Plug Outlets:
Here we have one of the more important components of this build. It is important that this $.59 component is the correct version of it or you will seriously limit your ability to do this build. When looking for the plug outlets you will use for this build it is critical that you find one that has break off tabs on the sides of it to separate the top and bottom receptacles. We will only do this to the Hot (black wire) side of the outlet as we will chain the neutral (white wire) between outlets.
Project Box:
For the project box we actually found a plastic electrical box at our local home improvement center. These are often used in applications where you need a electrical junction of some type in a outdoor application that is weatherproofed. These boxes are all weather proofed and have a nice seal. They will set you back about 25.00 but I love the heavy duty design so for me it’s worth it.
Solid State Relays:
Solid State Relays have become one of my new favorite components. These relays are extremely fast switching, highly reliable, rugged and even opto-isolated to protect your circuit should you accidently get your wires crossed. If you buy these stateside you will pay up to about 50.00 each! But if you buy them on ebay, and if you can wait a couple weeks you can get them for about 10.00 with free shipping directly from china. Now can you use regular mechanical relays? Of course, but I found in early testing they would break after a couple days of heavy use…
Wire:
Fairly simple component, but its good to be crystal clear about it I guess. You will want to use a 14Ga solid copper wire for this project. Stranded wire will not work safely so don’t use it. I also recommend using the appropriately colored wires to keep everything straight.
