How Do Alarm Clocks Work?

Alarm clocks have been in use for centuries due to their ability to successfully wake even the hardest sleeper from their deep slumber. Today, most alarm clocks have features that vary in appearance, color and model type. You can also choose your method of alarm, which includes music or pre-selected tones.

If you are the type of person who believes that punctuality is a virtue, chances are you use an alarm clock on a daily basis. Have you ever wondered how alarm clocks work? Before you take a deep dive into the inner workings of your alarm clock, you should know that there are two distinct types, analog and digital.

Analog

Analog alarm clocks were the first type invented and come with special benefits. They are created using gears that move both hands of the clock and a wheel that moves back and forth to keep the time reliable and dependable. To activate the alarm function on these clocks, an additional piece is located on the body of the clock; it is separate from the actual timekeeping hands and can be wound until the required alarm setting is reached. Once the appropriate time is set, you can then activate the lever and once the clock reaches the right time, the alarm sounds by using spring action that bears down on the bell. This triggers the sound that awakens you.

Digital

The basis of a digital alarm clock is convenience and variety. They are not made using gears and wheels like analog alarm clocks. Digital alarm clocks use electronic methods to ensure accurate timing. The gears are replaced by computer-based instruments that count time and are monitored in second intervals. The classic face of the analog alarm clock is replaced with soft, LED lights that glow in dark places. The alarm feature differs from the analog clock because digital alarm clocks rely on computer-based programs to provide you with a variety of choices; you can select music or digitally recorded tones.