2025-08-12, 10:15
(2025-08-12, 09:12)heibert Wrote: Hello!
Are there any designs with inexpensive components, such as ESP32, GPS module, and some other modules from AliExpress? There is an SI4732 chip, a digital CMOS AM/FM/SW/LW/RDS radio receiver. Perhaps something else.
A device costing €200-300 is probably not “cheap” for many countries. This will not contribute to the development of the project.
By the way, the project website looks a little unfriendly or abandoned. I can't find the price for the “system mini” kit. The data looks scattered or incomplete, as if it was collected in a hurry. It's a cool global project, but it seems unfinished.
Er... looks like your IP indicates 'Russia'.... sorry to say, there are restrictions on technology exports to some countries, Russia included. Can't help you. I do NOT know if Egon, et.al. have the website, certain pages, etc restricted for IPs in such areas, but I suppose it's possible. Sorry, but unfortunately world politics govern certain things.

Politics are also one major reason component costs and availability took a major jump a few years ago, eventually resulting in the 'less expensive', 'stripped down' system BLUE mini (basic system, with 2 H field channels only) designed, and made available, rather than continuing to produce the 'BLUE Max' 4 channel system. FYI, the cost for the MINI basic today is about the same as the Blue Max was previously. The production / distribution costs for the Max skyrocketed, and REALLY became outrageous. Also, the systems are produced in 'batches' and total costs depend on the 'costs' for the current batch that is 'in stock'. This is a 'non-profit' non-commercial project.
If you just want to play around with 'detecting' lightning, and do it as cheaply as possible, with no intent to locate, define or whatever, a configured AS3935 cheapo can probably be obtained beginning at about $15 US, 13 Euros, or 2000 Rubles...

Best Wishes!