Every year on 31st August, Malaysians come together to celebrate Hari Kebangsaan, commemorating the nation's independence and the values that unite us as one people. It is a day to reflect on our history, appreciate our freedom, and look forward to a brighter future built on unity, innovation, and progress.
🇲🇾 Happy Independence Day, Malaysia! ❤️🤍💙
At MY CREATIVE ENGINEERING, we believe that the spirit of independence is also the spirit of creativity. Every project we build, every solution we design, and every challenge we overcome is driven by dedication, passion, and the desire to make a positive impact.
As engineers and innovators, we are proud to contribute to Malaysia's growth by providing quality engineering products and solutions that empower students, makers, hobbyists, educators, and professionals.
On this meaningful occasion, we extend our heartfelt wishes to all Malaysians:
🇲🇾 Happy Independence Day, Malaysia! Selamat Hari Kebangsaan 2026!
May our nation continue to prosper with peace, unity, and innovation. Together, let us build a stronger and brighter Malaysia for generations to come.
Thank you for your continued support of MY CREATIVE ENGINEERING.
Have you ever experienced an autogate remote that suddenly stops working, while the manual push button still opens and closes the gate without any problem? This is a common issue, and in many cases, the problem is not the autogate control board but the remote receiver itself.
In this guide, I'll show you how to troubleshoot the problem and replace the faulty receiver with the Tuya DIY-DC01-TY Smart Receiver, which comes with an RF433 remote control and supports the Tuya Smart and Smart Life mobile apps.
Upgrade your autogate with the Tuya DIY-DC01-TY Smart Receiver.
Problem Symptoms
The first step is identifying the problem.
In my case:
❌ RF remote control was not responding.
✅ Manual push button worked normally.
✅ The autogate motor operated without any issues.
This indicates that the autogate controller is still functioning properly, and the fault is likely with the receiver.
Troubleshooting the Receiver
A working manual switch usually indicates the receiver is faulty.
Before replacing any components, it's important to verify the power supply. Using a digital multimeter, I measured the DC voltage supplied to the receiver. The reading was approximately 19V DC, which is within the operating range of the Tuya DIY-DC01-TY (7–32V DC).
Since the receiver was receiving power but failed to respond to the remote control, it was safe to conclude that the original receiver had failed.
Why Choose the Tuya DIY-DC01-TY?
Upgrade your autogate with RF433 remote and smartphone control.
The Tuya DIY-DC01-TY is a compact Wi-Fi smart relay designed for automation projects.
Features
Supports 7–32V DC input
Includes RF433 remote control
Compatible with Tuya Smart and Smart Life
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth pairing
NO, COM, and NC relay outputs
Supports Momentary and Self-Locking modes
Timer and Inching functions
Remote control from anywhere
This makes it an excellent replacement for many autogate receiver systems.
Installation
Installation is straightforward.
Cut and strip the connector wires for the new receiver.
Disconnect the autogate power.
Remove the faulty receiver.
Cut and strip the existing connector wires.
Connect:
Red & Black → DC Input
Common Wire → COM
Yellow Wire → NO
Insulate the unused green wire.
Reconnect the receiver to the autogate control board.
Protect any unused wires from short circuits.
Replacing the receiver only takes a few simple wiring connections.
Once the wiring is complete, power up the system.
Pairing the RF433 Remote
Pair the included RF433 remote in just a few seconds.
Pairing the included RF433 remote only takes a few seconds.
Hold the RF Pairing button for about three seconds.
Press and hold the desired remote button for two seconds.
Release the button.
The pairing is now complete.
A quick test confirms that the remote can successfully open and close the autogate.
Connect to the Tuya Smart App
The DIY-DC01-TY also supports smartphone control.
Simply:
Download Tuya Smart or Smart Life
Hold the Reset button for eight seconds
Wait until the blue indicator flashes rapidly
Add the device through the app
Connect it to your 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network
Search for the receiver in the app.
Within a few minutes, your autogate can be controlled directly from your smartphone.
Recommended Settings
For autogate applications, these settings work best:
Configure the receiver for reliable autogate operation.
Restart Status: Reset Memory
External Switch Type: Momentary Button
Timer Mode: Inching
Inching Time: 1 Second
These settings simulate a momentary push button, which is suitable for most autogate controllers.
Final Testing
After configuration, it's time for a final test.
Verify that both the remote and smartphone control work properly.
Using the RF433 remote:
Press once → Gate opens.
Press again → Gate closes.
Using the Tuya Smart app:
Tap the ON button → Gate opens.
