Hey everyone — I’ve been following this space for a while, and I appreciate how seriously this community takes open-source hardware and data integrity.
A little bit about where I’m coming from: I work in electrical services (based in Dubai), doing everything from wiring and load-panel setups to integrating more advanced systems (like small-scale generation or monitoring). While I don’t work directly on air quality monitors, I’ve been thinking a lot about how electrical design influences sensor deployment reliability — especially for long-term, real-time monitoring networks.
Here are a few thoughts I’ve noticed when people set up monitoring systems (or similar electronics) in homes or light industrial settings:
- Reliable Power & Grounding: For consistent data from sensors, stable power is essential. Poor grounding or fluctuating voltage can introduce noise or even damage electronics.
- Cable Management: Run dedicated conduits / clean paths for your sensor wiring to reduce EMI (electromagnetic interference). That helps keep readings stable.
- Backup Power: In places where power cuts are possible, having UPS (uninterruptible power supply) or small battery backup for critical sensors means you don’t lose data mid-outage.
- Proper Junction Boxes: Use sealed or weather-resistant junctions if you’re putting air quality sensors outdoors or on external walls — it protects electronics when exposed to heat or humidity.
- Modular Design: If you’re building a custom setup, leave room (in your panel or enclosure) for future expansion — extra breakers or thin-wire slots for adding more sensors later.
Would love to hear how other people here on the forum have handled the electrical setup for their AirGradient or DIY sensor networks. What’s worked? What pitfalls have you run into?