Producing a multi-output cycle timer

teddyc93 over 8 years ago

Hello,

I'm currently undertaking an experiment which requires the use of multiple water pumps operating in a cycle.

the cycle would be as follows:

Pump A is turned on and runs for 10 minutes

Pump A is switched off and Pump B is simultaneaously switched on

Pump B then runs for 10 minutes

Pump B is switched off and Pump A is simultaneously switched on

etc.

I was wondering if there is a device/ method for controling this cycle i.e. ensuring that the pumps are turned on and off on time. I was contemplating having multiple socket timers, but these lack the neccessary accuracy and risk the pumps opertaing at the same time.

My knowledge of electronics is coarse, so please keep explanations relatively simple.

Here is a link to the pumps I will be operating:

http://charterhouse-aquatics.com/shop/aquatics/aquarium-pumps/eheim-universal/eheim-1046-universal-pump-300-ltrhr?gclid=CjwKEAiAwfzDBRCRmJe7z_7h8yQSJAC4corO4NqJdccyt7SAPAyluOJckqGn4zjMj13dtyO3ATQCphoCFXfw_wcB

http://charterhouse-aquatics.com/shop/aquatics/aquarium-pumps/eheim-compact/eheim-compact-600-pump-150-600-ltrhr

Here is a link to an operating system that will do this job, but is unaffordable, given my current budget:

NI 9481 - National Instruments

Any help would be much appreciated,

Thanks,