Digital Logic Design

Semester Project
Soil Moisture Indicator

SUBMITTED BY:
Zarar Azeem (2022-MC-06)
Muhammad Abu Bakar Khan (2022-MC-10)
Hashir Toheed (2022-MC-12)
SUBMITTED TO:
Dr. Muhammad Ahsan Naeem

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Mechatronics and Control Engineering Department
University of Engineering and Technology, Lahore.
Contents:
 Introduction
 Literature review
 Components
 PCB Layout
 Methodology
 Implementations
 Results
 References
Introduction
A soil moisture indicator is a device or tool used to measure the amount of moisture
present in the soil. It helps determine whether the soil is too dry or too wet,
providing valuable information for agricultural purposes, gardening, and water
management. These indicators can use various technologies, such as sensors or
probes, to assess the moisture content in the soil. By monitoring soil moisture levels,
farmers and gardeners can optimize irrigation schedules, leading to more efficient
water usage and healthier plants.

Literature Review
Soil moisture is a critical factor in agriculture, affecting crop growth, water usage
efficiency, and overall ecosystem health. Traditional methods of assessing soil
moisture, such as gravimetric and tensiometric measurements, have limitations in
terms of spatial and temporal resolution. As a result, there has been a growing
interest in developing and improving soil moisture indicators to address these
challenges.

Existing Technologies: Several technologies have been employed to measure soil

moisture. Electrical resistance sensors, such as gypsum blocks, have been widely
used. However, they can be affected by soil salinity and may not provide accurate
readings in certain soil types. TDR (Time Domain Reflectometry) and capacitance
sensors offer better accuracy and are less sensitive to soil properties, but they may be
costlier.

Emerging Sensor Technologies: Recent advancements in sensor technologies have

led to the development of wireless sensor networks for real-time monitoring of soil
moisture. These networks enable remote data collection and analysis, providing
valuable insights into soil moisture dynamics across large areas. Additionally, satellite
and remote sensing technologies have been integrated to assess soil moisture at a
broader scale.

Components
Following components are used:

LEDs
Resistors
5.6k ohm resistor
A 5.6k ohm resistor is a specific type of resistor with a resistance value of 5.6
kilo ohms, or 5600 ohms. Resistors are electronic components that limit the
flow of electric current in a circuit. The resistance is measured in ohms
(symbol: Ω

Fig.1
 2.2k ohm resistor
A 2.2k ohm resistor, with a resistance value of 2.2 kilo ohms (or 2200 ohms),
can be used in various electronic circuits for different purpose.

Fig.2

 1.2k ohm resistor

A 1.2k ohm resistor, with a resistance value of 1.2 kilo ohms (or 1200 ohms),
can be utilized in various electronic circuits for different purposes

Fig.3
  12k ohm resistor

A 12k ohm resistor, with a resistance value of 12 kilo ohms (or 12,000 ohms),
can be employed in various electronic circuits for different purposes

Fig.4
 100-ohm resistor

A 100-ohm resistor, with a resistance value of 100 ohms, can be employed in

various electronic circuits for different purposes A 100-ohm resistor can be
used to limit the current flowing through a specific part of the circuit. This is
particularly important in protecting components such as LEDs or transistors
from excessive current.

Fig.5

LM3915 IC
The LM3914 is a versatile analog display driver IC (Integrated Circuit) designed to
drive a series of LED bar graph displays or other displays composed of discrete LEDs.
It's commonly used for creating analog-style visual indicators in electronic circuits.
Here are some typical uses of the LM3914:

Voltage Level Indicator:

One of the most common applications is as a voltage level indicator. It can display
the level of an input voltage using a series of LEDs. Each LED represents a specific
voltage range, providing a visual indication of the input voltage level.

Audio Level Meter:

The LM3914 can be used to build audio level meters for amplifiers or audio systems.
It converts the audio signal into a visual representation, allowing users to monitor the
intensity of the audio signal.
Battery Level Indicator:

In battery-powered devices, the LM3914 can be employed to create a battery level

indicator. It provides a visual representation of the remaining battery capacity using a
set of LEDs.

Temperature Indicator:

By interfacing the LM3914 with a temperature sensor, you can create a temperature
indicator. The LEDs can represent different temperature ranges, offering a visual
indication of the temperature.

Light Intensity Meter:

The LM3914 can be used to build a light intensity meter. When connected to a light
sensor, it provides a visual display of the ambient light level.

Power Supply Voltage Monitor:

It can be used to monitor the output voltage of a power supply, alerting users if the
voltage deviates from the desired range.

Motor Speed Indicator:

In motor control applications, the LM3914 can be used to indicate the speed or RPM
of a motor.

Charging Indicator:

When charging a device, such as a battery or capacitor, the LM3914 can indicate the
charging progress using LEDs.

The LM3914 operates by comparing an input voltage to an internal voltage reference

and then driving the LEDs based on the input voltage level. The number of LEDs that
light up corresponds to the input voltage level within a specified range.

Fig.6
Zener Diode
Zener diodes are special types of diodes that operate in the reverse-bias direction
and are designed to maintain a constant voltage across their terminals, known as the
Zener voltage.

Fig.7

Potentiometer
A 10k ohm potentiometer, also known as a pot, is a variable resistor with a resistance
of 10,000 ohms. One of the most common uses of a 10k potentiometer is as a
volume control in audio circuits. It allows you to adjust the volume of an amplifier or
audio device.

Fig.8

PCB Board
Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) are essential components in electronic devices,
providing a platform for the assembly and connection of electronic components. The
type of PCB used depends on the specific requirements of the electronic circuit and
the application.
 Fig.9

IC Bed
Use to hold the IC

Fig.10

PCB Layout
Here is the PCB layout;

Fig.11
Fig.12

Fig.13

Fig.14
Methodology
 Project Selection:
Choose a project and define its specifications and requirements.
 Proteus Simulation:
Simulate the project using Proteus or a similar software to verify its
functionality and troubleshoot potential issues before
implementation.
 PCB Layout Design:
Create the PCB layout design using a software tool. Place
components and route traces to ensure proper connections.
 Print on Butter Paper:
Print the PCB layout on a transparency or butter paper. This will be
used as a template for transferring the design onto the PCB.
 Transfer Design to PCB Board:
Use the printed template to transfer the design onto the PCB
board. This may involve methods like toner transfer or photoresist
methods.
 Drilling:
Drill holes in the PCB board at locations where components will be
mounted.
 Component Assembly:
Gather all the necessary components for the project and assemble
them on the PCB board according to the design.
 Check for Short Circuits:
Use a voltmeter to check for any short circuits on the PCB. Identify
and rectify any unintended connections.
 Soldering:
Solder all the connections between components and onto the PCB.
Ensure secure and clean solder joints.
 Check for Short Circuits Again:
After soldering, recheck for short circuits using a voltmeter to
confirm that soldering has not inadvertently created unwanted
connections.
  Power Supply Connection:
Connect the power supply to the circuit. Ensure correct polarity
and voltage levels.
 Testing:
Test the circuit to ensure that it functions as intended. Check for
any unexpected behaviour or issues .

Implementations
Here is the implemented circuit:

Fig.15

Fig.16

Result
This project specifies the amount of the moisture in the soil successfully.
 Fig.17

References
https://youtu.be/NUO_ff9QLrA?si=W_snurbFFFZhmh5z
https://youtu.be/iBUy-rWBOq4?si=95C9S9eWCoduxNXJ

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