The Unconventional Design of Chicago Lighthouse Electric Clocks

TLDRChicago Lighthouse electric clocks are a rare find in today's consumer market. They run on AC power but use a quartz clock mechanism instead of an AC motor. The voltage is dropped from 120 volts AC to 1.8 volts DC using a surface mount resistor. Despite their unconventional design, they are safe to use and keep accurate time.

Key insights

⚡️Chicago Lighthouse electric clocks are rare in the consumer market due to advancements in Quartz clocks powered by batteries.

🔌The convenience of battery-powered clocks outweighs the inconvenience of needing to replace the battery.

🕰️AC-powered clocks have disappeared from everyday household use but can still be found in commercial and institutional settings.

🌐Chicago Lighthouse electric clocks use a quartz clock mechanism and run directly on 120 volts AC power.

🔋The voltage is dropped from 120 volts AC to 1.8 volts DC using a surface mount resistor.

Q&A

Why are Chicago Lighthouse electric clocks rare?

—Advancements in Quartz clocks powered by batteries have made them more popular, leading to the disappearance of AC-powered clocks.

What are the benefits of battery-powered clocks over AC-powered clocks?

—Battery-powered clocks are convenient as they eliminate the need for a power outlet and frequent battery replacement.

Where can AC-powered clocks still be found?

—AC-powered clocks are still used in commercial and institutional settings such as schools, hospitals, and train stations.

How do Chicago Lighthouse electric clocks work?

—They use a quartz clock mechanism and run directly on 120 volts AC power, with the voltage being dropped to 1.8 volts DC using a surface mount resistor.

Are Chicago Lighthouse electric clocks safe to use?

—Yes, they are safe to use as they are completely encased in plastic, eliminating any shock hazard to the user.

Timestamped Summary

00:00Chicago Lighthouse electric clocks are a rare find in today's consumer market.

02:44They run on AC power and use a quartz clock mechanism instead of an AC motor.

03:56AC-powered clocks have disappeared from everyday household use but can still be found in commercial and institutional settings.

04:21Chicago Lighthouse electric clocks use a quartz clock mechanism and run directly on 120 volts AC power.

05:32The voltage is dropped from 120 volts AC to 1.8 volts DC using a surface mount resistor.

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