Note: this project should be used together with the project Electronic Active Dummy Load PCB_1/2 (Analog Board) :https://www.pcbway.com/project/shareproject/Electronic_Active_Dummy_Load_PCB1_2_Analog_Board_4735bfbf.html

The active electronic load consists of two modules:

- the analog module - Electronic Active Dummy Load_PCB1/2 (Analog Board)

- digital module with Atmega328 - (the one shown here)

Proposed parameters for the prototype: 0-50V, 0-10A, 250W.

The load has two operating modes: constant current mode and constant resistance mode.

For superior performance, special attention had to be paid to cooling. The digital module adds more comfort in use because it manages the thermal regime and alerts the user or even cuts off the power supply in critical situations.

This module has the following functions:

- manages the temperature of the cooling system by controlling the speed of the fan depending on the temperature of the heatsink

- the fan starts when the temperature reaches 40 degrees Celsius

- the speed of the fan increases progressively up to 60 degrees Celsius when it reaches the maximum speed

- sends sound alerts for reaching a temperature of 80 degrees Celsius, this temperature being considered critical

- disconnects the load when the temperature reaches 100 degrees Celsius

- keeps the fan running for continuous cooling of the system even after disconnecting the load

- makes it possible to reuse the load when the temperature has dropped below 60 degrees Celsius

- provides information about the load parameters on an LCD1602 screen

The front panel of the project ensures:

- switching on/off the load output

- changing the working mode: constant resistance mode/constant current mode

- adjusting the load parameters

The digital module must be used only together with the analog module which is another shared project on this site. Please see this project: https://www.pcbway.com/project/shareproject/Electronic_Active_Dummy_Load_PCB1_2_Analog_Board_4735bfbf.html

The functioning of the prototype built by me can be seen in the following clips:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mFIV7O4Ulko

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ntBzmWfZGSo&t=11s