RC Time Constant Trainer

About this project

TauStrike is a hands-on RC circuit trainer that measures the time constant (τ = RC) experimentally. Arduino Uno times a 100 µF electrolytic capacitor charging through a 10 kΩ resistor until the voltage crosses the critical 63.2 % of Vcc threshold — exactly one time constant. A TM1637 four-digit 7-segment display counts up in milliseconds during the run and locks on the measured τ when the threshold is crossed. The result alternates with the percentage error against the 1000 ms theoretical value. A discharge mode times the inverse: from full charge down to 36.8 % of Vcc. Pre-conditioning logic automatically brings the capacitor to the correct starting voltage before each run, making every measurement repeatable. Green and red LEDs indicate charging and discharging phases; yellow lights on result. A three-note victory chime confirms each successful measurement.

What you get

• Complete, commented source code
• Full components list with quantities
• Pin-by-pin wiring guide and connection table
• Step-by-step upload and testing guide
• Project report (.docx, IEEE style)
• Presentation slides (.pptx)