A microprocessor controlled automatic sun tracker

A microprocessor-based automatic sun-tracking system is proposed. This unit controls the movement of a solar panel that rotates and follows the motion of the sun. There are two limit switches attached to the panel to mark its maximum angular positions in the east and west. The status of the limit switches is read by the microprocessor and indicates that the maximum angular position in either direction has been reached and the panel should not be driven any further. As the plane of the panel is always kept normal to the direction of the sun, maximum thermal energy is obtained from the solar panels.< >