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Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →M5StickC Watch “NeckTimer” is a 2019 Hackster.io prototype that turns an M5StickC into a wearable meeting-time reminder. It synchronizes time over Wi‑Fi with NTP, stores the result in the board’s BM8563 real-time clock, shows the date and time, and flashes an external light as a configured end time approaches. It is a maker project—not a commercial timer or a validated meeting-management product.
What the NeckTimer project does
The project was published by aNo研 on 29 September 2019. Its purpose is to make a meeting’s time limit visible without requiring someone to interrupt the discussion verbally. The M5StickC is worn like a watch, while a relay-controlled light provides the increasingly urgent warning.
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The source describes an example target of 17:00. During the first 30 seconds of that target minute, the warning output flashes. The interval becomes shorter after seconds 15, 20 and 25, so the light signals that the configured end time is close. These are code settings in the example, not measured performance targets.
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Project page: Hackster.io M5StickC Watch “NeckTimer”.
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How timekeeping and warnings work
Network time and the RTC
The firmware uses the NTP server ntp.nict.jp and a nine-hour UTC offset to obtain local time. It writes the retrieved time and date to the M5StickC’s BM8563 real-time clock, then reads the RTC for the on-screen display and timing checks. M5Stack documents the RTC and its read functions in its StickC system-functions documentation.
Target-time comparison
The program compares the RTC hour and minute with configured target values. In the published example, the target is 17:00. The warning logic then operates only within the configured 30-second window and changes its flash cadence at the stated second marks.
Rank #2
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External warning output
The project description says a relay switches the lights. Its parts list names a Seeed Studio Grove Relay and a generic LED. The page does not specify the relay model, load rating, complete lamp circuit, isolation details or mains-wiring procedure, so those details cannot be inferred safely from the parts list.
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Parts identified by the project
| Part | Role | What is specified |
|---|---|---|
| M5StickC ESP32-PICO Mini IoT development board | Wearable controller, display, Wi‑Fi and RTC interface | M5Stack lists a 0.96-inch TFT color screen, 80 × 160 resolution and an 80 mAh battery for the original board. It supports a watch base and belt. See the M5StickC Arduino Library. |
| Seeed Studio Grove Relay | Switches the warning-light circuit | The project names the part but does not state an exact model or rated load. |
| Generic LED | Visual warning output | The project does not give the LED’s electrical specifications or a complete circuit. |
| Watch attachment | Holds the controller on the wrist | The original M5StickC is documented with a watch base and belt. |
Building a NeckTimer without guessing the electrical details
- Verify the controller. Confirm that your board is the original M5StickC ESP32-PICO model, not a StickC-Plus or StickC-Plus2.
- Install and review the project firmware. Locate the NTP server, UTC offset, target hour and minute, and warning-window values before changing them.
- Provide Wi‑Fi credentials and test synchronization. Confirm that the displayed date and time are correct after startup.
- Confirm RTC display behavior. Check that the screen updates from the BM8563 RTC after synchronization.
- Connect only a properly rated low-voltage output circuit. Use the relay manufacturer’s pinout, voltage limits and load ratings; the Hackster page does not provide a safe mains-wiring design.
- Test the warning window with a near-term target. Verify the flash pattern and relay behavior using a safe, isolated test load before relying on the device in a meeting.
- Mount the board securely. Check that the watch attachment does not obstruct buttons, the display or charging access.
Original M5StickC versus newer variants
M5Stack’s official store currently marks the original M5StickC development kit EOL. Availability and condition therefore need checking when sourcing one: M5Stack’s original M5StickC store page.
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- M5Stack Series Core Development of Experimental Proto Board suitable for ESP32 Basic Kit and Mpu9250 Kit for Arduino m5stack
| Sourcing consideration | Original M5StickC | StickC-Plus or Plus2 |
|---|---|---|
| Model identity | Matches the board used by the 2019 project. | Different hardware variants; compatibility is not established by this project. |
| Code and pin mapping | Use the project’s assumptions. | Check display dimensions, pin mapping, libraries and firmware changes before substituting. |
| Watch accessories | Original watch base and belt are described by M5Stack. | The Plus Watch Kit is a separate product and fit should be checked; see M5Stack’s StickC-Plus Watch Kit documentation. |
| Availability | Official store listing is marked EOL. | Availability and physical fit depend on the specific variant and accessory kit. |
| Timer performance | Project settings and behavior are documented. | No controlled comparison establishes better timer performance. |
Safety and practical limits
- Do not connect an unknown relay output directly to mains or another hazardous load.
- Identify the exact relay board, coil voltage, contact ratings, isolation and wiring requirements from its manufacturer documentation.
- Use a low-voltage LED test circuit first. The project’s generic LED listing does not establish a resistor value, supply voltage or connection diagram.
- Plan for Wi‑Fi availability: initial NTP synchronization depends on network access, while subsequent behavior uses the RTC.
- Treat the device as a reminder aid. It has no evidence of independent timing validation, meeting-policy integration or commercial reliability testing.
Who should build it?
NeckTimer suits makers who want a visible, wearable deadline cue and are comfortable adapting ESP32 firmware and low-voltage electronics. It is less suitable if you need a finished product, a specified industrial relay interface, certified mains switching, or a guaranteed replacement for a production timekeeping system.
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