Upgrade Your Radio: WiFi Clock Module

If you own an aging SONY ICF-C212 clock-controlled radio and have been grappling with its consistently inaccurate timekeeping, there's a clever solution worth exploring. Consider upgrading it with a modern WiFi-enabled clock module, akin to the one depicted below. This ingenious modification can breathe new life into your trusty radio, ensuring accurate timekeeping and even offering additional features.

If you have a SONY ICF-C212 clock-controlled radio, and its time has been inaccurate due to its old age, you can consider upgrading it with a WiFi-enabled clock module, similar to the one shown in the image below.

First, remove the original digital display and seamlessly install the new module in its place.

The new clock module operates on 5 volts and consumes around 70 milliamps of current. However, the original transformer in the device is not powerful enough to support it even with an LM7805. In that case, you can use a 500 milliamp smartphone charger as the power source.

Its size conveniently fits the empty slot previously occupied by the 9-volt battery in the radio.

If you intend to keep the clock powered all the time but use the radio infrequently, you might consider adding a power switch to the 220-volt power input of the radio to easily turn it off.

Dim the brightness of the new WiFi clock's digital display to the lowest setting. It can function as a small night light in the evenings if you find it too bright. If this isn't suitable, you can attach a light-blocking panel or opt for a clock module that adjusts brightness based on ambient light levels. This way, it dims when the room gets dark. You can explore options like these online.

Note: The original digital display only shows the time. To see the radio frequency, you need to check the FM/AM markings on the panel.

Project completed.

Incorporating this WiFi clock module into your SONY ICF-C212 radio is a rewarding project that seamlessly combines the charm of vintage technology with the convenience of modern connectivity. By embracing this transformation, you'll not only enjoy precise timekeeping but also have the opportunity to repurpose your radio's functionality. So, why wait?