Yep - Another DIY STC-1000 Controller Thread...

[banks412]

I know it's been done quite a few times, but I also know that for those folks on the fence about having the confidence to build one of their own, sometimes one more DIY is enough to push them over the edge to take the plunge and attempt it for themselves. Thanks to everyone at the forum and to Daniel at www.onemansbeer.com , I felt confident enough to attempt my own build based on his instructions and couldn't be happier with the result. Below are some pics/notes taken during my build....

Partial supply and tool gathering. Also helpful to have a Dremel tool available.
Remember - refer to www.onemansbeer.com for a complete list.

 

[banks412]

So I used the Dremel tool to cut out the outlet holes. I placed the outlet on the backside of the project box cover and traced the outlets with a pencil and then cut them out. It was also helpful to use a few finishing nails to hold the cover in place and keep it from moving while I cut out the holes...

 

[banks412]

Be sure to break the tab that connects the two GOLD posts together (above picture). This will allow the controller to control your heating or cooling element separately. Otherwise, the STC-1000 will turn both elements on and off each time it cycles.

 

[banks412]

Last but not least, my new controller plugged into my 7.0 cubic foot Holiday brand chest freezer. Be sure to give the STC-1000 at least 24 hours to settle out the temp. In other words, don't be too concerned about fluctuations in temp during the initial time it takes to get the freezer cooled down and settled. I watched mine like crazy the first few hours wondering if I'd done it right and was constantly worried it was messed up. After leaving it plugged in for a day or two, it settled right down and kept a constant temp +- a degree or two. Awesome!

 

[banks412]

Sorry I wasn't able to post more 'instructions' on this DIY, but I followed Daniel's instructions to the letter on www.onemansbeer.com and my controller is performing flawlessly. I couldn't be happier with it.

Here's to my next DIY being a little better, and feel free to ask any questions!

-tb

 

[Ramitt]

Nice job. The one thing I have done, that Ihave not seen on other builds is use a 3 blade slot (accepts standard pc power cord) with a fuse slot to be able to plug the power cord.

 

[vogtenstein222]

This is probably one of the most descriptive builds I've seen. I just bought my project box last night, planning to order the controller and buy the outlet and wires this weekend.
Thank you for this!

 

[banks412]

You can do it vogtenstein222! If you need ANY help at all, feel free to PM me!

tb