EAST WEST UNIVERSITY

Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Spring 2025

EEE202: Electronic Circuits-II

Section (2)
Project Report
Project Name: Smart Solar-Powered Street Light Using MOSFET and Op-Amp

Group No: 07
Group Members:
➢ Name: Khandaker Tasnimul Amin Rafi
ID: 2023-3-80-032
➢ Name: Md. Rakibul Islam Rumman
ID: 2023-3-80-058
➢ Name: Maruf Mahmud khan
ID: 2023-3-80-081
➢ Name: Md. Hossain Sarker
ID: 2023-3-80-094
➢ Name: Md. Abdus Samad Rafe
ID: 2023-3-80-114

Submitted to:
Kamanashis Saha (KNS)
Lecturer
Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Submission date: 16-5-2025

❖ Introduction
Street lighting plays a vital role in ensuring safety, visibility, and a sense of security after dark.
But in many rural or remote areas, traditional street lighting systems still rely on manual
operation or outdated technology. These systems are not only labor-intensive but also highly
inefficient lights are often left on during the day or fail to turn on when needed, leading to
unnecessary energy waste.
Our project addresses this problem by developing a Smart Solar-Powered Street Light System
that operates automatically. The lights turn on at dusk and switch off at dawn—no manual input
required. This is made possible by using solar power, a light-dependent resistor (LDR) for light
detection, and a combination of operational amplifiers (op-amps) and MOSFETs to control the
switching.

❖ Project Significance
The Smart Solar-Powered Street Light System was designed not just as a technical exercise, but
as a solution with real-world benefits. Its significance can be seen across multiple dimensions—
societal, economic, and environmental.
➢ Societal Significance:
✓ Reliable street lighting plays a crucial role in improving public safety, especially after
dark. Our system ensures consistent nighttime illumination, which helps reduce
accidents, discourage crime, and improve overall community confidence.
✓ By automating the process, we eliminate the dependency on manual switching,
minimizing the risk of lights being left off at night or unnecessarily running during the
day.
✓ This is particularly impactful in rural or remote areas where access to the electrical grid
is limited or non-existent. In such regions, a self-sustaining solar lighting system can
make a significant difference in quality of life.
[

➢ Economic Significance:
✓ From an economic standpoint, the project helps reduce energy costs by relying entirely
on solar power. There's no need for ongoing electricity bills or complex infrastructure.
✓ The design is intentionally simple and has low maintenance, making it ideal for long-
term use with minimal upkeep.
✓ Because it uses readily available, affordable components, the system is also cost-
effective to build—making it accessible to low-income communities, small
municipalities, or institutions operating on tight budgets.
➢ Environmental Significance:
✓ The environmental benefits are just as important. By using renewable solar energy and
energy-efficient LEDs, our system significantly reduces carbon emissions and
dependence on fossil fuels.
 ✓ It’s a small but meaningful step toward sustainable infrastructure—one that can be
scaled to reduce the environmental footprint of public lighting in cities and rural areas
alike.
❖ Literature Review: Alternative Engineering Solutions
Before finalizing our design, we explored several existing engineering approaches to automatic
street lighting. Each method offers unique benefits and drawbacks, depending on the
environment, budget, and technical complexity. Below is a summary of the most common
alternatives and how our chosen method compares.
1. Manual Switching:
This is the most traditional method, where streetlights are turned on and off by a person at
fixed times.
• Advantages:
o Very low cost
o No need for technical components or sensors
• Limitations:
o Prone to human error—lights may be left on during the day or off at night
o Labor-intensive and impractical for large or remote installations
This method is outdated and lacks efficiency, making it unsuitable for modern applications.

2. Timer-Based Systems:
Timer-controlled systems automate lighting based on pre-set schedules.
• Advantages:
o Simple and low-cost automation
o Reliable when light/dark timings are consistent
• Limitations:
o Inflexible—cannot adapt to seasonal changes or weather variations
o Requires regular reprogramming to stay accurate
While better than manual systems, timer-based control still lacks real-time adaptability.

