STC-1000+ One vessel brew system controller for Grainfather

[Will_D]

Just an update on the OVBSC controller for the grainfather:

Flashed up a couple of STC-1000s and did some dry runs (no mains no boiler, then: mains but no boiler) and things are looking good. Hopefully tomorow will see the first wet run (single element - no pump)

Can't wait to get my hands on one !!

[johnrm]

Is this pretty much a straight swap?

[Garry]

I split this topic out of geterbrewed's shop thread and moved it here to equipment. It deserves it's own thread.

[Simon_]

As I couldn't come out to Fowlers I was trying the same.
Uploaded the sketch to the Uno fine but then couldn't get the STC1000 detected


Would imagine it might have something to do with my soldering skills.


Tried to solder to a pin header and hold it against the programming pins demonstrated in this video

Any soldering tips? I think I'm going to try find a female pin header connector and avoid soldering altogether

[Will_D]

I have always soldered wires to the back of the board (as in my original photo)

Yesterday tried with the header pins just pressed on the pads.

Notes:

1. The board has been dipped in a protective laquer - this needs to removed from the 5 pads. Use a small file or a piece of the wifes emery board (finger nail file stuff)

2. Press the pins onto the pad at an angle of about 20 degrees this tries to ensure all 5 pins connect!

3. The main problem is that the COM4 port wants to drop out at a moments notice!
    So the trick is

Load the software into the Arduino - no STC.

Disconnect the Arduino, shut down the IDE, restart the IDE, NB. Arduino NOT conected to computer!

Press the header onto the pads and hold with left hand. With other hand plug in the USB connector. Does the STC light up?

No lights mean either its been corupted (ie code overwritten with partial code) or its not getting power. Check wiring!

If its lit and showing the temperature then try sending the d command!

If that works try the upload.

You should hear the buzzing!

If you get a good up-load then job done.

If not try again, note the STC will probably not display anything now until you get a good upload!

[Simon_]

Cheers Will. Had a revision of the old thread.

I think I'd melt the board if I try soldering them directly. I melted the pin header last night 

I'll try the nail file. Might need to get a better soldering iron. This hobby is a bottomless pit

[molc]

Put something behind the point you're soldering to act as a heatsink.

[Simon_]

Like the tine of a fork? Would have to be something slim and pointy wouldn't it?

[molc]

When I'm doing capacitors, I use a pliers so I think any lump if metal will do as long as it's in contact with the pinor the back of it on the board.

[Simon_]

Got this done. Removing the laquer from the pins with a nail file was what made the difference.

Haven't tested it yet but Arduino console said all right things

[Will_D]

Great news Simon!

Flashing the STC is really all or nothing so as long as it powers up and displays the temp it should be fine.

Just need a GF now!