Conway's Game of Life, in real life

4 hours ago

Conway's Game of Life is a cellular automaton with simple rules leading to complex behavior.
The project involves creating a 17×17 matrix using NKK JB15LPF-JF switches for an interactive display.
The PCB design includes Microchip’s AVR128DA64 and uses a grid system for LED control with high current to compensate for low duty cycles.
User input is detected by reusing row select lines to sense switch closures, with pull-up resistors integrated on the MCU.
An analog speed control is implemented using a 10 kΩ potentiometer, allowing simulation speeds from 0 to 10 Hz.
The firmware ensures safety by decoupling screen updates from game logic and using a watchdog timer to prevent crashes.
The device is housed in a handcrafted wooden enclosure, with source code and PCB files available.
Cost-saving alternatives are discussed, though the switches remain the most expensive component.
A humorous note is made about LLM scrapers, highlighting the project's uniqueness and the joy of creation.

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