3. Motion Sensor-Based Systems (PIR):

These systems use infrared motion sensors to activate lighting only when movement is
detected.
• Advantages:
o Very energy-efficient in low-traffic areas
o Ideal for walkways or private driveways
• Limitations:
o Not suitable for continuous lighting needs, such as public roads or highways
o Can be triggered by animals or irrelevant motion, causing inconsistent behavior
Though efficient in certain contexts, motion-sensor systems are not reliable for all-night
lighting.
 4. Microcontroller-Based Systems:
Using devices like Arduino or ESP32, these systems offer programmable control of lighting
based on sensors, timers, or user input.
• Advantages:
o Highly customizable and intelligent
o Can integrate multiple features (e.g., motion sensing, dimming, scheduling)
o Suitable for smart city environments
• Limitations:
o Higher cost and complexity
o Requires programming skills and maintenance
o Increased power consumption
These are powerful systems but are overkilled for basic street lighting in resource-
constrained areas.
5. LDR + Op-Amp + MOSFET-Based Systems (Our Approach):
This method uses a Light Dependent Resistor (LDR) to detect ambient light, operational
amplifiers (Op-Amps) as comparators, and MOSFETs as switches to control the LED load.
• Advantages:
o Simple, low-cost, and reliable
o Responds in real time to natural light conditions
o Easy to build and maintain
o No programming or microcontroller required
• Limitations:
o Less customizable than microcontroller-based solutions
o Requires calibration to set accurate light thresholds

Why We Chose This Method

After careful analysis, we chose the LDR + Op-Amp + MOSFET method because it offers the
best balance of performance, simplicity, and affordability. It directly supports the learning
outcomes of our EEE 202 course, utilizing analog components such as the LM324 op-amp and
IRF540N MOSFET, which we studied in class. It also aligns with our goal of developing a system
that can be easily implemented in rural or off-grid areas, where access to programming
expertise or costly components may be limited.

By combining real-time light sensing, renewable solar power, and robust analog control, our
design delivers an effective solution for modern, sustainable street lighting.
❖ Engineering Knowledge and Principles Applied
This project gave us the opportunity to apply the core electrical and electronic engineering
principles we've studied throughout our coursework, especially in Electronic Circuits II (EEE
202). We used both theoretical understanding and practical skills to design, simulate, and build
a reliable, automated lighting system powered by solar energy.
Course Knowledge Applied:
• EEE 101– We used fundamental circuit concepts such as voltage dividers, Ohm’s law, and
series-parallel configurations.
• EEE 102 – We applied our understanding of semiconductor devices, especially the
behavior of diodes, transistors, and MOSFETs.
• EEE 202 – This project directly implemented concepts from our current course, including
the use of operational amplifiers as comparators and MOSFETs as switching elements in
real-world applications.
Key Engineering Concepts in Our Design:
1. LDR (Light Dependent Resistor)
• Acts as the light sensor in our system.
• Its resistance changes based on ambient light, forming a voltage divider that outputs a
variable voltage depending on brightness.
• This principle allowed us to convert natural light levels into an electrical signal.

2. Op-Amps (LM324)
• Used as comparators to evaluate the voltage from the LDR against reference voltage.
• When ambient light drops below a threshold, the op-amp outputs a high signal,
triggering the LED lights.
• We used a potentiometer to fine-tune the reference voltage, giving us control over light
sensitivity.

3. MOSFETs (IRF540N)
• Function as electronic switches to control high-current loads (LEDs).
• When the gate receives a high signal from the comparator, the MOSFET turns on,
allowing current to flow through the LEDs.
• This allowed us to safely power multiple LEDs with minimal loss and high efficiency.

4. Voltage Regulator (LM7812)

• Ensures a steady 12V DC supply to power the circuit.
• Protects sensitive components from voltage fluctuations coming from the solar panel,
especially under variable lighting conditions.

