Inside a "30A" remote control - with schematic

bigclivedotcom
23 Mar 202416:55

TLDRThe video script discusses a 433 MHz remote control receiver purchased from eBay, notable for its 30 amp relay and various modes of operation, including momentary action, toggle on/off, and single button time delays. The receiver's programming process is detailed, along with a teardown and analysis of its components, such as the buck regulator, RF receiver module, and power supply circuitry. The video also explores potential modifications for high current applications and the adaptability of the device for 12V DC operation.

Takeaways

  • 📺 The script discusses a 433 MHz remote control receiver purchased from eBay, which is designed for high current applications and household appliances.
  • 🔍 The receiver has a 30 amp relay, which is a significant feature highlighted by the script.
  • 🛠️ The script provides a tutorial on how to program the receiver, detailing the process and different modes of operation.
  • 💡 The receiver has four modes: momentary action, toggle on/off, two-button on/off, and single button time delays with various durations.
  • 🔧 Safety precautions are mentioned, such as the buck regulator and the potential for the antenna to be live at mains voltage.
  • 🔄 The programming process involves pressing and holding the button to cycle through modes and set the desired configuration.
  • 🔍 The script includes a detailed examination of the receiver's internal components, including the relay, capacitors, and circuitry.
  • 🔌 The receiver's terminals are covered by a flap for safety, indicating that it is not suitable for open handling while plugged in.
  • 🔧 The script suggests potential modifications for the receiver, such as upgrading components for high current applications or reflowing solder connections.
  • 🔄 The receiver's design is described as logical, and it is suggested that it could serve as a hackable base for other projects.
  • 🛒 The script concludes by noting the versatility of the receiver and its potential uses, despite the uncertainty about its trustworthiness with high current loads.

Q & A

  • What is the frequency of the remote control receiver mentioned in the transcript?

    -The frequency of the remote control receiver is 433 MHz.

  • What type of relay does the remote control receiver have?

    -The remote control receiver has a 30 amp relay, which is mentioned to be of Chinese specification.

  • What are the four modes of operation for the remote control receiver?

    -The four modes of operation are momentary action, toggle on/toggle off, two-button on/off, and various single button time delays (5 seconds, 10 seconds, 15 seconds, and 20 seconds).

  • How is the remote control receiver programmed?

    -The remote control receiver is programmed by pressing and holding a button on the device, which triggers different blinking patterns of a green LED to indicate the mode being set.

  • What is the significance of the buck regulator found inside the remote control receiver?

    -The buck regulator helps in stepping down the voltage supply within the remote control receiver, providing a stable voltage for the different components to function properly.

  • What safety precautions are advised when handling the remote control receiver?

    -It is advised to treat the terminals with precaution as they are not suitable for open handling while plugged in, and to be mindful that the antenna could be live at mains voltage.

  • What components are identified during the reverse engineering of the remote control receiver?

    -During the reverse engineering, components such as a big relay, a buck regulator, an LED, power supply chip, regulator, remote control decoder chip, and an RF receiver module are identified.

  • How is the relay's back EMF managed?

    -The relay's back EMF is managed with a diode across the relay connections, which prevents high voltage spikes that could damage the transistor when the relay turns off.

  • What is the role of the PN 8015 chip in the circuit?

    -The PN 8015 chip is a simple power supply chip that helps in generating a 12V DC supply for the relay and other components within the remote control receiver.

  • Can the remote control receiver be adapted to operate at 12V DC?

    -Theoretically, yes. The remote control receiver could be adapted to operate at 12V DC by making certain modifications to the circuit, such as using the existing diode and adjusting the connections to the 12V rail.

  • What is the potential use of the remote control receiver?

    -The remote control receiver can be used for automating and adding extra switches around the house, controlling plug-in wall outlets, and other household appliances or working mods.

Outlines

00:00

🛠️ Unboxing and Understanding a 433 MHz High Current Remote Control Receiver

The video begins with the presenter unboxing a 433 MHz remote control receiver purchased from eBay, which is of particular interest due to its high current capacity and inclusion of a 30 amp relay. The receiver is designed for operating wall mods or household appliances. The presenter notes the safety precautions required when handling the device, especially when plugged in, and highlights the presence of a buck regulator and an antenna that should be treated as live at mains voltage. The video then demonstrates the programming process of the receiver, which has four modes: momentary action, toggle on/off, two-button on/off, and single button time delays. The presenter also explains how to switch between these modes and provides insights into the receiver's functionality and potential applications.

05:00

🔍 Detailed Reverse Engineering of the Remote Control Receiver

In this segment, the presenter delves into the internal components of the remote control receiver by opening it up and examining the circuit board. The board features terminals, a large relay, a power supply chip, a regulator, and a remote control decoder chip. The presenter also discusses the quality of the soldering and the potential for upgrading certain components. The video includes a detailed analysis of the circuitry, including the power supply section, the relay connections, and the back EMF diode. The presenter speculates on the possible configurations of the chip and the reasons behind certain design choices, such as the inclusion of additional diodes and the use of a specific transistor.

