MuTech RoboticsLearning Hub
Kids OK with adultArduino NanoLevel 1/3

Automatic Street Light

An LDR senses dusk and a MOSFET switches a 12V LED lamp on, then off again at sunrise, with no flicker.

Automatic Street Light
Kids OK, with an adult

DIY project. Children must build this only with an adult (16+ years) beside them at all times. Not suitable for children under 8 years.

Strictly follow the description given with this video.

Video

The video link will be added here soon.

How it works

  1. The LDR module's AO reading falls as it gets dark.
  2. Below the DARK level the Nano switches the lamp on.
  3. Above a higher BRIGHT level it switches off; two levels stop flicker at dusk.
  4. The MOSFET switches the 12V lamp; the Nano runs from the same 12V through VIN.

Parts you need

  • Arduino Nano× 1Buy
  • LDR module× 1Buy
  • MOSFET module× 1Buy
  • 12V LED flood lamp× 1Buy
  • 12V adapter× 1Buy
Kit for this projectPrice on request
Get the kit

Wiring

Wiring diagram
PowerGroundSignal
#FromConnect to
1 SignalLDR AONano A0
2 PowerLDR VCCNano 5V
3 GroundLDR GNDNano GND
4 SignalMOSFET SIGNano D9
5 GroundMOSFET GNDNano GND
6 PowerMOSFET IN+12V rail
7 GroundMOSFET IN−GND rail
8 PowerMOSFET OUT+ / OUT−Lamp + / −
9 Power12V adapter12V rail → Nano VIN

3D print files

This project has no 3D-printed parts.

Code

The tested Arduino / ESP32 code for this project will be posted here, ready to copy.