5. Protection Diodes (1N4007)

• Placed in the power path to prevent reverse current from flowing back into the solar
panel or regulator.
• Helps protect the components and increases the overall reliability of the system.
❖ Design Process
To build the Smart Solar-Powered Street Light System, we followed a clear and methodical
design process. The system was divided into logical blocks, each performing a specific role—
from capturing solar energy to sensing light and automatically powering LEDs. Below is a step-
by-step overview of how we designed and implemented the project.
➢ Power supply Section:
• Two 6V Solar panels provide DC voltage to charge the voltage Li-po battery.
• Charging as regulated using LM317T with resistor (1.5 KΩ and 240 Ω)
• Two 1N4007 diodes prevent reverse current from the battery. (One prevents current from
flowing back into the solar panel The other protects the battery circuit)
• A voltmeter is added to monitor the charging value.
➢ Light Sensing Section:
• An LDR forms a voltage divider with a 10 KΩ fixed resistor.
• As ambient light decreases LDR resistance increases and rising the voltage across the divider.
▪ Bright Light → Low LDR resistance → Low output voltage
▪ Low Light → High LDR resistance → High output voltage.
➢ Comparator and Load Driving Section:
• The voltage across the LDR is fed into three Op-Amp Comparators (LM324)
• Each Op-Amp is compared with threshold voltage set by potentiometers.
• If the LDR voltage exceeds the threshold voltage (Darker Environment), the Op-Amp outputs
are high.
• This high output turns on the connected IRF40N MOSFET, which switches to the LED group.
• Three stages are implemented to allow
 Dim lighting in the evening.
 Moderate lighting at twilight.
 Full brightness at night.
➢ LED Control Section:
• In Bright day light, the LDR resistance is low, the voltage output is low, all Op-Amp output is
low, as a result no LED is turned on.
• In the evening (low light), the LDR resistance is higher, voltage output is moderate, in this
case one Op-Amp comparator output is high, turning one group of LEDs.
• In the night (very low light), the LDR resistance is highest, the voltage output is highest. Two-
three Op-Amp comparators will output high, turning two or three LEDs group for better
illumination.
➢ Calculation for Voltage Divider:
For the voltage divider formed by the LDR and the fixed resistor, the output is
𝑅𝐿𝐷𝑅
𝑣𝐿𝐷𝑅 = 𝑣𝑐𝑐 ×
𝑅𝐿𝐷𝑅 +𝑅

Here,
Vcc is the input voltage (9V from the battery)
RLDR is the resistance of the LDR.
R is the resistance of the fixed resistance (10 KΩ)
We assume,
In low light LDR has 5KΩ resistance.
5
𝑣𝐿𝐷𝑅1 = 9 ×
5+10

𝑣𝐿𝐷𝑅1 = 3𝑣
In evening LDR has 15KΩ resistance.
15
𝑣𝐿𝐷𝑅2 = 9 ×
15+10

𝑣𝐿𝐷𝑅2 = 5.4𝑣
In mid night LDR has 50KΩ resistance.
30
𝑣𝐿𝐷𝑅3 = 9 ×
30+10

𝑣𝐿𝐷𝑅3 = 6.75𝑣
So,
For low light, 𝑣𝑟𝑒𝑓1 < 3𝑉

For low light, 𝑣𝑟𝑒𝑓2 < 5.4𝑉

For low light, 𝑣𝑟𝑒𝑓3 < 7.5𝑉

For our implementation we assume, 𝑣𝑟𝑒𝑓1 = 2.6𝑉; 𝑣𝑟𝑒𝑓2 = 5.2𝑉; 𝑣𝑟𝑒𝑓3 = 6.6𝑉

❖ Schematics and Operation Procedure

Our system was designed and verified through two main phases: software simulation and
hardware implementation. Below is a detailed explanation of the circuit schematics and the
step-by-step operation procedure in both stages.
1. Software Simulation:

We use Proteus Design Suite – a popular electronics simulation platform that allowed us to
visualize and test our circuit before building it physically.
➢ Schematic Overview:
The simulated circuit consisted of:
✓ LDR and Resistor forming a voltage divider connected to the non-inverting input of an LM324 op-amp.
✓ The inverting input of the op-amp was connected to a reference voltage set using a potentiometer.
✓ The op-amp output was connected to the gate of an IRF540N MOSFET through 1k resistor (for smooth
output).
✓ A 9V LED strip was connected as the load, powered through the MOSFET’s drain-source path.
✓ Power was supplied through a regulated 9V DC source to simulate the solar panel output (9V battery
acting as power storage).

