Hi everyone. I have been using this DIY controller for almost a year, so I think it's good to share this project here.
It's a JBC controller that can work with all JBC irons like T245, T210, etc and it also works with the JBC tweezers too! There are two independent controls for each tweezers tip.
I found it over Github:
https://github.com/PaulusSmallus/JBC-Soldering-ControllerForked from here:
https://github.com/timothyjager/JBC-Soldering-ControllerI like it because it was open source and the code could be easily modified. So I decided to make my own PCB design and to test it. I did the first PCB design and it works. Then I asked a friend to help me with the code since I'm not able to do that. I'm not a code writer
After some mods over the code, the whole unit works much better now. Here are some files showing how it looks + a modified schematics and the current code.
Sine, I think this project could be modified making it better, I'm asking for your help. Here are some disadvantages to the current hardware/software:
1. You can't connect both irons. Only one iron must be connected at the same time. It's better to improve this making the controller to be able to switch between 2 or 3 irons. I think two irons with a single tip and one tweezer will be the best DIY controller ever! This modification requires two more PWM controllers + temperature ADCs + 3 sleep outputs. Maybe a bigger micro?
2. When tweezers are used, the heaters must be heated sequentially to prevent high peak currents from the supply. Now, this function works, but it heats one of the heaters quicker than the other one. Check Tweezers PWM.png
3. The controller shows the set temperature but I think it must switch quickly between the set and the current temperature like most iron controllers.
4. When the controller is sleeping - it's in the stand, modifying the temperature doesn't affect on the iron when it's taken off the stand. I need to take off the iron from the stand first and then to modify the temperature.
5. Maybe a bigger screen?
6. EEPROM for storing the last temperature set.
If there are enthusiasts with good code experience who want to help with this project I will be thankful. I can do a good PCB design and eventually a sheet metal housing for the entire project.
I have a couple spare PCBs. If someone has an interest in this project, they can drop me a message.
JBC 3D.PDF is a 3d PDF file. You can open it with acrobat reader only I believe.
Best Regards,
Niki