What

This is a digital clock made with the LED display from a microwave found on the street. Four micro-switches taken from that and another microwave are used for input, providing a very satisfying click. The clock can be switched to two other modes—random segments changing each second for a beautiful nonsensical clock, and a Frogger-type game. The Frogger game is quite engaging and takes about 2 minutes to play, with a time given at the end so the player is encouraged to try to beat their time. The circuitry includes a real-time clock module so the time is saved if the device loses power. The electronics are programmed with a Teensy-LC microcontroller in Arduino, and the code is posted on the Github link below. See the documentation for directions on using each mode. The electronics are housed in melted and welded sheets of single-use HDPE plastic from various containers for laundry detergent and milk.

Why

I really enjoy salvaging displays from discarded, non-working electronics and puzzling out ways to give them a second life. Since the displays contain the standard 7 segments plus additional display elements it's interesting to find ways of using the available lights for different animations, and in this case figuring out how to fit a game into it.

What makes it special?

The combination clock/micro-game is unique, as well as the use of many salvaged parts and materials. Melting different colors of plastic produces unexpected and interesting results, as well as providing a very durable case. The electronics are secured to the case with high quality nylon screws and standoffs ordered from Adafruit. The circuitry is made with a custom-designed and milled single-sided circuit board.