Background:

This is a miniature version of the Life Clock that I have here on Tindie. Its features and and functionality are pretty much the same. Where it differs is in the matrices supported. The mini uses two small low cost single color displays which are included with the kit. Another hardware difference is that it uses an Arduino compatible Pro Mini as its processor.

This makes the Life Clock Mini very compact. It's about 2.5x1.25x1.25". Considering that the 2 matrix displays are included, it is also less expensive. (However, if you'd like a larger matrix that display in 3 colors, check out the full sized Life Clock I have listed.)

Description:

The board uses the Pro Mini to drive the matrix. (Two are supplied but more can be added.) The board also provides a battery backed time clock, external EEPROM (which holds the font and text), speaker, and the IR receiver for the included remote. The remote is used for setting the time, or an optional GPS module can be added to automatically sync the time.

Functions:

The best way to get an idea of the Life Clock's functions is to look at the video, but here is a thumbnail: (Sorry about the quality - hard to photograph!)

• Displays the time and day of the week.
• Hourly chime, alarm, and auto DST set.
• Plays Conway's Game of Life.
• Shows the phase of the moon, days to the next full moon, and name of full moon.
• Displays the time of sunrise and sunset.
• Displays reminders you set for birthdays, etc.

Included / Not Included

The kit includes all parts to build out the board, along with 2 orange-red matrix modules, and a mini-remote. The software is preloaded, however the ability to load the Arduino sketch after personalizing is pretty much required.

Not included the power source, optional GPS module, and case.

For more information, please see the Life Clock Mini Build and User Guide linked on this page. This guide also provides the links to the current software.