➢ Simulation Behavior:
✓ During high light conditions (simulated by lowering LDR resistance), the voltage across
the LDR was low, the op-amp output stayed LOW, and the MOSFET remained OFF →
LEDs OFF.
✓ As light decreased (simulated by increasing LDR resistance), the LDR voltage increased
and exceeded the reference voltage → op-amp output went HIGH → MOSFET turned ON
→ LEDs turned ON.
This confirmed that our logic worked perfectly in a controlled environment before
proceeding to physical testing.
Simulation Circuit:
Simulation Video: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1FxWWBFUnjnJ2S4HPRa5BjmF3yJ45EZIN/view?usp=drive_link
2. Hardware Implementation
The physical circuit followed the same design principles as the simulation, with the following
components:
✓ Solar Panel (12V) → primary power source.
✓ LM7812 → voltage regulator for consistent 9V output.
✓ LDR + Fixed Resistor → light-sensitive voltage divider.
✓ LM324 Op-Amp → used as a voltage comparator.
✓ Potentiometer → sets reference voltage for threshold comparison.
✓ IRF540N MOSFET → used as a high-current switch.
✓ LEDs → light load grouped in three zones.
✓ Diodes (1N4007) → protect against reverse current.
Each zone had its own LDR, comparator, MOSFET, and LED cluster, allowing for modular
operation.

❖ Operation Procedure
Step-by-Step Behavior (Day to Night):
1. Daylight Condition:
✓ The LDR detects bright ambient light.
✓ Resistance is low → voltage at the op-amp input stays below the reference.
✓ Op-amp output remains LOW → MOSFET stays OFF → LEDs remain OFF.
✓ The system conserves energy and prevents unnecessary operations.
2. Sunset / Low Light Condition:
✓ As it gets darker, the LDR’s resistance increases.
✓ This raises the voltage at the op-amp’s non-inverting input.
✓ When this voltage exceeds the reference set by the potentiometer:
• The op-amp output switches HIGH.
• The MOSFET gate receives a triggering signal.
• The MOSFET turns ON → current flows to the LEDs → streetlights turn ON
automatically.
3. Sunrise / Bright Light Condition:
✓ LDR senses increased light.
✓ Voltage drops below the reference.
✓ The op-amp output goes LOW → the MOSFET turns OFF → LEDs turn OFF.
Testing Conditions:
• We tested the system under both natural sunlight and with artificial light sources (like a
flashlight) to simulate day/night conditions.
• Potentiometers were adjusted for fine-tuning the sensitivity threshold of each zone.
• Each zone responded independently and reliably to changes in lighting.

❖ Component List and Prices

Component Quantity Unit Price (BDT) Total (BDT)

Solar Panel (12V) 1 800 800

LDR 1 20 20
LM324 (Op-Amp) 1 40 40

LM7812 Voltage Regulator 1 25 25

IRF540N MOSFET 3 45 135

LEDs 12 5 60

Fixed Resistors 10 2 20
 Potentiometers (RV) 3 10 30
Diodes (1N4007) 2 3 6
Breadboard/Wires - 150 150

Total 1,286 BDT

❖ Implementation Procedure
After finalizing the circuit design and validating it through simulation, we proceeded to build
the project physically. The hardware implementation involved assembling components on a
breadboard, powering the circuit with a solar panel, and testing it under real and simulated
lighting conditions.
Below is the step-by-step procedure we followed to implement the Smart Solar-Powered
Street Light System:
Step 1: Power Supply Setup
• We started with a 12V (6V+6V) solar panel as the power source for the entire system.
• A 1N4007 diode was placed in series with the panel to prevent reverse current.
• We connected the solar panel output to an LM7812 voltage regulator to ensure a steady
12V DC output.
Step 2: Light Sensing Circuit
• We created a voltage divider using a Light Dependent Resistor (LDR) and a fixed resistor.
• The voltage across the LDR was connected to the non-inverting (+) input of the LM324
op-amp.
• This allowed the circuit to sense changes in ambient light.
Step 3: Reference Voltage Setup
• We connected a 10kΩ potentiometer to the inverting (–) input of the op-amp to
provide a tunable reference voltage.
• This helped us to calibrate the system by adjusting the sensitivity to light levels.
Step 4: Comparator and MOSFET Integration
• The output of the op-amp was connected to the gate of an IRF540N MOSFET.
 • The drain of the MOSFET was connected to the negative terminal of an LED cluster,
while the source was grounded.
• When the comparator output went HIGH (low light detected), it triggered the gate,
allowing current to flow and the LEDs to turn on.
Step 5: Zone Distribution
• We divided the LEDs into three zones, each with its own LDR, comparator, and MOSFET.
• This modular design allowed independent control of each LED group based on local
lighting conditions.
Step 6: Testing and Calibration
• We tested the system under natural sunlight and with a torch/flashlight to simulate
day/night transitions.
• By adjusting the potentiometers, we fine-tuned the light sensitivity of each zone.
• When it was dark (or when we blocked the LDR), the LEDs turned on automatically.
When exposed to bright light, they turned off.
Final Result
The system worked as expected:
• It responded instantly to changes in light.
• It required no manual intervention.
• It was fully powered by solar energy, making it an energy-efficient and eco-friendly
solution.

