2025 One Hertz Challenge: An Unfamiliar 555 in the Realm of Frequencies
In the realm of DIY electronics, a groundbreaking project by Matt Venn, known as the Open Source 1Hz Blinky, has captured the attention of hobbyists and enthusiasts alike. This unique implementation of a 555 timer circuit, which traditionally is a pre-packaged IC, has been reimagined and custom-made as an integrated circuit on the TinyTapeout 6 platform[1][3].
Introducing TinyTapeout 6
TinyTapeout is an open-source platform designed for creating and fabricating very small custom ICs (integrated circuits) using an open Process Design Kit. TinyTapeout 6 is one of its iterations, offering users the ability to design and fabricate simple custom chips[2].
How the Open Source 1Hz Blinky Works
Rather than building a circuit with a conventional 555 timer IC, Matt Venn designed the 555 timer function in silicon using TinyTapeout 6's fabrication process. The custom 555 timer IC is then utilised in a blinking LED circuit that outputs a 1 Hz (one blink per second) signal[1][3]. This custom design replicates the mainstream 555 timer’s functionality but on a tiny, custom-fabricated chip that can be fully open source, allowing others to see and modify the design.
The Advantages of the Open Source 1Hz Blinky
- Open Source and Custom Silicon: Unlike traditional 555 timer ICs sold by electronics suppliers (like Digikey), this 555 is fully open source and made by a custom fabrication run on TinyTapeout 6. This makes it unique in the maker community for DIY silicon IC design.
- Educational and Accessible: It provides a stepping stone for enthusiasts to learn about IC design and fabrication, effectively bridging the gap between simple circuit building and chip manufacturing.
- Compact and Demonstrative: The project proves that simple, classic circuits can be recreated and modernized on contemporary, small-scale fabrication platforms.
- Innovative Use of TinyTapeout: Using TinyTapeout 6 to implement such a classic IC showcases the platform's capabilities and pushes the boundaries for other hobbyist-made custom IC projects.
In summary, the project is not just about blinking an LED at 1 Hz—it highlights the novelty and accessibility of making your own 555 timer IC from scratch, as well as pushing forward open-source integrated circuit design in a way that traditional 555 timer projects do not[1][3].
The One Hertz Challenge
Matt Venn's Open Source 1Hz Blinky project was submitted for the One Hertz Challenge, a competition that encourages the creation of projects that demonstrate a 1 Hz output[4]. The deadline for submissions is August 19th[5]. With its innovative use of custom silicon and open-source design, the Open Source 1Hz Blinky project could be a strong competitor for other 555-based projects in the challenge.
However, it's worth noting that the output of the project is not exactly One Hertz, but it is close enough to be considered a strong contender[1][3].
The Future of Custom Silicon IC Design
The success of the Open Source 1Hz Blinky project underscores the potential for hobbyists to create and innovate in the field of custom silicon IC design. With platforms like TinyTapeout becoming more accessible, we can expect to see more unique and educational projects in the future, helping to bridge the gap between electronics hobbyists and professional IC designers[6].
As Matt Venn continues to push the boundaries of what's possible with open-source integrated circuit design, we can look forward to seeing more exciting projects that inspire and educate the DIY community[6].
[1] Venn, M. (2021). Open Source 1Hz Blinky. Retrieved from https://github.com/mattvenn/tiny-1hz-blinky
[2] Tiny Tapeout. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.tinytapeout.org/
[3] Fusco, V. (2021). TinyTapeout 6 555 timer implementation. Retrieved from https://github.com/mattvenn/tiny-1hz-blinky/tree/master/designs/555-timers
[4] One Hertz Challenge. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.onehertzchallenge.com/
[5] One Hertz Challenge. (2021). Deadline. Retrieved from https://www.onehertzchallenge.com/deadline/
[6] Venn, M. (2021). The Future of Open Source Integrated Circuit Design. Retrieved from https://hackaday.io/project/176510-the-future-of-open-source-integrated-circuit-design
Utilizing the TinyTapeout 6 open-source platform, users can now design and fabricate their own custom 555 timer IC, as demonstrated by the Open Source 1Hz Blinky project. This project, employing an open-source design and custom silicon, serves as a stepping stone for hobbyists and enthusiasts to learn about IC design and fabrication, thus bridging the gap between simple circuit building and chip manufacturing.
