A multi-function chess timer for board games.
Design, scope, implementation
I designed a STM32F0 MCU based PCB with 7-segment displays and tactile buttons for control.
The design is briefly documented on reddit, where I asked for feedback/review of the schematic and PCB layout:
The software was written in C++ with FreeRTOS running on the MCU, squeezed into a STM32F030K6 (32kB flash, 4kB RAM).
Details
The chess timer supports 1-X players and a few different timer modes:
- Fischer and Bonus
- Bronstein Delay
- Simple Delay
- Move Timer
- Move Timer With Save
- Time Counter
I have also added “counters” (up/down counters triggered by pressing the buttons) and a N-sided dice feature.
I ordered the PCBs from Elecrow and mounted all component myself.
I also designed (in the CAD program Fusion 360) and 3D-printed a simple chassis for the chess timer.
Video and pictures
Demonstrating the Fischer and Bonus mode:
Finished PCB, loupe inspection of the 0.8mm pitch MCU pins:
First power on:
Schematics:
3D-model generated in KiCad:
