MM Defender IOT Controller Construction Details

MM Defender IOT Controller Construction Details

Recent posts on the Mosquito Magnet Forum have described a replacement controller that any DIY type can build and install. Poor quality control plus harsh outdoor environments has lead to some controllers becoming faulty with age. Additionally, the original controller makes it quite difficult to troubleshoot a non-working trap. Many have been longing for a replacement that can help keep these marvelous devices going into the future. The MM Defender IOT Controller article describes one approach, but is lacking details on how to actually construct and implement the device. This article will supply those details. It is, however, necessary to discuss a few matters.

First, the Mosquito Magnet traps use propane gas, which is flammable. The original designers of the trap took great pains to make sure the trap would be as safe as possible. This is why the trap shuts down if everything is not "just so." While some might say that they were being overly conservative and unnecessarily cautious, DIYers have not done the extensive analysis that is customary for a manufacturer of a potentially dangerous device.

Making and deploying a substitute controller, or any modification of a dangerous device, can be regarded as a risky or even reckless action. If something goes wrong, and there is an explosion, poisoning, or other calamity resulting in loss of life and limb, or property damage, do you want to have had a hand in the chain of events that might have caused it?

Second, the construction, modification, and installation requires a certain amount of skill with PCBs and micro component soldering. Those without the right tools will find this project too difficult. Once modified, it is not trivial to revert to the original controller. If the system does not work, you may be stuck.