I’m working on a small DIY project (four variants of smart switch. 10 Amp and 16 Amp and under this which can take 2 and 4 devices) to automate some home devices, and I need assistance with creating the schematics and PCB layout. If you could provide feedback on the design or suggest components that might improve the system, eliminate redundancies, or fix any errors, I’d really appreciate it. Since I’m not familiar with the rates for such services, I’d be grateful if you could give me a rough estimate so I can offer a fair and reasonable rate for your help.
The device will used along with Home assistant to be controlled over internet and also locally [offline].
A rough architecture of the project is:
AC [MAINS] → [MOV + TVS] → [NTC Thermistor] → [EMI Filter] → Output to AC-DC Converter → Further components (relays, power monitoring IC etc)
I'm thinking of using:
Surge Protection (MOV (275V) and 16A Fuse or we can also use NTC Thermistor)
AC-DC [RAC05-12S]
DC-Voltage/Linear Regulator (MP1584)
Relay [ [Yuanzi Electric YTA-SS-105DM 250V AC 16A or any other relay with similar specs or form factor]
Power monitoring [ [BL0937 or HLW8012 or IC similar specs]
You are presenting a solution before discussing the problem. This is the first page of any design course titled how NOT to build systems. Present your requirements first.
My budget is between $50-$80. I'm not sure whether my requirements can be met in that range. I do not want to put a lower amount than the required amount.
Since I charge $250/hr 3 month minimum I don't think we can do it for a fee. If however you present some proper requirements instead of a sort of solution maybe we can help for free.
A description of what you want, not your solution. If you have a solution, go and build it and if it doesn't work present wiring diagram and code so others may help.
Great, now you just need to show us the wiring diagram. I am not responsible for it working, just the transfer of the diagram to a PCB. If you want a working PCB, that is a longer and much more expensive exercise. Arde you sure you understand what you want and the cost?
I'm not aware of cost's but yes I'm sure what I need. I'm tired of using commercial smart switches in my country as all have some or the other caveats associated with them.
I hope you realize any DIY solution with the same functionality will have the same caveats associated with them, probably cost more, and be less reliable. What are these caveats that concern you.
Hi there,
Your project sounds quite interesting! I’ve worked on similar smart switch and PCB design projects that integrate with Home Assistant, supporting both online and local control.
Your architecture looks solid. Here are a few suggestions:
BL0937 and HLW8012 are both good options for power monitoring, though BL0937 tends to have slightly more documentation within the Arduino community.
Your relay choice is appropriate, just make sure to pay attention to track width and isolation distances during PCB layout.
MP1584 is a reliable DC regulator but can run a bit hot, so it’s important to plan some thermal relief like a heatsink or proper copper pour.
If you'd like, I can assist with schematic review, PCB layout, and component optimization. I’d be happy to discuss a fair rate depending on how in-depth the support you need is.