A Flexible Temperature and Environmental Controller

Abstract A means to stabilize ambient system conditions through use of a low-cost (US$ 100 in this study) electrical controller is presented. The controller is suitable for both temperature and other electrical control such as lighting and circulation pumps. Implementation requires only a dedicated controller–computer and choice of appropriate electrical relays and various sensors. Temperature fluctuations of less than 0.3°C have been established over any 15° interval in the range of 2 to 38°C. Application has been in the experimental laboratory initially but the system can be used to rear fishes or other organisms in larger containers such as stock tanks.