At the time of full environmental light is high when At the time of environmental light is low (mid night)

LDR Resistance is low and all light bed off. when LDR Resistance is high and all light bed ON.
At the time of environmental light is low (evening) At the time of environmental light is low (low light) when

when LDR Resistance is moderately high and two light LDR Resistance is high and one light bed on.

bed on.

VideoLink:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1xqTpJCoQX0FmZ5dSpTHMudraa21jcCT/view?usp=drive_link

❖ Performance and Error Analysis

After assembling and testing the Smart Solar-Powered Street Light system, we carefully
evaluated its performance under different lighting conditions and identified a few areas that
required adjustment. Overall, the system performed reliably and met our expectations, but like
any real-world implementation, it came with some challenges and minor errors that we
analyzed and addressed.

➢ Performance Evaluation
What Worked Well:
✓ Accurate Light Detection:
The LDRs successfully detected changes in ambient light, triggering the op-amps to
switch the LEDs on or off based on the brightness level.
✓ Reliable Automatic Operation:
The system consistently turned the LEDs on at dusk and off at dawn without any
manual intervention.
✓ Low Power Consumption:
The use of solar power and efficient LEDs ensured that the entire circuit remained
energy-efficient, making it sustainable for continuous use.
 ✓ Independent Zone Control:
Each of the three lighting zones operated independently, allowing for flexible lighting
setups across different areas.
✓ Stability and Safety:
The voltage regulator (LM7812) provided a steady 12V supply, and the protective
diodes effectively prevented reverse current damage.

➢ Error Analysis

Calculation:

Voltage across OP-amp Inverting terminal (𝒗𝑳𝑫𝑹 )

State Theoretical Simulation Implemental Error
Value (Volt) Value (Volt) Value (Volt)
Low light
(BED1) 𝑉𝐿𝐷𝑅1 2.6 2.61 2.64 1.42%
Evening
(BED2) 𝑉𝐿𝐷𝑅2 5.2 5.22 5.31 1.724%
Mid Night
(BED) 𝑉𝐿𝐷𝑅3 6.6 6.66 6.62 0.6%

