How to build a better binary clock
November 18, 2023 • project
We do a lot of tutorials here, but in this project we stop and put it all together by building a special type of clock: a binary clock. It uses WS2812 NeoPixel LEDs to display the time, a rotary encoder to adjust it, and the DS1302 real-time clock IC to keep the time, even if the power cuts out. So let's get started and build this thing! Keep reading.
Making a safe with servos & NE555 timers
August 27, 2022 • project
If you are searching for a fun, beginner-friendly electronics project: look no further. Today we will build a simple safe using basic components such as servo motors and NE555 timer chips. We will go through all steps in great detail, and in the end you will have your very own safe. Let's go! Keep reading.
Building an analog clock with a microcontroller
April 30, 2022 • project
Microcontrollers are digital devices, but in this project we will turn it around and use a PIC microcontroller to build an analog clock using a panel meter. And what's more, we will make use of the SLEEP mode of the PIC microcontroller so that this circuit can be run off of batteries and keep the time for decades when not powered on. Keep reading.
CD4017 code lock with wrong code detection
February 28, 2021 • project
Some time ago we learned how to use the CD4017 decimal counter integrated circuit, and in this project we will use it to build an advanced digital code lock with a built-in “wrong code alarm.” This circuit is quite reliable because it detects any wrong code attempts, which also makes this circuit rather unique among all the other CD4017 code lock varieties out there. Keep reading.
How to make a scrolling text display
March 3, 2020 • project
Some time ago we learned how to use shift registers with microcontrollers, and in this project we will use them together with the PIC16F1455 microcontroller to build a scrolling text display. In this article we will go through all necessary steps so that you can easily build your own! Let's go :) Keep reading.
A realistic, flickering electronic candle
December 15, 2019 • project
It's winter, it's getting cold outside, so let's light up an electronic candle to fill our hearts and houses with warmth! This project will teach us a lot about generating random numbers on a microcontroller with an analog to digital converter and controlling LED brightness via pulse-width modulation. So let's get started! Keep reading.
How to build a binary clock
July 29, 2019 • project
In the last weeks we have learned how to program PIC microcontrollers, how to connect pushbuttons, and how to create a 1Hz time base signal. Now it is time to put it all together and build a clock. But not just any clock, a binary clock! Binary is the number system used by computers, and it is ideally suited to display numbers by using simple LEDs! Let's do it! Keep reading.
Build your own electronic dice!
June 7, 2019 • project
In the last weeks we have learned a lot about the basics on microcontrollers. In this project, we will combine all that knowledge. We will use a pushbutton, nine LEDs, and a microcontroller to make an electronic dice! How does it work? By pressing the pushbutton, the nine LEDs act as the spots of the dice and show a random number. Let's do it! :) Keep reading.
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