NeoBlock

Alternative implementation of a TiX clock using NeoPixels on an Arduino, with advanced options in a Python interface when connected over USB.

Arduino requirements:

• NeoPixels. The code is configured to use the NeoPixel Shield, but with some effort it can be configured for any pixel layout.
• Power supply. I run my NeoBlock on low brightness settings using the Arduino power supply, but I do not recommend this. USB power is out of the question, it introduces strange artifacts in the LEDs.
• CmdMessenger, for talking to the client.
• FastLED, for pretty effects and better performance than the Adafruit NeoPixel library.
• Time, for keeping track of time. This library also supports syncing to an external RTC, which would eliminate the need for a PC sync.

Python requirements:

• Python 3.x
• PyCmdMessenger, for talking to the Arduino.
• Tkinter, for the client visuals.
• time, for time syncing.
• sched (optional), for a Tkinter-less sync option