Sensor Device: DHT22

Power Source: 3x Asda Alkaline AA

Antenna: 8.2cm of wire connected to Antenna Pad

Code: github.com/UKHASnet/UKHASnet_Firmware/arduino_sensor

In this setup the node could be configured to transmit Temperature, Humidity and Battery Voltage every couple of minutes. Due to the powersaving used on the Microcontroller and Radio, as well as the switching of the DHT22 Supply, the expected battery life would be around 9 months.

Power Source: 1x LiPO charged by Solar Panel

Antenna: SMA Dipole

Code: github.com/UKHASnet/UKHASnet_Firmware/arduino_repeater

In this setup the node is configured to listen, repeating other nodes that are heard and helping extend the network.

In addition the UART output could be enabled to allow an IP-connected device to upload packets to ukhas.net

Accurate Temperature Sensor

Datasheet: DS18B20

Cheap Humidity and Temperature Sensor

Datasheet: DHT22

This is the cheapest and will work well for sensors where the average current draw is tiny, and so no recharging will be required.

This is the cheapest rechargeable solution. Research into easy methods of trickle charging Ni-MH is currently underway.

If you're confined on space, LiPOs can give you the best energy density. Cells with protection circuits should always be used. You can charge these crudely from 5V solar panels using the very cheap USB LiPO chargers on ebay, however this doesn't appear to work well in winter.

The PCB has an SMA footprint with a plated through-hole, allowing a variety of options.

This is the cheapest and easiest by far. Solder one end of the wire onto the center pad of the SMA footprint, then bend it vertically and cut so that you have a length of 8.2cm from the PCB surface.

The more exact the length, the better. Ideally you'd want to check it with an antenna analyser, however very few people own one suitable for 869 MHz.

This antenna does rely on a ground-plane. The PCB appears to perform this function adequately. You can extend the PCB using wires from the four corner Ground Pads.

By soldering on an SMA socket, you can then purchase a factory-tuned version of the 1/4 wave wire whip. This is guaranteed to be the correct length and comes cased in plastic for durability.

This antenna does rely on a ground plane and if not mounted directly to the PCB, one should be provided.

eg. RF Solutions 869 MHz 1/4 wave Antenna

This also requires an SMA socket. The dipole is a lot more efficient than the 1/4 wave and does not rely on a ground-plane.

It is also a lot longer and may need additional mechanical support!

eg. RF Solutions 869 MHz Dipole Antenna

1x 28DIP ATMega328P

• Farnell 1715487 - £2.37 each

1x RFM69[H]W

• HAB Supplies (max 20mW) - £3.59 each
• HopeRF (100mW) - € 3,22 each

1x TO-92 MCP1700 3.3V LDO

• Farnell 1296588 - £0.26 each

5x 100nF 50V Cap

• Farnell 2309020 - £0.029 each

1/4W Through-Hole Resistors

• 1x 1M
• 1x 4.7M
• 1x 10K
• 1x 4.7K (Required for DS18B20/DHT22)

1x 6-pin ICSP Header

• Farnell 1248132 - £0.253 each (MOQ: 10)

1x 28-pin DIP Socket (Optional)