esp32-digital-load

Welcome to the esp32-digital-load project! This repository contains everything you need to build your own digital load using an ESP32 and an IRF3205 MOSFET.

📁 Repository Structure

• src/: Contains the firmware code for the ESP32.
• hardware/: Contains the KiCAD files and schematics for the project.

📝 Project Overview

This Digital Load is designed to provide a way to control a MOSFET with a PWM signal, leveraging an ESP32 microcontroller to adjust the load current using a potentiometer, with visual feedback provided by LEDs.

📜 Firmware (src/)

The firmware, developed using the Arduino IDE, controls the PWM signal based on the potentiometer's position. Key features include:

• Pin Definitions: Specifies the pins for the potentiometer, PWM output, and LEDs.
• PWM Parameters: Sets the PWM frequency to 50 kHz and resolution to 8 bits.
• Setup Function: Initializes the Serial interface, configures the LED pins, and sets up the PWM on the specified pin.
• Main Loop: Continuously reads the potentiometer value, converts it to a voltage, and maps this voltage to a PWM duty cycle ranging from 0 to 50% of the maximum PWM value. The duty cycle is then written to the PWM pin, and debug information is printed to the Serial Monitor.

🔧 Hardware (hardware/)

The hardware folder contains all the necessary KiCAD files and schematics to build the esp32-digital-load. Key components include:

• IRF3205 MOSFET: Capable of handling high currents with a 55V threshold and 110A current rating.
• ESP32 Microcontroller: Connects to the potentiometer to adjust the PWM duty cycle, providing precise control over the load.

🚀 Getting Started

To get started with the ESP32-DigitalLoad, follow these steps:

1. Clone the Repository: git clone https://github.com/ElektorLabs/esp32-digital-load.git
2. Upload the Firmware: Open the src/ folder in the Arduino IDE and upload the firmware to your ESP32.
3. Assemble the Hardware: Use the KiCAD files in the hardware/ folder to assemble your electronic load controller.
4. Test Your Setup: Follow the instructions in the firmware to test and calibrate your ESP32-DigitalLoad.

🤝 Contributing

We welcome contributions to improve this project! Feel free to submit issues or pull requests.