Game show buzzer using a micro controller

[4013Dlatch]

Hi
I'm looking to convert my game show indicator lockout circuit from the original design using 14000 / 4000 series logic to a micro-controller based design, but I do not have a clue what to look for.



Here are the system specs:

• 15 contestant switches N.O.
• 15 corresponding LEDs and aux output in parallel
• 1 LED that comes on if any of the above LEDs is lit
• a reset switch to blank the LEDs and reset the latches
• a buzzer that beeps 0.5s to 1s when a contestant light is triggered or the timer reaches 0
• a timer package that has 5 different push button inputs
• a 5s or 30s on one switch that is selected automatically based on whether or not a contestant has triggered the system
• a 45s switch
• a 60s switch
• a timer pause / hold switch
• a timer reset switch
• a 2 digit 7-seg display
• the timer uses a divided 60Hz signal input coming off of the mains transformer

System requirements:

• Inputs debounced
• timer display can be driven separately
• LEDs can be driven separately
• current systems operate on 8 Volts regulated, with 12 volt AC input clock signal. ( the ability to operate at this voltage is preferable

If I could get info as to what I'm looking for in a micro, in relation to I/O, peripherals, and anything else to consider as I'm totally new to micros.
Also I'm not set on a particular companies micros, so I'm game for almost anything as long as the tools are easy to use.

Mike

[Richard Crowley]

Probably the most popular microcontroller platform out there now is Arduino.
There are a great many people making Arduino clones, some of them <$5

Everything you describe is pretty easy to do with Arduino, even with off-the-shelf I/O expander boards, etc.

There are many resources available online including example circuits and code, tutorials, and peer-assistance on the Arduino forum.

[SL4P]

I'm interested in what you're doing - I've done a few game control systems ... including a licensed version of Wheel of Fortune... and others for on camera TV production.

Not sure where you are located, but if I can be of help, drop a line.
You can take these systems as far as you can imagine...
I've had networked systems with touch-screens, midi integration (for audio cues), power & DMX (lighting effects), multiple displays, projectors etc...

One element that shouldn't be overlooked or underestimated is a (secure) 'pre-game' editor to setup playing conditions etc. -- if your application goes that far.

Cheers

[4013Dlatch]

I'm interested in what you're doing - I've done a few game control systems ... including a licensed version of Wheel of Fortune... and others for on camera TV production.

Not sure where you are located, but if I can be of help, drop a line.
You can take these systems as far as you can imagine...
I've had networked systems with touch-screens, midi integration (for audio cues), power & DMX (lighting effects), multiple displays, projectors etc...

One element that shouldn't be overlooked or underestimated is a (secure) 'pre-game' editor to setup playing conditions etc. -- if your application goes that far.

Cheers

the pre game setup is done with switches.
I'm located in Manitoba Canada

[SL4P]

I guess we're a bit far apart to meet up, but drop a line if up you get stuck... maybe I can help!