“ArClock is my updating of the “LED clock inside a block of wood” idea. It’s a pretty simple build and the result is eye-catching but tasteful (depending on how it’s configured!).
It’s built around a WiFi-enabled microcontroller driving a matrix of addressable RGB LEDs, inside a 3D printed case covered in wood veneer. It uses a NTP to display accurate time, and can also display local weather and ping times. The configuration is all via a built-in web interface.
Check out the video for a quick intro on how to build and configure it:
Supplies:
The parts required are:
An 8x32 WS2812B LED Matrix. I used the “ECO” type which cuts down the power consumption a little.
A Wemos D1 mini v3 (or clone). Make sure you get the v3 model which has two mounting holes.
Unglued maple wood veneer of at least 330mm x 200mm. Note that an A4 sheet will not be big enough (unless you want to try joining two pieces, which I wouldn’t recommend unless you have some experience).
2.5mm panel mount power socket.
Power diode rated ~1A, such as a 1N4001.
A couple of 3-pin JST connectors
Total parts cost is around $32. You’ll also need:
Access to a 3D printer with a sufficiently large bed. I designed this to support common printers such as Prusa i3 and Creality Ender 3, but if you have something smaller please do check before going any further.
Some hookup wire rated for at least 4A (e.g. 22 AWG).
A 5V power supply with 2.5mm jack. I’d suggest a good quality 4A supply with over-current protection, but it depends on how bright you want the display. 2A is probably adequate in practice, but I prototyped with an 8A supply (after my original one blew up when the brightness went too high!).
Contact adhesive such as Thixofix.
Polyurethane wood varnish (I used one coat of Yacht varnish and two of clear).
Sandpaper of a couple of different grits (around 120 and 200).
Soldering iron & solder.”