FunTime, a DIY wall clock that doubles up as automatic night lamp
FunTime is a simple DIY clock kit, that doubles up as automatic night lamp. There are numerous very good clock kits and projects out there. When I started to build this, I wanted to make one which I could use it in my home! Hence the design is simple yet cool. While building this kit we learn about how time is computed, converted to secs, mins, hours, days and eventually into years! We will also learn about measuring light and controlling a LED depending on time and light. The end goal is build a cool wall clock, use the time and the light intensity to turn on the night lamp. So let's get started!
Schematic
You may download the pdf version of the schematic.
Hook up
Soldering on a Perf Board
These are all the parts you will need.
We will start out by cutting the perf board, so that it fits in the enclosure. It will be difficult to solder the components and then cut the perf-board.
The blank perf board of standard size 9CM x 15CM.
Cut out the shape as desired, we wanted to make it look like cloud.
Start soldering the components. It is better to fix the display and switches first, so that they align with the cut-outs made on the enclosure.
Now solder the remaining parts as per the schematic.
Before you go ahead and it turn it, check the following the things:
- The GND and VCC of the circuit are not short.
- Visually verify, look for any solder blobs, shorts etc.
- Burn the bootloader and the code using a programmer to the chip.
Turn on the kit and see if it displays the time set in the code.
Now its time to put the acrylic case on!