Kitronik Alarm Clock Kit with ZIP Halo HD for micro:bit

Explore time, light, and also sound with the Kitronik Alarm Clock Kit, a fun and hands-on introduction to the ZIP Halo HD.

KITRONIK ALARM CLOCK KIT

The Kitronik Alarm Clock Kit with ZIP Halo HD for microbit provides a fun introduction to features of Halo HD. This kit features a modified version of Halo HD, all of the parts required to build the clock, and also power accessories. We have included an easy-to-follow tutorial book which will guide you through building your clock. Additionally, there are online tutorials within MakeCode.

The modified version of Halo HD changes are as follows; power is now provided via a 2.1mm barrel jack connection and there is also a coin cell holder fitted to the rear of the board. When a 1220 coin cell battery is inserted, it will then provide power to the RTC chip when no power is being supplied to Halo HD. 

ZIP HALO HD

The Kitronik Halo HD board for the BBC micro:bit incorporates 60 individually addressable full-colour ZIP LEDs. It also breaks out P1/P2 to a standard 0.1” footprint, it features a MEMS mic for detection of sound, and a buzzer to play sound. It also features an onboard real-time clock (RTC). The board has M3 mounting holes for a more sturdy project. 

Kitronik has created custom blocks for the ZIP Halo HD for use with MakeCode. To add these blocks; Under the “Advanced” section click on “Extensions”. In the next window search for “Halo HD”. Then, click on the tile to import it into MakeCode. You will see that the blocks are split across three categories; ZIP LEDs, Microphone and Clock. For those requiring more of a challenge, the Alarm Clock Kit kit can also be coded with MicroPython.

ONLINE RESOURCES

Kitronik has also produced 4 tutorials for you to explore once you've finished the supplied booklet. The tutorials are in two formats, downloadable PDFs and also as tutorials embedded in the MakeCode editor. You can find the links to all at the bottom of this page. Kitronik has also produced some example MicroPython code that covers how to code a basic clock.

POWERING THE ALARM CLOCK KIT

The ZIP Halo HD supplied with this kit is powered via a 2.1mm Barrel jack connection. The kit is supplied with a 3 x AA Battery Cage with Lead and 2.1mm DC jack. The adapter cable is for use with a separate power supply (not included). A regulated supply is produced on the board to power the connected BBC micro:bit. Halo HD has also been fitted with an ON/OFF switch, switch it off when not in use and the onboard coin cell will keep the memory of the RTC chip alive.

NOTE

• The BBC micro:bit is NOT included in this kit.
• No soldering is required.
• Some quick and simple mechanical assembly is required.
• Ensure that when using a power supply that it is rated for at least 1A and 5V.

Kitronik Alarm Clock Kit Features

• Learn how to create & then code exciting projects that explore time, light & sound.
• The kit is backed up by a range of fun tutorials that introduce you to the exciting features of the Alarm Clock Kit.
• All of the tutorials and resources are free.
• No soldering required and mechanical assembly is super simple.
• The board features CR1220 3V coin cell battery holder that acts as a clock battery backup for the RTC chip when a battery is inserted.
• The backup battery can last for up to 2 years. Experiences may vary from battery to battery and also from situation to situation.

ZIP Halo HD for microbit Features

• The board features 60 individually addressable full-colour ZIP LEDs.
• P1 and P2 are broken out to a standard 0.1” footprint.
• It includes a MEMS microphone and a piezo buzzer.
• It has an onboard Real-time clock (RTC)).
• The On/off switch helps you maximise battery life, CR1220 3V coin cell will then protect the RTCs memory.
• Code it with MakeCode using Kitronik custom blocks.
• It can also be coded with MicroPython.
• M3 Mounting holes, for more secure projects.

Contents

• 1 x Kitronik Halo HD for BBC micro:bit.
• 4 x 8mm M3 machine screws.
• 1 x Set of laser cut Perspex stand parts.
• 1 x CR1220 3V coin cell battery.
• 2 x Plastic spacers.
• 3 x AA Battery Cage with Lead and 2.1mm DC jack
• A USB-B to 2.1mm jack cable, rated for 5V, 1.5A.
• Getting started booklet.
• A plastic reusable shipping and storage container.

Dimensions

• ZIP Halo HD Diameter: 87mm.
• M3 Mounting Holes Spacing (Center to Center): 68.4mm.

Requires

• Instead of batteries: A suitable 5V, 1A USB Power Supply.
• For coding, you need a computer with a spare USB port and also an active internet connection.
• Screwdriver.

Resources

• Additional Online MakeCode Tutorials.
• MicroPython Example Code for a Simple Clock.
• Basic Clock Tutorial.
• Adjustable Clock Tutorial.
• Alarm Clock Tutorial.
• Wake Up Alarm Clock Tutorial.
• Tech Talks - live stream playback.