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Propeller Clock Mechanically Scanned LED Clock using PIC16C84

This is the first clock I ever built. I've built a few LED signs, but they get boring because I already know the message.

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Tags: #clock#pic16c84
Ibrar Ayyub By Ibrar Ayyub
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CategoryClocks & Timers
PIC modelPIC16C84
IncludesDownload files
Reading time~3 min

Summary of Propeller Clock Mechanically Scanned LED Clock using PIC16C84

This article details a DIY propeller clock that uses a spinning motor and seven LEDs to create a 7x30 LED array illusion via precise timing. It requires mechanical skills, prior electronics experience, and a salvaged motor from a VCR or floppy drive. The project includes downloadable schematics, source code for PIC16C84/16F84 microprocessors, and PCB layouts, all under the GNU General Public License.

Parts used in Propeller Clock Mechanically Scanned LED Clock:

  • Motor from a dead VCR, floppy drive, or disk drive
  • PIC16C84 or 16F84 microprocessor
  • Seven LEDs
  • Programmer for PIC16C84 or 16F84
  • Printed Circuit Board (PCB)

How this clock works:
A motor spins the "propeller", and a small microprocessor keeps track of time and changes the pattern on seven LEDs with exact timing to simulate a 7 by 30 array of LEDs. It is an illusion, but it works nicely.

Propeller Clock

If you want to build this clock, you will need a few things, including:
Skill with motors and mechanical things.
Prior electronic experience.
A dead VCR or floppy drive or other source of a suitable motor and miscellaneous parts.
A programmer that will program a PIC16C84 or 16F84 microprocessor.

I have provided (almost)everything else:
The Next Page with drawings and plans.

Download:
mclock.txt A full description how to build it.
mclkpart.txt The parts list.
mclock8.asm The source code in Microchip MPASM format.
mclock8.hex The hex code ready to load into a PIC16C84 or 16F84 chip.
mclksch2.gif A large and very readable schematic diagram.
mclkmoto.gif A drawing of the modifications to the motor.

If you can't get that kind of motor, you can use the motor from an old disk drive. This page has a lot of pictures and will take some time to load. If you use a disk drive motor or any other DC motor with brushes 180 degrees apart, you'll need the slightly revised code:
Download:
mclockt3.asm The source code.
mclockt3.hex The hex code ready to put in a chip.

If you don't have any way to put the program into a PIC 16C84 or 16F84 chip, you can build your own programmer.

Printed Circuit Board Layout for a version of the clock.

License:
The hardware design and software are covered under the GNU General Public License.

 

For more detail: Propeller Clock Mechanically Scanned LED Clock using PIC16C84

  • How does this clock work?
    A motor spins a propeller while a microprocessor changes the pattern on seven LEDs with exact timing to simulate a 7 by 30 array of LEDs.
  • What skills are needed to build this clock?
    You need skill with motors and mechanical things as well as prior electronic experience.
  • Where can I get a suitable motor for the project?
    You can use a motor from a dead VCR, floppy drive, or other similar source.
  • Can I use a disk drive motor instead of a VCR motor?
    Yes, you can use a motor from an old disk drive or any DC motor with brushes 180 degrees apart.
  • Which microprocessor is required for this project?
    The project uses a PIC16C84 or 16F84 microprocessor.
  • Is there a programmer available for the microprocessor?
    You will need a programmer that can program a PIC16C84 or 16F84, or you can build your own if you do not have one.
  • What files are provided for building the clock?
    Downloads include mclock.txt, mclkpart.txt, mclock8.asm, mclock8.hex, mclksch2.gif, and mclkmoto.gif.
  • Under what license are the hardware design and software covered?
    The hardware design and software are covered under the GNU General Public License.
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Ibrar Ayyub

Ibrar Ayyub

I am an experienced technical writer holding a Master's degree in computer science from BZU Multan, Pakistan University. With a background spanning various industries, particularly in home automation and engineering, I have honed my skills in crafting clear and concise content. Proficient in leveraging infographics and diagrams, I strive to simplify complex concepts for readers. My strength lies in thorough...