Skip to content

Chrono Smart Clock Kit

Chrono Smart Clock Kit

A round-screen smart clock on a Pico W that sets its own time from the internet and shows the weather, a stopwatch, and a timer. It has 13 labs, needs no soldering, and is for ages 10 and up.

Source book: Clocks and Watches
Kit page: https://dmccreary.github.io/clocks-and-watches/kits/sw-gc9b72/
Printable one-pager: clocks-and-watches-sw-gc9b72-one-pager.html

Features

  • Set its own time. It asks the internet what time it is, so it is never
  • Show the time your way. Pick giant digital numbers or an old-style
  • Tell you the weather. Today's and tomorrow's forecast appear with
  • Time laps and count down. It works as a stopwatch that records laps
  • Switch with one button. Press MODE to step through all five faces.

Benefits

  • Free, open lessons: the Clocks and Watches textbook has the kit page, wiring, and MicroPython code.
  • Ready-made curriculum: 14 additional lab pages walk students through the build step by step.
  • Classroom friendly: built on a solderless breadboard or no-solder connectors.
  • Wireless-ready: the Pico W option adds Wi-Fi for time sync and web projects.
  • Instant feedback: students see their code's results on lights or a display.
  • Budget: under $20.

Parts

  • Raspberry Pi Pico W ($5) — Microcontroller with Wireless
  • GC9A01 Round TFT ($3.19) — Display
  • GC9B72 Smartwatch Display ($5.39) — Display
  • Momentary Push Buttons — Input button / switch
  • Piezo Buzzer / Speaker — Sound output
  • 830-Point Breadboard ($1.10) — Breadboard
  • Micro-USB Data Cable ($2.50) — Power and programming cable