# Circuit design for a novice

1. Dec 18, 2005

### zanazzi78

I want to try and build an LED clock.

The idea is to have a sequence of LEDs that light up one at a time at a regular time period over a pre-definied time. Once the all the LED's are on then they start to go off one at a time.

I thought I'd just try and get 5 LED's to light up one at at time first.

My problem is i have never designed any form of circuit.

I know how LED's , capasitors, resistors and inductors etc. work, but to try and integrate these components into something useful is beyond my current understanding so I'm asking for a little guidence.

HOw do you get a sequence of LEDs to light up one at a time?

2. Dec 18, 2005

### Ouabache

To understand what you would like to design, I recommend reading up on digital electronics (especially timing circuits) One approach can utilize the following: stable http://www.reference.com/browse/wiki/Quartz_clock [Broken]) that will select which LED to light up or shut off.

If this looks more than you are ready to tackle just now, you could look at some hobby clock circuits. Here is an http://sandpointjunction.no-ip.com/trains/klok_uk.html [Broken] of a clock based in a 555 timer IC.

Last edited by a moderator: May 2, 2017
3. Dec 18, 2005

### dlgoff

Check out http://www.hobbyprojects.com/C/Counters_and_Timer_Circuits.html" [Broken].
Regards

Last edited by a moderator: May 2, 2017