The solar tracker consisted of an Arduino Uno, a motor shield, a stepper motortor,a DC motor/potentiometer, and photo resistors. Using data from the photoresistors the system would rotate in two directions in order to orient the solar panel with the sun/light source. System performance was evaluated by measuring voltage changes corresponding to different altitude angles, using a multimeter connected to the solar panel. Testing focused on assessing the accuracy of the tracking mechanism, revealing reliable operation at 90° and 45° increments, but reduced performance at 15° increments and at angles approaching 0° and 180°
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Overall, this project helped me learn in many different aspects. Having previous experience with these components, I took the role of a team leader for our team of 4 students. I helped divide tasks among different teammates, given their strengths, making sure no one felt not included. The biggest struggle with this project was definitely getting the Arduino code to accurately control the motors and point our tracker correctly.