Group Actions
Engagement
  • Author Author: colporteur
  • Date Created: Date Created
  • Views 1866 views
  • Likes 8 likes
  • Comments 13 comments
Related
Recommended

Blog 6: Now for some initial data

colporteur

With the python library, misaz shared in his blog post, I can continue with my challenge testing.  My initial tests of the sensor are using the locomotive on the bench. I have been using 3VDC, 5VDC and 12VDC to set some expectations before moving to the rail tests.

I still try and follow the process my electronics lab college instructor tried to instill in us 40 years ago. Have some idea of what the measurement should be, before you go poking around with testing equipment making measurements. I had no success getting current measurements using my Fluke VOM so I only have what the sensor is providing.

The python script generates a current & voltage reading every five seconds. The initial voltage applied to the locomotive motor is 5VDC, then changes (highlite) to 3VDC and then to 12VDC.

image

My question to the sharper electronic knives in the drawer than me is, do the current values look reasonable?

The current reading moves between.05 to .09, the average, throwing out the negative values in the calculation, is .06. I was expecting higher current values at the higher voltages. What I interpret from the current reading is a motor that is an active load where the resistance changes to ensure a steady current. That doesn't seem correct?

The motor speed does change with a change in the voltage.

I confess there is a lot of rust and dust accumulated on my electronic theory. Part of my motivation for doing these challenges is to refresh my knowledge. I would appreciate any feedback members have to offer before proceeding with further testing. What do you see in the values so far?

Parents

  • Earlier today I was reading blog#2.  Back then you were concerned that you were in over your head.  I am so glad pushed ahead.  I had some frustration and self doubt during my road tests so I can totally relate.  Things seem to be progressing now, and hey, you have the ability to read data, but best of all, you are learning new things and solving problems as they emerge, and there in lies the real reward.

Comment

  • Earlier today I was reading blog#2.  Back then you were concerned that you were in over your head.  I am so glad pushed ahead.  I had some frustration and self doubt during my road tests so I can totally relate.  Things seem to be progressing now, and hey, you have the ability to read data, but best of all, you are learning new things and solving problems as they emerge, and there in lies the real reward.

Children