[timmy]

thanks Ray, guess its just bad luck with the transformer I had.

Will search for another one, the one you have shown is the only one on amazon.co.uk, this has a US style plug so prefer to avoid it

[timmy]

Got my new transformer (24V AC 500mA) off ebay – after 3 days use its dead!

So back to the buzzing AC 24v 1500mA what’s frustrating.

Not having much luck! Going to find another AC to AC transformer supplier.

Quick question:
– do you recommend > 500mA for the sprinkler pi?
– does it matter what order I wire the transformer in?

thanks,
tim

[timmy]

hey RoJo,

Yes I did, I replaced the DC solenoid with an AC one and then after a lot of searching finally found a AC to AC transformer – what was a lot more difficult than you would think!

It does seem that in the UK AC to DC is a lot more common and its easier + cheaper to get DC solenoids – next time when I have more time I think I will give it a go replacing the triacs.

I installed the Mobile Web App yesterday – and its amazing! viewtopic.php?f=33&t=154&hilit=mobile

[timmy]

The Solenoids I have seen and originally purchased where DC in the UK – but that’s just my experience no way I could comment on the full UK market 😉

Thanks for the advance on the transformer, I think I just found what I need on ebay – will report back!

[timmy]

Hey both, wanted to keep this post up to date for other UK purchasers.

So it seems almost impossible to find a AC to AC transformer in the UK, after getting a second transformer online that was AC to DC I ended up walking into a Maplin store to pay an outrages £20 for a AC to AC adaptor:
AC 24v
1500mA

Please to say this works great, but im not that happy with the quality of the transformer – its very large and makes a loud buzzing noise.

Im going to be in US for work next month, so going to order a Rain Bird UT1 Sprinkler System Timer Electric Transformer from amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Rain-Bird-UT1-Sprinkler-Transformer/dp/B000DCN8LS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1375565707&sr=8-1&keywords=sprinkler+transformer

Maybe a DC model of the OpenSprinkler system could be produced for us UK people 😉

[timmy]

Thanks both, I did have my suspicion regarding the PSU.

Was hoping to use something from the large box of PSUs I have, ill find a replacement and update the thread with my results.

thanks again, tim

[timmy]

Hey Salbahra,

PSU is label as a AC Adapter, here is a screen grab:

[timmy]

Hey Ray,

I changed my DC Solenoid for a AC model after we spoke on the forum.

Here is what’s printed on the Solenoid it self:

( fyi i take it transformer = Solenoid)

[timmy]

Thank you Ray and mrburns42.

To be honest im sure this is very simple but I am uncomfortable modifying the board too much with my very limited knowledge on electrics.

I think I may take the hit and purchase a 24-Volt AC Solenoid – at least I will then have a unmodified board and if I have difficulty will be easier to for me to get support 🙂

Thank you again, you have been very helpful!

And thank you Ray for a great system, wish I found this a few years back! 😉

[timmy]

Hi Ray, thanks for your reply.

I have seen that blog post, would I be correct in saying that I need to…
# replace the following triacs http://rayshobby.net/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/IMG_2623-300×168.jpg with a 2N3904 transistor
# swap my 24v AC to a 12v DC power supply

Last few questions…
# I only plan to power one solenoid, would I need to replace all triacs?
# The Pi will be happy with this setup?

Thanks for your help again, the world of triacs and transistors are very new to me 😉

Thanks,
tim

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