Hasty Briefsbeta

Multi-Timer Gizmo

14 days ago
  • #RaspberryPi
  • #Time Management
  • #DIY Electronics
  • Dave Gauer built a 'multitimer' in 2021 using a RaspberryPi Pico, featuring three distinct microcontrollers.
  • Inspired by an academic using multiple clocks for tracking commitments, the author explored creating a similar system with battery-powered alarm clocks.
  • Initial attempts involved modifying a cheap alarm clock by adding a toggle switch, but this led to losing some functionalities like the alarm.
  • A simpler solution was found using a 'battery eliminator' to toggle power externally without opening the clock.
  • The project expanded to controlling multiple clocks with a panel of switches, though the setup was amateurish.
  • The author reflected on the joy of tinkering, reminiscent of childhood experiences taking apart electronics.
  • The analog timers are seen as useful for gross time estimates rather than precise tracking.
  • The project resulted in leftover electronics gear, marking the beginning of a small home electronics shop.