Hamster Wheel Tracker

Cloud, my dwarf hamster, loves to run in his hamster wheel during the night. I was wondering how far and fast he runs. So I decided to install a speedometer and track him secretly. 

To track your hamster's wheel with a speedometer using magnets, you can follow the following steps:

Supplies

• Bicycle speedometer (digital preferred for ease of use)
• Magnets (small neodymium magnets work well)
• Magnet sensor (comes with the bicycle speedometer)
• Strong adhesive (like super glue or epoxy)
• Cable ties or tape (for securing wires)

Step 1: Attach the Magnet to the Wheel

• Clean a spot on the outer edge of the hamster wheel where you can securely attach a small magnet.
• Use a strong adhesive to attach the magnet to this spot. Ensure it is securely fastened to avoid it flying off when the wheel spins.

Step 2: Install the Magnet Sensor

• Position the sensor on the hamster wheel’s frame in such a way that the magnet passes very close to it during each rotation. The sensor should be positioned within a few millimeters of the magnet.
• Use cable ties or tape to secure the sensor in place. Ensure it’s stable and won’t move as the wheel spins.

Step 3: Connect the Speedometer

The speedometer will have a wire or wireless connection to the sensor. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to connect the sensor to the speedometer display.

If the speedometer is wired, route the wire along the frame of the wheel, securing it with cable ties or tape to keep it out of the way.

Step 4: Calibrate the Speedometer

Set the wheel circumference on the speedometer. Measure the diameter of the hamster wheel and calculate the circumference (Circumference = π × Diameter).

Enter this value into the speedometer's settings according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer.

Step 5: Test the Setup

• Spin the wheel manually to ensure the sensor detects the magnet each time it passes by. The speedometer should display a speed reading when the wheel is in motion.
• Adjust the position of the magnet or sensor if the speedometer is not detecting the magnet reliably.

Step 6: Monitor Your Hamster

Once set up, the speedometer will track the speed and distance as your hamster runs on the wheel.

Some speedometers have additional features like recording total distance traveled or average speed, which can provide more insights into your hamster’s activity.

Step 7: Tips

• Ensure the magnet and sensor are aligned properly for accurate readings.
• Regularly check that the magnet is still securely attached to the wheel.
• If using a wireless speedometer, ensure the signal range is sufficient to reach the display unit from the wheel.

This setup will allow you to track the activity of your hamster with a bicycle speedometer, providing you with interesting data on their exercise habits.

Who would have thought that a hamster runs this much! Although tiny, Cloud runs around 18km in one night. I wouldn't be able to keep up with him. :-)