ESP8266 WiFi Analog Clock
Introduction
This project uses an WEMOS D1 Mini ESP8266 module and an Arduino sketch to connect to a NTP (Network Time Protocol) server to automatically retrieve and display the local time on a inexpensive analog quartz clock. The ESP8266 reconnects to the NTP server every 15 minutes which keeps the clock accurate. The clock also automatically adjusts for daylight savings time.
WEMOS D1 Mini ESP8266 Module with EERAM IC and Components on a Piece of Perfboard
Schematic
Hardware
I'm using an analog clock with a quartz movement I found at my local Walmart for $3.88. Whatever analog clock you decide to use, its quartz movement will need to be modified so that it can be controlled by the ESP8266 module. Open up the movement (most of them snap together without any fasteners), disconnect the internal coil of the Lavet stepping motor from its quartz oscillator and then solder a wire to each of the coil's leads to make connections for the ESP8266. If you search around on the web you'll find articles showing how others have done it. Be careful when working with the coil. The coil's wires are typically thinner than a human hair and extremely fragile.
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