A low-rate flashing light deters unwanted wildlife
Automatic activation and deactivation
Circuit diagram
Components:
- R1 100K 1/4W Resistor
- R2 2M2 1/4W Resistor
- R3 10K 1/4W Resistor (see Remarks)
- R4 4K7 1/4W Resistor
- R5 Photoresistor (any variety, see Remarks)
- C1, C2, C3 47µF 25V Electrolytic Capacitors
- D1 1N4148 75V 150mA Diode
- IC1 7555 or TS555CN CMOS Timer IC
- Q1 BD681 100V 4A NPN Darlington Transistor
- LP1 6V 3W Lamp (see Remarks)
- SW1 SPST Switch
- B1 6V 1.2A Lead-acid Sealed Rechargeable Battery (see Remarks)
Device Purpose:
This circuit has proven exceptionally helpful in discouraging bats and other nocturnal animals from appearing on a terrace or veranda. It can be utilized for similar or diverse applications. The light activates after a 4-5 second delay and remains inactive for approximately one minute and fifteen seconds. The photoresistor enables automatic activation of the circuit at dusk and deactivation at dawn. Assuming an eight-hour operational period nightly, the light remains illuminated for roughly 30 minutes, contributing significantly to energy conservation.
Circuit Operation:
IC1 is configured as an astable multivibrator, achieving on and off time delays as previously explained. R1 and C1 determine the on time-delay, while R2 and C1 establish the off time-delay. Given the absence of critical parameters, these delays can be adjusted to your preferences. Q1 serves as the lamp driver and is capable of powering substantial lamps. C2 mitigates brief instability that may occur when the voltage at pin 4 of IC1 approaches the switching threshold.
Remarks:
- Position the photoresistor's sensitive surface at a 90-degree angle or greater relative to the lamp, to avoid light interference.
- Due to the photoresistor's particular type or to satisfy your specific requirements, R3 can be modified to set the operating threshold.
- If automatic activation and deactivation are not desired, remove R3 and R5, and connect pin 4 of IC1 to the positive supply.
- The lamp can be any 6V type up to 10-12W, although a 3W model represents an excellent compromise.
- Batteries can be of the rechargeable type: lead acid sealed, NI-CD, NI-MH packages spanning from 3.6 to 12V, ensuring appropriate lamps are provided.
- Employing 1.2 Ampere-hour batteries, recharging should be performed approximately weekly or less.
- Naturally, the circuit can be permanently powered using a suitable mains power supply.