10:01

💡 Exploring the Power Supply and Receiver Circuitry

The presenter continues the analysis by focusing on the power supply and receiver circuitry of the remote control receiver. The power supply section is responsible for generating a 12V DC supply, with the incoming supply being switched through a relay contact. The presenter explains the function of the various components, such as the fusible resistor, diodes, smoothing capacitors, inductor, and the switching chip. The video also covers the feedback circuit and the stability provided by a voltage divider and a capacitor. The receiver circuit is straightforward, with the 12V supply going directly to the positive of the relay coil and a transistor (Y1) controlling the relay operation. The presenter also discusses the protective diode across the relay and the 5V supply for the microcontroller and RF receiver module.

15:04

🔧 Potential Modifications and Applications of the Remote Control Receiver

The final part of the video discusses potential modifications and applications of the remote control receiver. The presenter suggests that the device could be adapted to operate at 12V DC by making certain changes to the circuit. The presenter also considers the possibility of using the receiver in high current applications, although they express some skepticism about the reliability of the 30 amp relay. The video concludes with the presenter reflecting on the versatility of the receiver and its potential as a hackable base for various projects. The presenter emphasizes the advantage of the receiver's pre-programmed codes, which minimize the risk of code conflicts in densely populated areas.

Mindmap

Keywords

💡433 MHz

433 MHz refers to the frequency used by the remote control receiver described in the video. It is a common frequency for remote controls due to its ability to penetrate walls and other obstacles, making it suitable for home automation and control of devices over longer distances. In the context of the video, the 433 MHz frequency is what allows the remote control receiver to communicate with its corresponding remote.

💡Relay

A relay is an electrical switch that is operated by a separate control signal, known as the input or 'pilot' signal. It is used to control high current devices with a low current signal. In the video, a 30 amp relay is mentioned, indicating the relay's capacity to handle significant electrical loads, such as household appliances or other high-power devices.

💡Programming

Programming in this context refers to the process of setting up or configuring the remote control receiver to work with specific remotes or devices. This involves inputting a code or signal that the receiver will recognize and respond to, allowing for the control of the associated devices.

💡Modes

Modes in the context of the video refer to the different operational settings of the remote control receiver. These settings determine how the receiver responds to the input signals from the remote, such as momentary action, toggle on/off, or two-button on/off configurations.

💡LED

LED stands for Light Emitting Diode, a semiconductor light source that is used in various electronic devices for indicator purposes. In the video, the LED is used to provide visual feedback during the programming process of the remote control receiver, indicating its status or mode.

💡Buck Regulator

A buck regulator is a type of step-down voltage regulator that reduces the input voltage to a lower output voltage. It is used in electronic circuits to provide a stable voltage supply. In the video, the buck regulator is part of the remote control receiver's internal circuitry, ensuring that the components receive the correct voltage levels for proper operation.

💡Reverse Engineering

Reverse engineering is the process of deconstructing a product or system to understand its working principles and to analyze and improve its design. In the video, the presenter reverse engineers the remote control receiver to understand its internal components and how they function together.

💡Schematic

A schematic is a representation of the components and connections in an electrical circuit. It is a visual diagram that shows how different parts of a system are connected and how they interact with each other. In the video, the presenter refers to a schematic to explain the remote control receiver's circuitry and its operation.

💡Microcontroller

A microcontroller is a small computer on a single integrated circuit chip that contains a processor, memory, and programmable input/output peripherals. It is used to control and manage the functions of electronic devices. In the video, the microcontroller is the brain of the remote control receiver, processing the signals received from the remote and controlling the relay accordingly.

💡Back EMF

Back EMF, or Electromotive Force, is the voltage generated by an inductor when the current through it changes. It acts in the opposite direction to the applied voltage, reducing the rate of change of the current. In the context of the video, a back EMF diode is used across the relay to protect the circuit from voltage spikes when the relay switches off.

💡Power Supply

A power supply is a device or system that provides electrical energy to an electrical load. It converts raw electrical energy from a power source into a specific format required by the load. In the video, the power supply section of the remote control receiver is responsible for generating the necessary voltages for the relay and other components to operate.

Highlights

The remote control receiver is described as operating at 433 MHz, a common frequency for remote controls.

The receiver is capable of handling high current for working mods or household appliances.

Internally, the receiver features a 30 amp relay, though the actual specifications are uncertain due to its Chinese labeling.

The receiver has a built-in picture of its internal components, showcasing the large relay.

Safety precautions are advised when handling the receiver due to a buck regulator and potentially live antenna.

The receiver offers four modes of operation: momentary action, toggle on/off, two-button on/off, and single button time delays.

Programming the receiver is straightforward, with different button presses for each mode and functionality.

The receiver can be used to automate and add extra switches around the house, providing便利性 without the need for Wi-Fi connectivity.

Disassembling the receiver reveals its components, including a big relay, capacitors, a power supply chip, and a remote control decoder chip.

The receiver's design includes a PN 8015 chip, which simplifies the power supply circuitry.

The receiver's circuitry is adaptable for high current applications, though it may require some upgrades.

The receiver's schematic includes a power supply section that generates a 12V supply and a receiver circuit that straightforwardly controls the relay.

The relay is rated for 12V DC, 30A, and 240V AC, though its actual reliability at the 30A mark is uncertain.

The receiver can be potentially adapted to operate at 12V DC by making certain modifications to the circuit.

The receiver comes pre-programmed with different codes, reducing the likelihood of code conflicts in populated areas.

The receiver is a hackable base for those interested in DIY projects or home automation.

Despite its interesting features and potential for home automation, the user admits they can't think of a use for it.