Introduction: DIY Adjustable Constant Load (Current & Power)
In this project I will show you how I combined an Arduino Nano, a current sensor, an LCD, a rotary encoder and a couple of other complementary components in order to create an adjustable constant load. It features a constant current and power mode and can handle a maximum of 30V and 20A if your heatsink design can handle it. Let's get started!
Step 1: Watch the Video!
The video gives you all the information you need to make your own adjustable constant load. During the next steps though, I will present you some additional information.
Step 2: Order the Components!
Here you can find a parts list with example seller (affiliate links):
Aliexpress:
1x Arduino Nano: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_dULoNXh
1x 16x2 I2C LCD: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_dSjOzdW
1x Rotary Encoder: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_dZs9jUb
1x TC4420 MOSFET Driver: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_d9epnMB
1x IRFZ44N MOSFET: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_dUJRtAg
1x ACS712 Current Sensor: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_dSKBwNK
1x Fuse Holder: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_dU3K3jS
1x 20A Fuse: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_dTjqvC4
2x Binding Post: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_d9ke5na
Ebay:
1x Arduino Nano: http://rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?...
1x 16x2 I2C LCD: http://rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?...
1x Rotary Encoder: http://rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?...
1x TC4420 MOSFET Driver: http://rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?...
1x IRFZ44N MOSFET: http://rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?...
1x ACS712 Current Sensor: http://rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?...
1x Fuse Holder: http://rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?...
1x 20A Fuse: http://rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?...
2x Binding Post: http://rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?...
Amazon.de:
1x Arduino Nano: https://amzn.to/2BLw2Ml
1x 16x2 I2C LCD: https://amzn.to/2BJ8tnx
1x Rotary Encoder: https://amzn.to/2Lmt5S0
1x TC4420 MOSFET Driver: https://amzn.to/2PBVQ0g
1x IRFZ44N MOSFET: https://amzn.to/2PxQd38
1x ACS712 Current Sensor: https://amzn.to/2NijkGn
1x Fuse Holder: https://amzn.to/2NkffkK
1x 20A Fuse: https://amzn.to/2PCLm0A
2x Binding Post: https://amzn.to/2BP0eGq
Step 3: Create the Circuit!
Here you can find the schematic as well as pictures of my finished circuit. Feel free to use it as a reference for your own circuit.
Step 4: Upload the Code!
Here you can download the code for the project. Upload it to the Arduino Nano through the Arduino IDE
Also make sure to download/include this library:
Attachments
Step 5: Finish the Project!
All that is left to do is mounting all the components inside your enclosure.
Step 6: Success!
You did it! You just created your own adjustable constant load!
Feel free to check out my YouTube channel for more awesome projects: http://www.youtube.com/user/greatscottlab
You can also follow me on Facebook, Twitter and Google+ for news about upcoming projects and behind the scenes information:
