# Slow-Start Power Socket If connecting all your devices at the same time is tripping a circuit breaker, you need a *slow-start power socket*. This device controls a strip of power sockets, enabling them individually one by one with a delay. This way there is a much smaller spike in electricity usage, which helps to avoid tripping the circuit breaker. TODO: image of result ## Overview A microcontroller is powered from a 5V brick (always connected). It controls a set of relays, which in turn enable power to individual power sockets. Upon boot the microcontroller waits a few seconds before enabling each of the power sockets. Then it sits idly by until the next power outage. All of this is enclosed in an electrical distribution box. Optionally a speaker is used to indicate the state of the power socket "boot" process. A circuit breaker may be added to guard the whole device from tripping the main circuit breaker in the building. ## Bill of Materials - microcontroller (MCU, Arduino) - multi-relay module board - 5V power brick (to power the MCU and relays) - socket for the power brick - electrical distribution box (safe housing for the whole device) - power socket modules suitable for the distribution box - corded power plug (for connecting the whole device to electricity) - cables suitable for electrical wiring - speaker (optional) - circuit breaker module (optional) TODO: image of internals