Thread: Need prop timer ASAP, HELP!

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Hi all, I have a couple of old school props using washing machine valves for air, I need some timers cheep and fast that will set the prop on and off immediately and then wait for 30 seconds to 2 minutes and then go on and off again (time delay relay).
most of the timers I have seen go on for a set time and have to stay off for a set time, usually minutes at a time, but I need the valve to open and then close wait the time and then open and close again
I cant spend a fortune either I checked with grainger and they are $54

I don't know if you have ever built any circuits, but a 555 astable circuit should be able to do just what you want. There are many websites out there that can show you how to build them and if you use a breadboard, you can hook one up in a matter of minutes. here is a link to a site showing how one is built.
http://ecelab.com/circuit-astable-555.htm
Also do a search on 555 calculators and you will relatively easily be able to build a timer to what ever specifications you want.

If you or a friend can solder, there's a Velleman kit that does what Home Haunter is talking about. The advantage of using the kit is that it's all worked out for you. Here's a link to the description on Velleman's page: http://www.vellemanusa.com/products/view/?id=350686 These are under ten dollars each, just search Google for "Velleman MK111". One timer will control one prop.

It allows you to set two times: How long to wait before triggering the prop, and how long to trigger the prop. If it was a fogger, you could set it wait a minute, run for five seconds, then wait a minute...and so on. In your case you'll have to see what works for your props.

One thing to remember with this type of controller is it will always be exactly the same - it will wait the same amount of time, then run the same amount of time. Also, check the voltage of the props you're triggering and make sure the relay they supply will handle it.

Just noticed something...this timer is also sold assembled. It costs more but it's still much less than what you saw at Grainger. Look for the Velleman VM136. Here's a link to one store: http://www.arcade-electronics.com/detail.aspx?ID=27133

Assembled at this website, it's $15.31; as a kit, it's $4.62.