2025 Hertz Challenge Unveiled: A Modernized and Improved 555 Circuit Design
In the world of electronics, a new project has caught the attention of enthusiasts – the "Open Source 1Hz Blinky" by Matt Venn. This unique submission to the One Hertz Challenge showcases an innovative implementation of a 555 timer, a basic electronics staple used for blinking an LED at one hertz[1].
Unlike traditional approaches, Venn opted for a smaller, more compact design using Tiny Tapeout 6, an open Process Design Kit that allows anyone to produce ASICs on custom silicon[2]. The 555 timer in the project is not a standard one available from Digikey, but rather a fully integrated 555 timer circuit, designed by Vincent Fusco and fabricated on a tiny piece of silicon through the Tiny Tapeout 6 multi-project wafer service[3].
The project's standout feature is its use of the Tiny Tapeout web interface for chip configuration. This allows for the 555 timer to be set up and run, resulting in an LED that blinks at approximately one hertz frequency[1].
While the output may not qualify for the Timelord category due to the slight deviation from exactly one hertz, the "Open Source 1Hz Blinky" project is still a strong competitor for other 555-based projects[4]. The project's success underscores the potential of creating traditional analog/digital IC functions, such as a classic 555 timer, on accessible open silicon platforms rather than buying a standard chip[5].
In essence, the "Open Source 1Hz Blinky" project demonstrates a novel way to create a historic timer IC function on modern entry-level open custom silicon, blending classic analog design with the open ASIC movement. It's a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of the electronics community, and a reminder that even the most basic projects can be approached with a fresh, innovative perspective.
[1] The exact output frequency may vary slightly due to the custom silicon implementation. [2] Tiny Tapeout is an open source platform that allows anyone to design and tape out small custom chips. [3] The 555 timer used in the project is not a standard one available from Digikey. [4] The "Open Source 1Hz Blinky" project might not qualify for the Timelord category due to the output not being exactly One Hertz. [5] The project showcases the feasibility of creating traditional analog/digital IC functions on accessible open silicon platforms.
- This project, the "Open Source 1Hz Blinky" by Matt Venn, innovatively uses open source technology like Tiny Tapeout 6 to create a historic timer IC function on modern, entry-level open custom silicon, blending classic analog design with the open ASIC movement.
- Instead of purchasing standard gadgets, this project demonstrates the potential of the electronics community to create traditional electronics functions, such as a classic 555 timer, on accessible open silicon platforms using open source methods, such as Tiny Tapeout.