Tap again → Gate closes.
Everything works smoothly with both the remote control and the smartphone.
Conclusion
Replacing a faulty autogate receiver doesn't have to be expensive or complicated. The Tuya DIY-DC01-TY Smart Receiver is an affordable solution that not only restores remote control but also adds modern smart features such as smartphone control, timers, automation, and remote access.
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Looking for an interesting Arduino project? In this project, we built a DIY Cooling Box using an Arduino Uno and TEC1-12706 Peltier module. The system monitors the temperature inside the box and controls the cooling system while displaying the current temperature on a 16x2 LCD. During testing, the temperature dropped from approximately 34°C to 30°C within several minutes.
Building a DIY Arduino-Powered Cooling Box
How the Cooling Box Works
The main cooling component is the TEC1-12706 Peltier module. When powered, one side becomes cold while the other side becomes hot. The cold side faces inside the cooling box, while the hot side transfers heat to a heatsink and cooling fan.
The Arduino Uno acts as the main controller. A DHT11 sensor measures the temperature inside the box, while a 16x2 LCD with I2C displays the current temperature and cooling status. A 2-channel relay module is used to switch the cooling system.
Components Used
Components Required for the DIY Cooling Box
The components used for this project include an Arduino Uno R3, 2-channel relay module, TEC1-12706 Peltier module, 12V DC cooling fan with heatsink, 16x2 LCD I2C display, DHT11 sensor, breadboard, DC barrel jack adapter, jumper wires, 12V power supply, and thermal paste.
Wiring and Arduino Programming
Connecting the Components According to the Wiring Diagram
Before installing the components inside the box, we connected everything according to the wiring diagram. Carefully checking the wiring before applying power helps prevent incorrect connections and makes troubleshooting easier.
Uploading the Arduino Code
Next, the Arduino program was uploaded to the Arduino Uno. The program reads the temperature from the DHT11 sensor, displays the information on the LCD, and controls the cooling system. Click HERE to download.
Mock Testing
Testing the Circuit Before Final Installation
Before installing everything into the cooling box, we performed a mock test. We checked that the LCD displayed correctly and that the relay, cooling fan, Peltier module, and temperature sensor were operating properly.
Installing the Cooling Fan and Heatsink
Preparing the Box for the Cooling System
An opening was made in the cooling box to install the cooling fan and heatsink. Proper positioning of the heatsink and fan is important to effectively remove heat generated by the Peltier module.
Installing the Peltier Module
Installing the TEC1-12706 Peltier Module
A thin layer of thermal paste was applied between the TEC1-12706 Peltier module and the heatsink to improve heat transfer. The hot side faces the heatsink, while the cold side faces inside the cooling box.
Installing the LCD Display
Mounting the 16x2 LCD I2C Display
The 16x2 LCD I2C display was mounted on the outside of the cooling box using double-sided tape. This allows the temperature and cooling status to be monitored without opening the box.
Installing the DHT11 Sensor
Placing the DHT11 Sensor Inside the Cooling Box
The DHT11 temperature and humidity sensor was placed inside the box to monitor the internal temperature. Its readings are sent to the Arduino and displayed on the LCD.
Final Wiring
Reconnecting and Organizing All Components
After installing the components, everything was reconnected according to the wiring diagram. The wires were arranged neatly to keep the project organized and make future maintenance easier.
Testing the Cooling Box
Powering Up the Completed Cooling Box
After completing the assembly, the system was powered on. We checked that the LCD turned on, the cooling fan was running, and the cooling system was operating correctly.
Temperature Drops from 34°C to 30°C
During our cooling test, the LCD showed the temperature gradually decreasing from approximately 34°C to 30°C within several minutes. Actual performance may vary depending on the box insulation, ambient temperature, heatsink, airflow, and power supply.
This DIY cooling box is a great project for learning about Arduino programming, thermoelectric cooling, temperature monitoring, sensors, and relay control. The design can be further improved with better insulation, a larger heatsink, improved airflow, or a more accurate temperature sensor.
Project Contributor: Nasiruddin Bin Nadzrin
Intern, Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka (UTeM)
The TCRT5000 3 Channel Line Tracker Sensor Module is widely used in robotics and automation projects for detecting lines and distinguishing between black and white surfaces. It uses infrared (IR) reflective sensors to measure the amount of reflected light from a surface.
TCRT5000 3-channel line tracker sensor module used with Arduino Uno.
In this project, we will interface a TCRT5000 3-channel module with an Arduino Uno and observe how the sensor responds to black and white surfaces using the Arduino Serial Monitor.
