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.

Bill of Materials

• microcontroller (Arduino)
• multi-relay module
• 5V power brick
• electrical distribution box
• power sockets modules for the distribution box
• corded power plug
• cables suitable for electrical wiring
• speaker (optional)
• circuit breaker (optional)

TODO: image of internals