Collection Schematic

These circuits are intended for remote monitoring of the current consumption on the domestic mains line.



The circuit in Fig. I lights the signal lamp upon detecting a mains current consumption of more than 5 mA, and handles currents of several amperes with appropriate diodes fitted in the D, and D2 positions. Transistor Ti is switched on when the drop  across D,-D2 exceeds a certain level. Diodes from  the well-known I N400x series can be used for currents of up to I A, while lN540x types are rated for up to 3 A. Fuse F, should, of course, be dimensioned to suit the particular application.

A number of possible transistor types have been stated for use in the Ti position. Should you consider using a type not listed, be sure that it can cope with surges up to 700 V. As long as Ti does not con- duct, the gate of the triac is at mains potential via  C,, protective resistor R2 and diode Da, which  keeps C, charged. When Ti conducts, alternating current can flow through the capacitor, and the triac is triggered, so that Lai lights.

The circuit in Fig. 2 is a current triggered alarm. Rectifier bridge D4-D7 can only provide the coil voltage for Re, when the current through Di-D2 exceeds a certain level, because then series capacitor C, passes the alternating mains current. Capacitor C, may need to be dimensioned otherwise than shown to suit the sensitivity of the relay coil. This is readily effected by connecting capacitors in parallel until the coil voltage is high enough for the relay to operate reliably.

Finally, an important point: Many points in these circuits are at mains potential and therefore extremely dangerous to touch.