What is the TCRT5000 Line Tracker Sensor?
The TCRT5000 is an infrared reflective sensor consisting of an IR LED transmitter and a phototransistor receiver. When infrared light is emitted, the amount of reflected light depends on the surface color.
White surfaces reflect more infrared light.
Black surfaces absorb more infrared light.
Line detection principle based on reflected infrared light.
This principle allows the sensor to detect lines and is commonly used in line-following robots.
Components Required
Components needed for the TCRT5000 Arduino project.
Arduino Uno
TCRT5000 3 Channel Line Tracker Module
Dupont Jumper Wires
USB Cable
Cardboard
Black Electrical Tape
Wiring Connections
Wiring diagram between the TCRT5000 module and Arduino Uno.
VCC → 5V
GND → GND
L → A0
C → A1
R → A2
Arduino Code
Arduino sketch for reading three TCRT5000 sensor channels.
Upload the following code to the Arduino Uno. You can download coding click HERE.
int L = A0;
int C = A1;
int R = A2;
void setup() {
Serial.begin(9600);
}
void loop() {
int valL = analogRead(L);
int valC = analogRead(C);
int valR = analogRead(R);
Serial.print("L: ");
Serial.print(valL);
Serial.print(" C: ");
Serial.print(valC);
Serial.print(" R: ");
Serial.println(valR);
delay(300);
}
How the Code Works
The program continuously reads the analog values from the three sensor channels.
Left sensor connected to A0
Center sensor connected to A1
Right sensor connected to A2
The sensor readings are displayed in the Arduino Serial Monitor every 300 milliseconds.
Sensor Testing
To test the module:
Place the sensor above a white cardboard surface.
Observe the indicator LEDs on the module.
Move the sensor above the black tape line.
Compare the readings shown on the Serial Monitor.
White Surface
Sensor positioned above a white reflective surface.
When the sensor is positioned above the white cardboard:
The infrared light is strongly reflected.
Indicator LEDs turn ON.
Higher sensor readings are observed.
Black Surface
Sensor positioned above a black non-reflective surface.
When the sensor is positioned above the black tape:
Less infrared light is reflected.
Indicator LEDs turn OFF.
Sensor readings change significantly.
This difference allows robots to detect and follow a black line on a white background.
Adjusting Sensor Sensitivity
Sensitivity adjustment using the onboard potentiometer.
The blue potentiometer on the module allows sensitivity adjustment.
Turn clockwise to increase sensitivity.
Turn counterclockwise to decrease sensitivity.
Adjust the potentiometer until the sensor can clearly distinguish between the black tape and white cardboard.
The TCRT5000 3 Channel Line Tracker Sensor Module is an inexpensive and effective sensor for line detection applications. By interfacing it with an Arduino Uno, we can easily monitor sensor readings and detect the difference between black and white surfaces.
This project demonstrates the basic operation of the sensor and provides a foundation for building line-following robots and automation systems.
The AS-10 Photo Sensor is an automatic light control switch designed to turn lamps ON during nighttime and OFF during daytime automatically. This device is commonly used for outdoor lighting such as porch lamps, garden lights, street lights, and billboard lighting to help save electricity and improve convenience.
AS-10 automatically controls lighting based on surrounding brightness.
AS-10 Specifications
The AS-10 photo sensor operates at 220-240VAC with a maximum load capacity of 10A. It is suitable for various AC lighting applications and supports automatic day and night operation without manual switching.
Components Required for Installation
Prepare all tools and components before installation.
Before starting the installation process, prepare all necessary components including the AS-10 photo sensor, lamp and lamp holder, wire cord, connector, screwdriver, and wire cutter. Proper preparation helps make the installation safer and easier.
Understanding AS-10 Wire Functions
Black = LIVE, White = NEUTRAL, Red = LOAD output to lamp.
The AS-10 photo sensor comes with three wires for installation. The black wire is connected to the LIVE or LINE input, the white wire is connected to the NEUTRAL line, and the red wire is connected to the lamp load output.
Wiring Diagram Installation
Follow the wiring diagram carefully for proper installation.
The wiring connection is simple and suitable for basic lighting systems. Connect the black wire to the AC LIVE input, connect the white wire to the AC NEUTRAL line, and connect the red wire to the lamp LIVE wire while the lamp neutral wire connects directly to NEUTRAL.
How to Install AS-10 Photo Sensor
Always switch OFF the power supply before installation.
