What do you like and would like in a timer ?

Just want to know what would you like to see in a timer ?

Also what options in a timer ?

Power handling ?

Seems to be a gray area what people would like ect.

I program and build control systems with PLC's and will be using them in my setup.

Will post the system and how to later on. Need info.:p

Thanks in advance all :smokin:

the average stuff. high amperage (for instance, something able to withstand 30 or more amps), multiple timing points available if used for watering or CO2 or fans, ACCURATE timing (no guesswork), non-digital (always less to break) and something that will continue to run on batties. The last thing I think is nice cause if your power goes out, then you dont need to reset everything, stays on the clock.

Possibly a central timer with multiple timers in one would be nice.

All of these things are already made.

Mechanical timers will eventually wear and break. Digital is the only way to go. These two have been in service for 3yrs and i have a couple intermatic dt1 and dt7 near 20yrs old.

I like the multiple on/off features {20} of the timers shown. A short "on" time is important too, and these offer a one minute on time which is great for an ebb/flo system where multiple flooding daily is needed. They can handle pretty much anything that a normal breaker/elec line can deliver without overheating, and neither has ever missed a beat. I replace the backup battery once yearly.

I even accidently plugged on of my dt1 timers into a 220 outlet for a couple of hrs once, and it got warm but, is still inservice, and being able to handle higher than normal voltage is a good sign of a well made product. Idiot proof, so to speak.:D

I would like to see a timer at the same price of these {about $20} that had a switch that would allow them to be used with either 220v or 110v.:thumbsup:

OldNslow those timers you pictured caused me nothing but problems with my 250W setup, probly because I was using them for balast/air movement/nutrient reservoir pump. Sometimes they reset, sometimes didn't switch. The great advantage with digital is the Multiple Event Timer Functions that enable you to switch on and off many times per day, or miss days out if you wanted. that is a bonus IMO. I think the mechanical 6 way Gemini contactors like the one pictured below are better than the low powered household equipment available. But I suppose its down to application in most sence. £115 is expensive but I know where i can get 2nd hand ones for less than 1/5th of the retail price.

Hi Sl, it appears you are not in the us? I have read lots of posts in the past from folks in the uk/europe that have probs with digital timers. I know the voltage/amperage is different there, but couldnt tell you what the difference is. I would guess there might be power surges, or maybe a low voltage situation that might cause a problem, but that should create probs with every electrical device? Anyway, we all gotta use what works for us each. Peace and good growin'

:thumbsup:

I guess I am oldschool in that I feel more secure with something that is mechanical and wears out...rather then something that is digital and electronic. I can never trust electronics as much as good old mechanics. Digital seems like the obvious way to go...I guess I just dont have much faith in leaving for vacation and knowing it will be fine.

Hi all and thanks:D :dance:

I am going to use a Siemens Logo! PLC for my timer and pump control.

A very reliable unit I used them for control systems were I was working before they went belly up :p

It has a back up battery that lasts for 72 hours.

It can also be set up that the program will stay at the state it was in before power failer. also during power failer and restore it will have a 10-20 minute delay in restating any HPS or HID lights. so not to hot strike them.

It has 8 inputs and 4 outputs.
first 4 inputs are on off two can count to 2000 hz and last to are 0-10volt analog. all are digital or configurable like stated above.

Can be expandable to add more I/O and I also have a 2 channel RTD input module for temp control as well.

I will keep you all posted as it is being created the program, wireing ect.

the outputs will be SSR (solid state relays) no contacts to burn out and can have a rating of 90 amps or more.

All control switching, Level switchs ect will be at 12 or 24volts for safety.

The power supply is universal 90-240 volts AC 50-60 hz.

More info would be nice as I progress.

Stated woking on the program already :stoned:

the unit when finished won't be cheap but I have lots of parts when I was building automated control systems for were I was working till they went belly up. But it depends on what one calls expensive. I prefer reliablity over cost cutting.:D

thanks again all :smokin:

That is literally a computer (Programmable Logic Controller)? I worked with one of them which had a Motorala 68000 chip . I programmed it to be a washing machine.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by SpiritLevel

That is literally a computer (Programmable Logic Controller)? I worked with one of them which had a Motorala 68000 chip . I programmed it to be a washing machine.

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Yep it is and very reliable never seen one fail unless drowned in water.

This unit has a LCD display that allows you to change settings on the unit with out a computer to upload ... if not you can program the whole unit with the front buttons .... but its teadeous at best ...... I use a computer for the uploading the program and testing... But its nice to be able to change setting directly on the unit.

This is a picture of the unit i will be using. :cool:
Was going to put it on my last message but forgot:stoned:

Any how despite the lack of input to my question I have started working on the controler/timer..

got 2 cycles for the light 12/12 and 18/06

Pump timer on and off

Air fan timer on and off for breif monents while the light is on for CO2 refreshemnt and for when temp goes to hi and shuts off when temp is normal

Is there anything im missing here

Thanks in advance:stoned: