Mark likes his martinis dry, but never his Christmas trees. To avoid his tree turning into kindling prematurely, he created an automatic watering device that keeps it fresh and helps it last longer. His system pumps water from a 1-gal reservoir via a pump powered by a 12V dc power supply. Level sensors maintain the water level and provide overflow control. To avoid the risk of soggy Christmas presents, he suggests testing the system for water leaks in advance of use.
For Mark McCuller's complete instructions on how to build your own Electronic Christmas Tree Watering System, click here.
Electronic Christmas Tree Watering System Parts List
Amt
Part Description
Allied Part #
1
Quad 2 input and gate
568-3237
1
1N4148 diode
263-1538
1
Relay DK1A-5V
788-0085
1
2N2222 transistors NPN
248-1004
1
Resistors 1K Ħ, 0.5W
832-9016
1
Protoboard 0.1?~ 0.1 inch spacing
237-0119
1
Power supply +12V dc and +5Vdc
800-8071
3
Level sensor switch
908-1180
1
Dip socket 14-pin
512-4681
8
Terminal block PCB mount
607-7155
Additional parts required: Automotive windshield water pump, plastic 1-gal reservoir, 12-ft plastic tubing, assorted bolts and nuts, metal supports for sensors, Styrofoam flat (1.5-inch balls), cable (see website for complete specs)
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