Convert Your Old Hour Meter to Track Job Time Using Arduino
Convert an Old Hour Meter To Track Your Job Time Using Arduino
Do you need to track the time you spend on jobs for billing or for other reasons? You may be able to use an old hour meter combined with an Arduino microcontroller to do this. Arduino-based hour meters have many advantages, such as being easy to program, highly reliable, and cost-effective.
In this guide, we'll walk you through how to convert an old hour meter into an Arduino-controlled job timer. We'll also explain why this is a great choice for tracking your job timings.
What is an Hour Meter?
An hour meter is a device used to measure the amount of time a machine has been running. In industrial settings, they're often found on engines, pumps, and other machines that require frequent maintenance. The hour meter is connected to the machine and measures the hours it's been in operation.
Why Use an Arduino-Based Hour Meter?
The primary benefit of using an Arduino-based hour meter is that it is relatively simple to program. You can customize the time intervals and settings according to your needs. This makes it much more versatile than a traditional hour meter.
Arduino-based hour meters are also more reliable than mechanical alternatives. They don't rely on winding mechanisms or other components that can wear out over time. As a result, your hour meter will stay accurate for longer.
Finally, an Arduino-controlled hour meter is cost-effective. You don't have to purchase an expensive commercial device. Instead, you can use an existing hour meter and modify it with an Arduino microcontroller.
How To Convert an Old Hour Meter To Track Job Times
To convert an old hour meter to track job times using Arduino, you'll need the following:
- An Arduino microcontroller
- An old hour meter
- Wire and connectors
- Soldering supplies
Once you have all the necessary supplies, you're ready to begin. Here's what you need to do:
- Remove the case from the hour meter. Take note of how the components are wired up.
- Disconnect the wires from the hour meter and solder them to an Arduino microcontroller.
- Download and install the latest version of the Arduino IDE.
- Write a program in the Arduino IDE to control the hour meter. Set the time intervals and other parameters according to your needs.
- Flash the program onto the Arduino microcontroller.
- Reassemble the hour meter with the Arduino microcontroller.
- Attach the hour meter to the machine you wish to track. Ensure that it is securely connected.
- Test the hour meter to make sure it is working properly.
Conclusion
Using an Arduino microcontroller to convert an old hour meter into an automated job timer is a great way to track the amount of time you spend on jobs. It offers flexibility in the time intervals and settings, is highly reliable, and is a cost-effective solution.
Follow the steps outlined in this guide to convert an old hour meter into an Arduino-controlled job timer. Once you've done so, you'll be ready to start tracking your job timings.
