Global Radiation Budget Tracker Variant 15
Global Radiation Budget Tracker Variant 15: Build a Dual-Sensor Net Shortwave Radiation Monitor with ESP32
Every part needed, pre-tested for compatibility, with an AI build companion trained on this exact project. Shipped from Bengaluru in 3-5 days.
This kit equips you to assemble a professional-grade solar radiation balance monitor. By positioning two BH1750 luminance sensors—one facing up to capture incoming solar radiation and one facing down to measure reflected radiation from the ground—you compute net shortwave flux. An ESP32 microcontroller logs readings directly to the cloud, making it indispensable for climate research, microclimate analysis in agriculture, and advanced DIY weather stations.
What You'll Build
A field-ready instrument that delivers real-time net radiation data. Housed in a waterproof enclosure and powered by a solar-recharged 18650 battery pack, the device runs autonomously, saves timestamped data to an onboard microSD card, streams to a configurable MQTT broker, and displays key parameters on a crisp OLED screen—all without needing a constant power supply.
What You'll Learn
- Calibrate dual BH1750 sensors for hemispherical shortwave radiation measurement and derive net values
- Implement I2C multiplexing with the TCA9548A to operate multiple identical-sensor devices on a single bus
- Program ESP32 to synchronize data with a DS3231 real-time clock and write structured logs to SD
- Design a solar-powered IoT system integrating an LM2596 buck converter and TP4056 Li-ion charging module
Kit Contents
| Component | Quantity |
|---|---|
| ESP32 Dev Board | 1 |
| BH1750 | 2 |
| TCA9548A I2C Mux | 1 |
| DS3231 RTC | 1 |
| MicroSD Module | 1 |
| LM2596 Buck Converter | 1 |
| 0.96in OLED | 1 |
| 4.7kΩ Resistors | 10 |
| 100nF Caps | 10 |
| Solar Panel 6V 2W | 1 |
| TP4056 Module | 1 |
| 18650 Cell | 2 |
| Waterproof Enclosure | 1 |
| PCB Prototype Board | 2 |
| Soldering Iron | 1 |
| Solder Wire | 1 |
Why Buy This Kit Instead of Sourcing Parts Separately
| Factor | Sourcing Separately | Compoden Kit |
|---|---|---|
| Compatibility checks | You verify every part | Pre-tested as a system |
| Build support | Forums and scattered tutorials | AI companion trained on this exact project |
| Time to first working build | Days of debugging | Hours, with step-by-step guidance |
| Shipping coordination | Multiple sellers, multiple delays | One shipment from Bengaluru in 3-5 days |
Who This Kit Is For
This kit suits postgraduate environmental science researchers, B.Tech ECE/EEE students developing IoT-based solar radiation analyzers, and Smart India Hackathon teams focused on climate sensor solutions. It’s also ideal for amateur meteorologists and agricultural technologists deploying custom weather stations tailored to India’s diverse microclimates.
Built and Backed by Compoden
Every Compoden kit ships with an AI build companion trained on this exact project — accessible via a QR code on the box, with WhatsApp and email backup. We've spent 10 years building projects for makers, schools, and institutions across India. If a part fails because of a manufacturing defect, replace it free within 7 days.
What if I get stuck during the build?
Our AI companion, trained on this exact Global Radiation Budget Tracker build, provides step-by-step wiring and code help. If needed, you can also connect via WhatsApp for real-time human support.
How do I calibrate the two BH1750 sensors for accurate net radiation?
The AI companion includes calibration routines and correction factors for upward vs. downward sensor orientation. It also explains how to verify readings against a reference pyranometer if available.
Can this kit withstand outdoor deployment in monsoon conditions?
The waterproof enclosure protects electronics from rain and dust, and the solar panel is weather-sealed. We recommend additional desiccant packs for long-term high-humidity environments.
Which cloud platform does the ESP32 connect to?
The default firmware uses MQTT to send data to any broker you configure (e.g., ThingsBoard, AWS IoT, or a private server). The AI companion provides setup guides for popular platforms.
Two BH1750 sensors face up and down to compute net shortwave radiation balance. ESP32 logs to cloud.
What's in this kit
Choose your assembly option:
- Soldering Kit — 25W soldering iron, 60/40 solder wire, flux, and small perfboard for permanent assembly.
- Breadboard Combo — 800-point full-size breadboard with 65-piece jumper wire pack for solderless prototyping.
Shipping Information
- Prepaid Orders: ₹75 for orders up to ₹999, FREE shipping above ₹999
- COD Orders: ₹125 shipping + ₹50 COD fee = ₹175 total
- Delivery Timeline: Dispatch in 1-2 days, delivery in 2-7 days depending on location
Returns & Warranty
- 7-Day Return: Manufacturing defects only (approval required)
- Warranty: 7 days from delivery
- Non-Returnable: Batteries, consumables, cut wires, clearance items