Wanting to learn more about the intricacies of coffee I installed a PID yesterday. It still needs setting up (Steam Alarm and Brew temperature control values) but hopefully this will bring more consistent tasty shots; temperature stability with the addition of having steam control, if it does then the PID was a success(!)
Compared to the Auber (which from research has a detailed fitting guide, pre-set algorithms, fittings and a nice case) the DIY route imo isn't a difficult task and you can get near enough equal results for a fraction of the price.
Price can vary between £20-40 depending on whether you want to include a RTD PT100 sensor and a project box. Or if you don't have the crimps, wire cutters, spanners, thermal paste terminals and wires, dremmel etc already at home.
Wiring Guide
I wrote below is for a REX-C100 which is readily available on ebay. Hopefully this will help if others want to do the same.
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1...it?usp=sharing
I went for a MyPin TA4 just because of the colourful buttons, but functionality wise they are the same.
Pics
Project Box
One thing I didn't account for when selecting the enclosure was the retaining clasp size, which unfortunately if I mounted the PID in the horizontal position there was no room for it to fit and hold the PID in place. So bear that in mind, you'll probably need a bigger one as I preferred the layout horizontally. Maplins do sell bigger sizes which do match the Classic's housing.
Clip fits in Vertical Position
Drill & Cut enclosure
PID horizontally mounted
PID vertically mounted
Parts
PID Controller + 40A SSR +K Thermocouple Probe - £10.90
SSR-40AA £2.85
These project boxes will only fit the MyPIN TA4, NOT REX-C100
Aluminium Box 11 - £5.00
Aluminium Box 28 seems to be a better PID box but these are limited quantity and available for click and collect only - £1.00
Optional Upgrade
RTD PT100 - £23.32
Forum member MrShades can supply this at a cheaper rate and UK stock - £15
Additional Parts Required but I already had (But all available from Ebay/Maplins) :
24 and 14 AWG Wires (Turnigy or WYH)
Connectors (Piggyback, Fork and Spade)
Sleeving
Thermal Paste
100ma Fuse & Holder
Bookmarks