shirts on.
Lugnut
Basic specs are master key for power (with indicator light), master arming switch, which activates volt panel meter. I have a switchable resistor to simulate a load to do an accurate battery power test on the voltage meter. Continuity test is via LED and piezo buzzer. Red momentary button is launch. Controller will support up to 3 separate pads (next project is an aluminum 3 station launch pad); each independently selectable, though I'm not inclined towards drag race launchs, it is capable. All wires will be connected to front access panel via banana clips and binding posts. Power is via external 12Vgel battery. I will carry the battery and all wires in a plastic tool box, so that way, its easier to transport to the field
Schematic has been altered several times as I've gone through this, but as I had no prior electronics experience, I've done this as much to quell the 'hacker' instinct and try and gut through it as much as anything else. If it looks like a St Joseph controller, its no accident, I saw the picture of theirs on their website, and liked the looks of it. and thought I'd make a 3 station version with a couple extra bells and whistles
Still need to make up all the cabling, find another set of plug posts (RadioShack was out), and do some final testing(haven't tried to light off an ignitor yet).
PS I know its not an NAR compliant keyswitch, thats still to come, so the safety nazis among you can keep your brown shirts on.
Lugnut