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SETUP_GUIDE.md

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SolarLeaf Setup Guide

Estimated Build Time: 2-3 hours
Difficulty: Intermediate
Tools Required: Soldering iron, wire strippers, 3D printer, multimeter

1. Component Preparation

PCB Assembly:

graph LR
    A[Arduino Pro Mini] --> B[Install Headers]
    B --> C[Solder Voltage Regulator]
    C --> D[Connect MOSFET Gate to Pin 7]
Loading

Sensor Wiring:

Sensor Arduino Pin Connection Notes
DHT22 D8 4.7kΩ pull-up resistor
Light Sensor A0 Voltage divider circuit
Rain Sensor A1 No pull-up needed
Display SPI Pins CS=40, DC=38, RESET=41

2. Mechanical Assembly

Enclosure Steps:

  1. Print Parts:

    • Use PETG filament (0.2mm layer height)
    • Print orientation: Base flat, sensor mounts vertical

  2. Sensor Mounting:

    graph TB
    A[Main Enclosure] --> B[Insert DHT22 through side vent]
    A --> C[Glue light sensor to top dome]
    A --> D[Attach rain sensor bracket at 30° angle]
    Loading

  3. Weatherproofing:

    • Apply silicone sealant around display edges
    • Install PG7 cable gland for solar panel wires
    • Add desiccant packet inside enclosure

3. Electrical Connections

Power System Wiring:

Solar Panel (+) → Diode → TP4056 IN+
TP4056 OUT+ → Battery + 
TP4056 OUT- → Battery -
Battery + → AP2112 IN
AP2112 OUT (3.3V) → Arduino VCC

Critical Checks:

  1. Verify 3.3V output before connecting Arduino
  2. Test MOSFET switching (Pin 7 HIGH = 3.3V at sensor VCC)
  3. Confirm battery protection circuit triggers at 3.0V

4. Firmware Upload

  1. Install Libraries:

    cd firmware/libraries
git clone https://github.com/rocketscream/Low-Power.git

  2. Upload Sketch:

    • Select board: "Arduino Pro or Pro Mini"
    • Processor: "ATmega328P (3.3V, 8MHz)"
    • Port: [Your COM port]
    • Upload SolarLeaf.ino

5. First Boot Test

Expected Behavior:

  1. Red LED on TP4056 blinks during charging
  2. Press button: Display shows readings for 30s
  3. After 30s: Display turns off (sleep mode)

Troubleshooting: See FAQ.md if no display appears