DIY LED Dot Matrix Electronic Hourglass Gravity Timer Kit
Build Your Own Gravity-Sensing LED Hourglass Timer
The LOTHYE DIY Electronic Hourglass Kit is a hands-on soldering project that assembles into a fully functional, gravity-sensing countdown timer. Using an LED dot matrix display, simulated "sand grains" flow realistically downward in response to gravity — flip the board and the particles cascade in the opposite direction, just like a real hourglass. Perfect for electronics students, hobbyists, and anyone looking to sharpen their soldering skills. Made in Mainland China.
Key Features
- Realistic Sand Simulation: Animated LED particles mimic the flow of real sand under gravitational pull — invert the board and they instantly reverse direction.
- Gravity Sensing Technology: Built-in accelerometer detects orientation changes and updates the display in real time for a truly immersive visual effect.
- Customisable Countdown Timer: Set any duration from 1 to 99 minutes using the onboard buttons; the hourglass automatically adjusts LED flow speed to match your chosen time.
- Dual Power Options: Powered via Micro USB (DC 5V) or an external battery pack — great for desktop use or portable projects.
- Selectable Display Colours: Choose between Red, Blue, or Green LEDs to suit your workspace or project aesthetic.
- DIY Soldering Kit: Shipped as individual components with a PCB — requires self-assembly by soldering, making it an ideal training exercise for school electronics classes, maker spaces, and science fairs.
Specifications
| Power Supply Voltage | DC 5V |
| Power Interface | Micro USB |
| PCB Board Dimensions | 10 × 5 cm |
| Display Colours | Red, Blue, Green (selectable) |
| Countdown Range | 01 – 99 minutes |
| Condition | New |
| Country of Origin | Made in Mainland China |
Who Is This For?
This kit is ideal for:
- High school and university electronics students learning PCB soldering
- Maker enthusiasts who enjoy DIY circuit assembly projects
- Science teachers looking for engaging classroom demonstration tools
- Hobbyists who want a unique, functional desktop display piece
- STEM outreach events, science fairs, and coding/electronics clubs
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need soldering experience to assemble this DIY LED hourglass kit?
A: Basic soldering skills are recommended. The kit is designed as a training tool, so it is well-suited for beginners who are learning to solder, provided they have access to a soldering iron and follow the included assembly instructions carefully. It is a great first or early-stage soldering project for school students and hobbyists.
Q: Does the LED dot matrix hourglass kit include a power adapter or batteries?
A: The kit supports Micro USB (DC 5V) power, which can be supplied via a standard USB phone charger or a USB power bank. A power adapter and batteries are not included — you will need to supply your own Micro USB cable and 5V power source or compatible external battery pack.
Q: Can I change the LED display colour after the kit is assembled?
A: Yes! The kit offers a choice of Red, Blue, or Green LED dot matrix display. The colour is selected at the time of assembly based on the LED components included or chosen during ordering — check the product variant options to select your preferred colour before purchasing.
Q: How accurate is the countdown timer on this electronic hourglass?
A: The onboard microcontroller provides precise digital timing from 1 to 99 minutes. The LED "sand" flow rate is automatically calibrated to match your set duration, giving both an accurate countdown and a visually satisfying animated display throughout the entire timing cycle.