OPTIMIZATION OF EGG INCUBATOR TEMPERATURE AND HUMIDITY USING THE STC-1000 THERMOSTAT TO ACHIEVE FARMER SELF-SUFFIENCY

Abstract

This study discusses the design and optimization of a poultry egg incubator system using an STC-1000 digital thermostat as the primary temperature controller and an automatic humidification system to maintain optimal humidity during the incubation process. The objective of this research was to design a simple, cost-effective, and easy-to-operate device for small-scale farmers to support self-sufficiency in poultry production. The research methodology uses a laboratory experimental approach with a single-factor design, namely the STC-1000 automatic temperature control system. The incubator was designed using 4 pieces 40-watt incandescent lamp heating element, an ultrasonic humidifier, and a built-in STC-1000 temperature sensor. Tests were conducted for 21 days on 100 broiler chicken eggs. The results showed that the system maintained a stable temperature of 37–38°C with a deviation of ±0.3°C, and an average humidity of 55–60%. Of the total incubated eggs, 85% hatched, an increase of approximately 15% compared to manual methods without automatic controls. With a total construction cost of under Rp 500,000, this device has proven to be efficient, easy to use, and has significant potential to support the independence of local poultry farmers.