User interface
To communicate with a human user there is a 4×20 LCD display that is controlled via I2C in order to save some I/O pins. There are quite a few external components needed to run it at 3.3 volts so it has its own PCB and connects via a 5-pole wire. There is 3.3 volts and ground for power, SCL and SCD for I2C communication and a PWM singal in order to control the display brightness. Because that’s a rather universal board I will document that as a seperate post.
As an input device there’s a rotary encoder with push button. Together with the display (and some decent software) that should allow for a pleasant user experience.
The inputs from the encoder are debounced in hardware via a 74HC126 that serves a double purpose. With its 3-state outputs it allows us to use the pins that are otherwise used for in-circuit programming of the PIC.
Both the rotary encoder (except the push button) and the entire display unit can be powered off when not in use. The push button is always powered on so the user can wake up the user interface at any time by pressing the button. When the user interface is not actively powered on the 74HC126’s outputs are in high-impedance mode and the PIC can be programmed without being affected by the rotary encoder.
Data logging
One might be interested how much energy has been harvested by the solar charger over the last hours, days, weeks or months. So there’s some non-volatile storage as well. The 24FC256 connects via I2C and offers 256kBit of memory. It consumes only 100nA in standby so it can stay powered on at all times.
Fan control
As mentioned, there’s a temperature sensor on the board. If it gets too hot, a fan can be powered on via the FAN_ON signal controlling an n-channel mosfet.
