A Word Clock

Step 3: Program the Micro

The next step is to program the Microcontroller.

Just use whatever PIC programmer you use.

The Hex file is attached! Remember to use either the 50Hz or the 60Hz firmware depending on your region.

I have also added support to keep the clock running on battery backup when power is lost.

[Update] - I have updated the 50Hz and 60Hz firmware files - there was a simple coding error that affected the accuracy of the clock.

Comments

[adil.ali2010]

friend
would you please send me pdf fil of this.
thankes.

[drj113]

More than happy to - what is your email address?

Alternately, full construction manuals are at www.dougswordclock.com

Doug

[Dark_Fantom]

Hi there, I'm not the most tech inclined person in the world and was wondering what PIC 16F877i should be using...turns out theres quite a few of em and i can't tell em apart, thanks.

http://search.digikey.com/scripts/DkSearch/dksus.dll

[drj113]

Any of the PIC16F877 components can be used - the diferences between then do not play a factor in this project.

The oscilator runs at 4Mhz, meaning that either 4 or 20 Mhz parts can be used.

[Dark_Fantom]

Ok cool, thanks a bunch. i can't wait to get crackin' on this thing!

[Jekotia]

I am new to the programming side of circuitry. What could I use to program the U1 PIC 16F877? I have no idea how to tell if what would be a compatiable programmer.

[drj113]

I have posted a comment on the type of programmer I use. 
I use a home made programmer that I built on a piece of Veroboard, and a software package from OshSoft that I downloaded for free. (http://www.oshonsoft.com/picprog.html)


Enough people have expressed concern about programming the controller - so - I have chased up pricing, and I am happy to supply pre-programmed micros for people who want them - for the cost of the part to me + just a bit - and postage. - About $15 + postage to wherever you live.

[samkash]

I've been asking that for a few days now, I dont' think anyone wants to help us

[drj113]

I use a home made programmer that I built on a piece of Veroboard, and a software package from OshSoft that I downloaded for free. (http://www.oshonsoft.com/picprog.html)


Enough people have expressed concern about programming the controller - so - I have chased up pricing, and I am happy to supply pre-programmed micros for people who want them - for the cost of the part to me + just a bit - and postage. - About $15 + postage to wherever you live.

[Masterkent]

(removed by author or community request)

[samkash]

Thank you! this is exactly the kind of answer I've been looking for. That is the exact product I had finally discovered on my own, but was afraid to purchase without the opinion of someone who ACTUALLY knew what they were talking about.

I shall now purchase this and create my very own word clock!

[Masterkent]

The PIC chip manufacturer (Microchip) provides one for $35 (PicKit 2 ) and they go up in price from that point. It will program most PIC chips including the 16F877.

There are many 3rd party programmers as well. Just google "Pic programmers" and look at the compatibility list before you buy. I actually have a KitsRUs 149b PIC programmer what was a DIY solder kit.

[drj113]

I use a home made programmer that I built on a piece of Veroboard, and a software package from OshSoft that I downloaded for free. (http://www.oshonsoft.com/picprog.html)


Enough people have expressed concern about programming the controller - so - I have chased up pricing, and I am happy to supply pre-programmed micros for people who want them - for the cost of the part to me + just a bit - and postage. - About $15 + postage to wherever you live.

I am chasing options to make PCBs as well.  I can make limited numbers at home.

I am also looking at constructing controlled boards for sale, if you can make the display part yourself.  Let me know what you would like!

[cyberoidx]

Can I get the C code? I'd like to try this on an Atmega

[Alick87]

When I try to download the hex file it downloads as a .temp file, is this a problem on my part? Love the clock, going to try and make it for a university project in Ireland!

[drj113]

that is interesting - try right clicking on the file and selecting save-as.

[Alick87]

Tried that and tried downloading it at home rather than on my university network, still downloads as a .tmp file!

[aiden120000]

just change the extension to what you wanted

[drj113]

send me your email address - and I will email you the code directly. I am [e-mail]

[petergrech]

I'm in the same boat regarding the file download.. may I ask that you fwd the code directly .. great look great project.. i am [e-mail]