Dual Axis Tracker
- Grades: 7+
- Additional Documents: Project Database
About:
Create your own computer controlled Solar Tracker in under an hour with this specialized solar kit!
This kit includes everything you need to complete the project, from the wooden parts and screws to the custom Arduino shield and micro servos. The entire project takes about an hour to build. The only tools you'll need to complete this project are some screw drivers and a computer to upload the final code (included). When finished the project can be power by any USB power source, such as a power bank or computer USB port.
Data collection is easy using the 6V 200mA solar panel and the LED volt meter. This allows the tracker to easily be used as part of a science faire project or as a classroom demo. Since the kit is only held together by screws it can easily be disassembled for multiple uses in a classroom setting.
To make the build easier, Brown Dog Gadgets designed their own custom Arduino Shield and PCB sensor holder. Code is included in their online directions and can be uploaded via the free Arduino IDE software. Curious creators can also modify or upload their own custom code through the same interface.