First, switch OFF the power supply before handling any electrical wiring. Connect all wires securely using suitable connectors and ensure there are no loose connections before turning ON the power supply.
Testing the AS-10 Photo Sensor
Cover the sensor to simulate nighttime condition.
Lamp stays OFF during daytime.
After installation is completed, turn ON the power supply for testing. Cover the AS-10 sensor using a black plastic or dark cover and wait around 5 to 10 seconds until the lamp turns ON automatically. Remove the cover and after another 5 to 10 seconds, the lamp will turn OFF automatically.
Advantages of Using AS-10
The AS-10 photo sensor helps reduce electricity consumption by automatically controlling lighting operation. It also improves convenience by eliminating the need for manual switching and is suitable for both residential and commercial lighting systems.
The AS-10 Photo Sensor is an affordable and practical solution for automatic lighting control. With simple wiring and easy installation, it is ideal for outdoor lighting applications requiring automatic ON and OFF functionality.
If you are looking for an easy way to strip copper wires for recycling or workshop use, this Manual Wire Stripping Machine is a simple and affordable solution. In this review, we tested the machine from unboxing, installation, setup, and real wire stripping performance.
Manual Wire Stripping Machine Review & Setup.
Unboxing & Components
Unboxing & Components Overview.
Inside the package, the machine comes with:
Manual wire stripping machine
Crank handle
Wrench tools
Mounting accessories
User instruction manual
The machine body feels solid and compact, making it suitable for DIY users, workshops, and small businesses.
Easy Setup Process
The setup process is very simple and beginner friendly.
Step 1 – Install The Machine
Install The Machine.
First, secure the machine onto a workbench or table to prevent movement during operation.
Step 2 – Adjust Blade Distance
Adjust Blade Distance.
Rotate the top adjustment knob to control the blade depth according to the wire size.
Step 3 – Adjust Wire Feeding Board
Adjust Wire Feeding Board.
Adjust the feeding board position so the wire enters smoothly into the stripping hole.
Step 4 – Install Crank Handle
Install Crank Handle.
Install the crank handle for manual operation or connect an electric drill for faster stripping.
Finally, make sure all screws are tightened properly before use.
Real Testing Result
Clean Copper Stripping Result.
During testing, the machine was able to strip wire insulation cleanly and expose the copper wire nicely.
The machine supports:
Small wires
Medium electrical cables
Copper wire recycling work
Manual Or Drill Operation.
Using a drill makes the stripping process much faster and easier.
Pros
✔ Easy to setup ✔ Compact design ✔ Clean copper stripping result ✔ Manual or drill operation ✔ Suitable for DIY and workshop use
Overall, this Manual Wire Stripping Machine is a useful tool for anyone working with electrical wires or copper recycling. It is simple, effective, and beginner friendly while still providing good stripping performance. If you frequently handle scrap copper wires, this tool can help save time and effort.
LCD 1602 I2C is one of the most popular display modules used in Arduino projects. It is simple to use, requires only 4 wires, and can display text clearly for various electronics projects such as temperature monitors, counters, sensors, and automation systems.
Easy LCD Display Module for Arduino Projects.
In this tutorial, we will learn how to connect and use the LCD 1602 I2C display with Arduino UNO.
What is LCD 1602 I2C?
The LCD 1602 I2C is a 16x2 character display module with an I2C interface adapter attached at the back. Compared to a normal LCD 1602, the I2C version uses fewer Arduino pins, making wiring much easier and cleaner.
The display can show:
16 characters per row
2 rows of text
Letters, numbers, and symbols
It is suitable for beginners and advanced Arduino users.
LCD 1602 I2C Specifications
LCD 1602 I2C Technical Specifications.
Here are the basic specifications of the LCD module:
Display Type: Character LCD
Display Format: 16x2
Interface: I2C Communication
Operating Voltage: 5V DC
Adjustable Contrast
Only 4 Wires Required
The module usually comes in Blue or Yellow-Green backlight versions.
Components Required
Components Needed for This Project.
For this project, we need:
Arduino UNO R3
LCD 1602 I2C Module
Jumper Wires
Breadboard
USB Cable
Wiring Diagram
LCD 1602 I2C Wiring Connection.
Connect the LCD 1602 I2C to Arduino UNO using the following connections:
Using LCD 1602 I2C with Arduino UNO is simple and beginner-friendly. Since it only requires 4 wires, it helps reduce complicated wiring and saves Arduino pins for other sensors and modules. We hope this tutorial helps you start using LCD 1602 I2C in your own Arduino projects.