PowerCore Development Board Brings a Level of Control Over AC-Powered Devices
The board is outfitted with an ATmega328P and ESP32 module and allows users to control the AC and wireless connectivity of their devices.
Computer scientist Nathan Tsoi was developing a machine vision-based camera that required the soldering of some BGA components. Like anyone who has to solder many components to a PCB, he figured the best way to go about it was to use a reflow oven. A search online led him to the popular Happybuy T962; however, the reflow unit would need to be modded for his project and ultimately decided to build his own he dubbed the FluxLamp.
As with any project, Tsoi ran into a problem with his FluxLamp design, specifically connecting a hand solder prototype board to AC, which he found rather risky. Out of safety concerns, he chose to create a hacker-friendly development platform that could be connected directly to AC power without risk, and thus his PowerCore development board was born (more on the FluxLamp in a bit).
The PowerCore is an Arduino-based board outfitted with an AC-input optocoupler, 600V (8A) Triac, and integrated 12V (3-watt) AC/DC power supply for phase fired control. The board features a pair of MCUs, including an ATmega328P, which Tsoi employs as the primary application processor, as it's 5V tolerant and can be used with the extensive Arduino libraries. The other is an ESP32 module he tasks for wireless control and UART-based programming, logging, and upgrading firmware. The board also packs an integrated K-type thermocouple temperature sensor, and a 1.77-inch TFT LCD display and a high-quality rotary encoder for building interfaces.
With the PowerCore complete, Tsoi strapped it to a 500-watt halogen work light, which provides the heat source for the FluxLamp, which lies face down on top of the PCB that’s going to be reflowed. Tsoi has uploaded a greatly detailed walkthrough of how he came up with the FluxLight and PowerCore on his blog for those interested in recreating his builds.