I developed the analog-digital puzzle for a geocache mystery, but it also works in escape rooms or escape games.
It's relatively easy to solve.

Therefore I classify it for Escapes as a beginner level.
The Geochache level is D2

In this manual I describe the example usage in an escape game, but feel free to adapt it to your needs

All you need to create is:

- Pen & Paper or Excel & Printer
- Combination lock with three or more numbers.
- old Card game
- Box or case to lock

Step 1: Create the Puzzle

I created the puzzle myself in Excel. You can of course also draw it by hand.

To do this, I just grouped graphic elements from the flowcharts symbols into an eight like in a digital display
In addition, seven small circles below the eight. These circles are each connected to the seven elements of the display.

Finally, you just have to print out the puzzle.

That's all...

But, How does it work now?
Now we think a little bit 01010100 ... binary ;)

An empty circle is OFF, a filled circle is ON

A filled circle "activates" a display element. Depending on the combination of the seven circles in filled / not filled, a number shows like a real 7-segment display ... only that you have to find it out analogously.

I made a little template for the numbers that fit on my created puzzle.
This template should just not be used in the game, otherwise it will spoil the fun ...

Step 2: Combine Puzzle With Combination-Lock and Box

I use an old cell phone case as a box and a simple 3-number lock from the Cheapstore / Triftshop / LowBudgetStore / 1€-Laden.

The opening code of these cheap locks can usually be set easily.
How this is done with your lock should be stated in the enclosed description.

I simply set the code for my lock to 1 - 2 - 3 for the example and use it to close my box.

So for the next step I only need hide the puzzle combination of the numbers from my "code card"

Step 3: Hide the Code

To hide the code I just use an old card game that is already missing some cards.

As a hint I came up with the phrase "mother and father are looking for the gambling son".
This note indicates the note on the playing cards (gambling son), the required cards and the order

The Number-code for the combination lock is written on the cards Jack (Son), Queen (Mother) and King (Father).

Code for 1 on the Queen
Code for 2 on the King
Code for 3 on the Jack

The other cards are simply provided with the other numbers.

Of course you take the numbers you used for your lock...

Step 4: The Whole Thing Is Expandable / Update

Update: During the night I had the idea to stick the puzzle template on the back of another card so that it fits a little better into the overall picture ...

Update number 2: The best ideas come in the night: Another variant of the puzzle display

Do you want it more difficult?

You can use more cards or other items to hide the code
You can use a combination lock with more numbers.
Hide the cards or Items spread out around the room.

Anything is possible to hide these clues...

Have fun and have a good escape