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Smart Binary Clock (ESP32)

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A2L

0.2mm layer, 2 walls, 15% infill
0.2mm layer, 2 walls, 15% infill
Designer
5.7 h
3 plates
5.0(1)

Open in Bambu Studio
Boost
3
7
1
0
4
3
Released 

Bill of Materials

List other parts
  • ESP32 Development Board x 1: The main microcontroller with Wi-Fi for NTP sync
  • White LEDs 5mm x 17: 17 LEDs are required for the 3-column binary display
  • 1K Ohm Resistors x 17: Essential for protecting each LED from overcurrent
  • 74HC595 Shift Register x 3: Used to drive the 17 LEDs using only 3 data pins.
  • DS3231 RTC Module x 1: Provides high-precision hardware time backup
  • Universal Perf-board x 1: For mounting and soldering all the electronic components
  • Hook-up Wire (30 AWG recommended) x 1: For internal wiring between the controller and LEDs.
  • USB Cable (Micro-USB or USB-C) x 1: For power supply and programming the ESP32

Description

Smart Binary Clock (ESP32)

Overview

This is a sleek, 3D-printed binary clock powered by an ESP32 microcontroller. It combines modern technology with a minimalist aesthetic, making it a perfect "geeky" conversation piece for any desk or office.

Key Features

  • NTP Synchronization: The clock automatically fetches precise time over Wi-Fi, ensuring it's always accurate without manual adjustments.
  • RTC Hardware Backup: Includes support for a DS3231 module to maintain time during power outages or when Wi-Fi is unavailable.
  • Efficient LED Driving: Controls 17 LEDs using only 3 data pins through a daisy-chain of shift registers.
  • Optimized for Bambu Lab A1: The enclosure is specifically designed for high-quality results on the Bambu Lab A1 printer.

How to Read the Time

The LEDs are organized into three vertical columns: Hours (Left), Minutes (Center), and Seconds (Right). Each row represents a binary bit value (from bottom to top):

  • Row 1: 1
  • Row 2: 2
  • Row 3: 4
  • Row 4: 8
  • Row 5 (Hours Only): 16

Simply sum the values of the lit LEDs in each column to read the current time.

Bill of Materials (BOM)

  • Microcontroller: 1x ESP32 Development Board (e.g., ESP32 DevKit V1).
  • Display: 17x Blue LEDs (5mm or 3mm).
  • Resistors: 17x 1K Ohm resistors (one for each LED to ensure stable current).
  • Logic: 3x 74HC595 Shift Registers (daisy-chained).
  • Timekeeping: 1x DS3231 RTC Module for high-precision hardware backup.
  • Power: 1x USB Cable (Micro-USB or USB-C, depending on your ESP32 board).
  • Prototyping: 1x Perf-board or custom PCB, plus jumper wires for connections.

Source Code & Documentation

The full source code with detailed English comments and license info is available on my GitHub repository: https://github.com/yossiRav/Smart-Binary-Clock


Documentation (1)

Assembly Guide (1)
binary_clock_wiring.pdf

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