How to Build a Digital Clock From Scratch
Building a digital clock can be a fun project for electronics hobbyists, and moderately easy for people with the right tools and experience working with electronics. No software or microprocessor is required to complete this type of project. The design process is up to your own creativity once the initial clock parts are completed.
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Things You'll Need
- Solder iron
- Prototype board
- LS47BCD-7 segment drivers
- LS90 counters
- LS590 counters
- LED displays
- LITON Anode
- LTS-5501
- 28 499-ohm resistors
- 2 ohm resistors
- 2 position switches
- Maxim DS32.768 kHz TCXO oscillator
- 50 ohms resistor
- 47pF (Pico Farad) capacitor
Instructions
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Lay the parts of the clock, using the prototype board as a guide. The displays should be placed on top so they can be seen well. Place the hours, minutes and then seconds from left to right. A through-hole package is the easiest to solder; there are boards that have mounting pads as well.
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2
Attach wires as shown on the prototype board, using the soldering iron. Highlight the wires on the board as you solder it, using a standard highlighter. Be careful routing the wires. You will want to be able to debug any circuits easily. This process will be easier if the wires are laid out carefully.
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3
Impedance should be measured before power is supplied. Each device has a power pin and ground pin that need to be checked. The impedance should be greater than 1 ohm (Ω) if the circuit has been wired correctly. If there are any problems, you will be able to trace the pulses to the right place. If you have laid the wires carefully, you will be able to easily follow each.
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The prototype board will contain counters, two of which have push buttons. To set the time, depress each button. If the speed is too fast, rewire the push button to one of the other counters.
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Tips & Warnings
LEDs can be purchased in different colors to give your clock a unique look.
Build in stages so you can test the wiring along the way.
Static can ruin an electronic device. Keep parts away from things that have a built-up charge, such as tape, foam or paper.
