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RV Project Idea - AS3935 IC Lightning Detector

talon167

Member
For the electronics hobbyists among us... would this be useful in an RV as secondary/backup?

Spankfun 4x4 mm AS3935 Lightning Sensor IC board for 24.95 (need to pair with cheap MCU)

https://cdn.sparkfun.com/assets/learn_tutorials/9/2/1/AS3935_Datasheet_EN_v2.pdf"]AS3935 DataSheet

Features:
  • 40km radius range w/accuracy of 1km in 15 steps
  • Programmable detection levels/thresholds
  • Distance to storm estimation (edge of storm, not lightning event)
  • IC-embedded false event rejection algorithm
  • SPI programming interface
  • Supply Voltage: 2.4V - 5.5V (internal IC voltage regulator)
  • Auto IC calibration
  • Passive detection of cloud-to-cloud as well as cloud-to-ground
  • Built-in antenna (500KHz Resonant Frequency)

Programming is really simple - the hardwired, distance estimation algo simply issues an interrupt on the IRQ pin. Use a connected MCU to provide UI (text on MCU LCD, lights, sounds, etc). SparkFun has ardunio code on GitHub and detailed instructions.

Interference @ 500KHz (may be difficult to shield detector from)
  • Inductor DC to DC converters absent mumetal shielding on the converters
  • smart phone and smatch watch displays (when display is active)

The board is designed for use in diy weather stations.
15441-SparkFun_Lightning_Detector_-_AS3935_-01.jpg
 
I think it's a neat idea. There are a few people who have played with making up their own boards and/or using Arduinos, so maybe someone will do it.
 
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