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Old 06-27-10, 12:06 PM   #98
Xringer
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Where can you buy one (that's less expensive than an active tracker)??

I could probably build one, if I wanted to built and program a micro-controller (with a RTC)
and figure out how to use the pulses from the tracker actuator (mover-motor)
as feedback to 'know' where the array is pointing. I can imagine the calibration process..


As a person that has worked on all kinds of tracking antennas over the last 40
years, I inclined to say, this type of (active) tracker gives you a lot of bang for your bucks.

The less complex a system is, the more likely it is to work longer..

One other thing just occurred to me.. At 6AM, on a day when it's raining and overcast all day.
When T-storms with high winds are passing,
Would I really want my array tracking the sun (behind the clouds) all day long??

Kind of a waste of battery power. After a few days of rain, my little battery would be flat..
(It relies on it's own little 10w PV to stay alive).

Last edited by Xringer; 06-27-10 at 12:13 PM.. Reason: adding on..
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