Have you ever faced the frustration of dealing with an overflowing tank or a pump running dry? These unexpected events can result in costly damage and inconvenience. A reliable floater switch alarm system can provide early warnings, allowing you to take prompt action and prevent further issues. This project guides you through building a do-it-yourself floater switch alarm system using a PIC12F508 microcontroller.
The circuit for this project is relatively simple and requires very few components. The system is designed to operate with a 12V DC power supply and utilizes a 230V AC buzzer unit for audible alerts.
Prototype version of the limit switch alarm controller.
The circuit includes a mute function that allows you to temporarily silence the alarm for a specified duration. Additionally, a built-in timeout mechanism ensures continuous alarm activation if the floater switch remains closed for an extended period, indicating a potential emergency. This project is suitable for various applications, including home or industrial monitoring, and environmental monitoring.
PIC12F508 MCU and firmwareThe firmware for the microcontroller will control the operation of the alarm system. It should perform the following tasks:
- Monitor the floater switch: Continuously read the input pin from the floater switch.
- Activate the alarm: If the floater switch detects a change in water level (e.g., rising water), activate the buzzer or alarm.
- Implement a mute function: Allow the user to temporarily mute the alarm by pressing a button.
- Implement a timeout: If the alarm remains active for an extended period, it may indicate a serious issue.
The firmware for this project is developed using the MPLAB X IDE and the XC8 C compiler. The latest firmware source code is available in the firmware directory of the project repository. The compiled firmware is also available in the release section of the project repository.
External ComponentsThis project requires several external components:
- 12V 1A Power Supply Unit (PSU): Provides the necessary power for the microcontroller, relay, and other electronic components.
- Pump Float Switch: A float switch is used to detect changes in liquid levels. Select a float switch that is compatible with the intended application and capable of reliably triggering the alarm system.
- AC High dB Mechanical Buzzer or Industrial Alarm: A loud and attention-grabbing alarm is essential for alerting users to potential emergencies. Consider using an AC-powered mechanical buzzer or industrial alarm that is suitable for the desired noise level.
- Push Switch: A momentary push switch is used to manually mute the alarm.
EnclosureTo protect the electronic components from moisture and other environmental factors, it is recommended to enclose the system in a waterproof enclosure. In our prototype build, we use an 100mm × 68mm × 50mm project enclosure to mount this controller.
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