Here,
We calculate error depending on simulation (assume as ideal) value.
Issues Faced and Resolutions:
Problem Cause Solution
Inconsistent LDR
LDRs have slight variations in Individually calibrated the
sensitivity between
manufacturing specs potentiometers for each zone
zones
Rapid fluctuations in light Added a capacitor to the op-
LEDs flickering slightly
caused unstable comparator amp output to smooth
at dusk/dawn
output transitions
Reduced LED Used high-efficiency LEDs and
Voltage drops due to diode
brightness in some ensured good wiring
and load resistance
tests connections
MOSFET heating High current through drain- Reduced load per zone and
during prolonged use source without heatsinking allowed airflow near MOSFETs
Calibration drift under Indoor testing with Final calibration was done
artificial light inconsistent light reflections under natural outdoor lighting
❖ Features (Smart Functionalities & Advantages):
• Adjust Sensitivity: Potentiometer allow precise adjustment of thresholds voltage level for
each comparator, enabling, customization of when each LED groups turn on, depending on
environmental needs.
• Efficient power Usage: MOSFETs (IR540N) act as efficient electronics switches with very low
ON-resistance, reducing heat loss and improving overall energy efficiency.
• Fully automatic Light Control: The system intelligence senses ambient light using LDR and
automatically turns LED groups On or Off based on light intensity.
• Solar Powered Operation: Powered by 12V solar panel with battery backup, the system
operates independently of the electrical grid.
• Three Level Lighting Control: Utilizes three Op-Amp comparators to drive three lighting
(dim, medium and high) offering adaptive brightness based on time of day.
• Analog Design: There is no microcontroller needed. The system works entirely using analog
components, which keeps the cost low and eliminates the need for programming.
• Simple to Build and Simulate: The circuit can be easily implemented on a breadboard and
simulated in Proteus, MATLAB and any other analog circuit simulation tool.
• Modular and Scalable Design: Additional comparators or LED groups can be added for
more complex lighting levels or expanded area coverage without redesigning the entire
system.
• Eco friendly and Maintenance free: By using power and solid-state components, the system
is green and requires minimal - maintenance perfect for sustainable development goals.
➢ Application:
• Smart Street Lighting: Automatically lights up roads at night and dim during the day,
help save energy in cities and towns.
• Garden and Landscape Lighting: Perfect for turning ON garden or pathway lights after
sunset without needing manual control or time.
• Campus and School Pathway: Keeps School and Varsity walkways safely lit during the
night using clean, solar energy.
• Rural or OFF Grid Areas: Ideal for villages or remote places where electricity is limited,
works fully on solar power and needs no external wiring.
• Security Lighting for homes or Farms: Provides low-cost lighting for boundary walls or
gates at night without increasing the power bill.
• Temporary Lighting for Events: Useful for outdoor function, stalls, or emergency camps,
just place the solar panel and it’s ready.
• Smart farm Lighting: Lights up animal shelters or farm boundaries automatically at
night, helpful for farmers.
➢ Limitation:
• LED Sensitivity can Vary: The LDRs performance may change with weather or dust, which
can affect light detection accuracy.
 • Limited Battery Backup: If the solar panel does not get enough sunlight, the day battery
may not charge fully, and lighting time will be reduced.
• No Smart Timing or Logic: Since the system is analog only, it cannot control time delays
or store data. No advanced control like in microcontroller-based system.
• Not Suitable for High Power Load: This design is made for small LED groups. If we want
to power the big lights, extra driving circuits or relays are needed.
• Manual Adjustment Requirements: Thresholds voltage must be tuned by using
potentiometer. If surrounding conditions change often, we will need to readjust them.
• No Remote Monitoring or Control: There is no wireless or IoT feature, so, we cannot
check or control it remotely unless we upgrade later.
❖ Future Improvements:
• Add a Microcontroller: Using a microcontroller can add features like precise timing,
automatic dimming, and custom lighting patterns.
• Motion Sensor Integration: Add RIP motion sensors to turn ON lights only when someone
is nearby. It can save more energy.
• IoT and Remote monitoring: Connect it to the internet (IoT) so users can check battery
levels or control lighting from a smartphone or a PC.
• Use a smart Charge Controller: Instead of LM317, a dedicated Li-ion or MPPT charge
controller can improve battery life and safety.
• Night timer Option: Include a timer so light turn OFF automatically after a fixed time at
night.
• Auto brightness control: Use PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) with a microcontroller to
adjust LED brightness gradually based on light intensity.
• Support for Larger Loads: Add relay drivers or MOSFET drivers to control bigger lights or
AC powered systems.
• Sollar Performance Track: Include a small display or cloud logging to track solar charging
performance and energy savings.
Conclusion:
This project proves that a fully automatic, Solar powered lighting system can be built using only
basic analog electronics, no coding, no microcontroller, and no external power source.
By using an LDR for sensing light, Op-Amps for decision making, and MOSFETs for switching, the
system responds smartly to changing light levels throughout the day. It’s simple, cost-effective
and Eco friendly, making it ideal for real world applications like street lighting. Garden lighting,
and Off-grid homes.
Best of all, this project builds a strong foundation for future upgrades like smart controls, motion
sensors, and IoT integration. It not only saves energy but also promotes green technology and
hands-on learning in electronics. This is the perfect example of how simple electronics can solve
modern problems.