I_Leak current

[Matthias32]

HI,
I want to copy the AxxSolder into a project of mine but make it a bit simpler if possible. Therefore I have a question: Why do we need to measure the leak current? The INA281A5 seems to be quite expensive. Do I really need it?

Thank you a lot in advance.

BR
Matthias

[AxxAxx]

Hi!
You do not really need it if you want to build your own simpler version. It is there as extra protection in case the user would for example touch the tip of the soldering iron onto a component that is live. If external voltage is forced onto the tip we can no longer trust the temperature readings and the INA281 will sense the leakage current and shut down the heating in order to save the tip from overheating.

[Matthias32]

Hi,
thank you a lot that explains it to me. I think I will keep it or search for an alternative component, but the feature makes a lot of sense to me.

By the way I love this project. You did an awesome job!