LED Menorah using ATtiny13 microcontroller

Last week on hack-a-day I saw their post on an LED Menorah that was powered by a 9v battery with the lights controlled by dip switches. I thought to myself, “gee, that’s not a very creative design”. There was redemption in the minimalist designs linked too showing a menorah soldered to a tiny2313 and one soldered to an LM2913, both without a circuit board.
LED Menorah
These free formed designs were creative but a little too down and dirty for me. I thought I could do better, and immediately thought of the handful of tiny13 8-pin microprocessors I had sitting around. I wanted to make a menorah with the following features in mind:

  • Controlled by an AVR ATtiny13
  • Powered by ~3v (unregulated to save on parts)
  • One button operation
  • Sleep mode when the menorah “burns out” after an hour or so

I’m happy to say I did accomplish all of my goals.  More after the break.
For more pictures check out my Instructable of this project:
http://www.instructables.com/id/LED_Hanukkah_Menorah/
Parts List

  • Power supply that puts out between 2.7v and 3.3v.
  • 9 LEDs (I used white)
  • 4 resistors (22ohm)
  • 1 momentary push button
  • 1 pin header (2 pins)
  • 1 DIP socket (8 pins)
  • 1 AVR ATtiny13 microcontroller
  • 1 Circuit board of some type

About The Author

Ibrar Ayyub

I am an experienced technical writer with a Master's degree in computer science from BZU Multan University. I have written for various industries, mainly home automation and engineering. My writing style is clear and simple, and I am skilled in using infographics and diagrams. I am a great researcher and am able to present information in a well-organized and logical manner.

Follow Us:
LinkedinTwitter

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top