ESP32 Transforms CRT TV Into an '80s-Themed Clock
Adafruit HUZZAH32 ESP32 module feeds visual signals to RCA input devices to show the time.
Today, CRT TVs have largely been supplanted by their flatscreen cousins. If you happen to have an extra unit lying around, then Marcio T's Dali clock build may be just the thing to get it back in action. This project uses an ESP32-based Adafruit HUZZAH32 Feather board to generate clock images, which are piped to the TV's RCA jack.
Here the ESP32 device initially sends visual information via its A1/DAC1 output pin to the RCA connector. As shown in Marcio T's write-up, the output as well as the ground pin can be connected to an RCA cable by alligator clips. Alternatively, a special terminal block and jumper wires can be used for this purpose, which will certainly keep things more secure.
Once code is installed, the user can log on with a phone and configure it to connect to the local network. This allows it to obtain the time via NTP.
With its digits, which appear to melt and morph into one another, background scenery and moving ground surface – all displayed in an Atari color palette – the clock gives off a definite '80s vibe.
Four color schemes are available, which can be set to change based on the time of day. You can also set it up to be able to touch pins A5/4 and A4/36 simultaneously to display the date, using the ESP32’s capacitive sensing capabilities.
