How to Read a Binary Clock
If you can do simple addition, then you can read a binary clock. You don't have to be a computer nerd or a geek either! Once you get the hang of it, telling time will be more fun and you'll be able to impress your friends.
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Instructions
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1
Look at a binary clock. It is made up of six columns, each with a set of lights (LEDs). Each LED represents a power of 2, up to 8 (23).
8=23
4=22
2=2
1=20
When the LEDs are illuminated, they are used to tell the time. -
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To tell the time on a binary clock, go from left to right.
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Add the value of each column of illuminated LEDs using the 8, 4, 2, 1 down the side. This will tell you the hours, minutes and seconds.
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To find the hours, add the value of the illuminated LEDs in the first and second columns on the left. If no LED is illuminated in the first column, move to the second column. Add the value of those illuminated LEDs.
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5
To find the minutes, add the value of the illuminated LEDs in the third and fourth (middle) columns. Again if no LEDs are illuminated in the third column, move to the fourth column and add the value of the illuminated LEDs.
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To find the seconds, add the value of the illuminated LEDs in the fifth and sixth columns (last two columns on the right). The illuminated LEDs will constantly be moving because they are counting the seconds.
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Tips & Warnings
LEDs only have two modes: on or off. If an LED is not illuminated, do not include it as you determine the time.
Some binary clocks are presented in a horizontal format. It is read the same way, just horizontally.
Some binary clocks are based on "true binary." This is harder to read as it only uses three columns to represent the time. The power of two goes higher: 32=25 16=24 8=23 4=22 2=2 1=20
