"SIMON SAYS" GAME
Circuit and program by Phil Townshend 2005

OK I admit there are a few of these available from component manufacturers such as RAPID and MAPLIN but they just don't seem to add the finishing touches. For example, the one from RAPID can only go up to 14 step sequence. why? What happens if you can do more, and I know someone that could do up to 24 step sequence (nice one Abi) but being a dance teacher, I guess remembering sequences is her forte.

This version is most similar to the functioof the original Simon Game sold back in the 1970's for those of you that remember it - here's a flash from the past.

A more recent version finished with enamel paints on a vacuum formed cover
For those who are not familiar, the game simply plays a random sequence of 4 different colours/pitches which you have to repeat. The sequence starts with one step and gets progressively longer each time you repeat a sequence correctly. The version I have written has a few extra features:
  • Can produce up to 63 steps - try that Abi!!
  • Has much better sound generation - a speaker rather than a piezo buzzer
  • Gives you a quick reminder every minute if you leave it on
  • Remembers last sequence and longest - EVEN when the power is off. Can also be reset if desired.
  • Can drive higher currents for light bulbs instead of LED's if desired - higher currents with Darlington drivers.

So at the moment of writing, I don't know of one with better specs than that!

Before any details on case
CIRCUIT DIAGRAM

The circuit is based around a low end PIC, 12F629, a very versatile device all the same. Outputs to LED's or bulbs are driven by Q1-4 and the current capability of these dictate the output current, within reason. Do remember that all current goes through D1 and so should be uprated if current per output is greater than about 200mA.

A pre-programmed PIC is available from our shop.
PCB layout:

PCB Dimensions = 70mm x 45mm

There are 2 types of PCB available. One is designed for direct connection to a 6volt supply, and the other has a voltage regulator on board and accepts any voltage from 9-18volts. This also means output devices can be of higher value also.

DOWNLOADS:
These two versions are very similar. The circuit board, battery holder and speaker are mounted on the MDF base. This also help the speaker by acting as a sounding board to a certain extent. The switches and LED's are mounted in the cover which in both cases is vacuum formed used 1.5mm white polystyrene and painted with enamel paints. This takes a great deal of care but produces a good finish and is fairly hard wearing. A layer of enamel laquer can also be applied to help protect the paint finish.

Interior view of the version made by Holly

Interior view of version made by Yazmin
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