Ok so I just had a couple quick questions for a project i'm working on. I want to make a linear actuator to open up greenhouse window using a sensor, arduino, and lcd screen. I don't have the linear actuator picked out yet (probably just going to create my own with some 3d printed parts and a stepper motor). My question is what would be the best power supply to go with? This is something thats going to bee outside all the time and have voltage being drawn from an lcd screen, sensor, stepper motor and most likely an l298n board for the stepper motor. How can I determine how much voltage is going to be used in total for this project? Thank you in advance!
You're working backwards. You have to spec all the parts, figure their power needs, and THEN get a PS sufficient to run it and then some. Get the actuator working. It might need a LOT of current at +5 but a lot less at +24 (industrial control level). Once you get the mechanism characterized (start current, run current, etc.) THEN you can select a power supply to fit your needs. Motors are electrically noisy. You may need a driver card with level shifting but TTL (+5) inputs.
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The first thing you need to do is learn the difference between a volt and an amp.
And … a stepper motor is not a good choice , use a dc motor with limit switches .
Have a look at commercially available devices , these are usually very simple with a mechanical thermostat triggering a motor and gearbox driving a rack gear or cable to open the window . Most are completely mechanical and are driven by bimetallic strips - this will tell you at least the type of technology you need .
Have a quick study of ohms law and motor specifications
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Why?
Greenhouse windows normally use mechanical thermostatic openers that look like the gas strut of a hatchback car. No motor, no batteries.
Leo..
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