Create an Automated Countdown Timer from a Text File with Python

Learn how to read times from a .txt file and countdown to each event using Python, perfect for integrations with Raspberry Pi and LED boards.
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Create an Automated Countdown Timer from a Text File with Python

If you're working with time-sensitive events and want to automate reminders, creating a countdown timer in Python can be an excellent solution. This guide will guide you through the process of reading times from a .txt file and counting down to those times effectively. Whether you're developing a project with a Raspberry Pi or just want to keep track of upcoming events, this method can help streamline your approach.

Understanding the Problem

You have a text file, sorted_passes.txt, that contains a series of events with timestamps. Your goal is to set up a countdown timer that notifies you of each event as the time approaches. Here's an example of what the contents of your file might look like:

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You essentially have two options for the countdown functionality:

Countdown to the next time in the file and move sequentially through the list.

Count down to each time independently.

In this post, we will explore how to implement the first option with a focus on readability and simplicity.

Step-by-Step Solution

1. Set Up Your Python Environment

Before we get into the code, make sure that you have Python installed. You can check the installation by running the following command in your terminal:

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2. Write the Countdown Timer Code

Here’s the complete code that accomplishes the countdown functionality. Let's break it down into manageable parts.

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3. Code Explanation

Compare Function: This function checks whether the current time is before the event time and calculates the difference, printing the countdown.

Extract Timestamp Function: This function extracts the date and time from each line in the format specified, converting it into a datetime object.

Open File Function: Opens the sorted_passes.txt file and reads all lines into a list.

Main Loop: Iterates through each timestamp, calling the compare() function to count down and print the time difference. The loop continues until each timestamp is processed.

4. Run the Program

To run your countdown timer, save your code in a Python file, say countdown_timer.py, and execute it using:

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5. Example Output

Once the countdown begins, your output will look something like this:

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Final Thoughts

By following these steps, you've created a functioning countdown timer that can notify you of events listed in a text file. This can be especially useful for time-sensitive tasks related to Raspberry Pi projects or other automated systems. Make sure that the timestamps in your file are in chronological order for everything to work correctly.

Now, you can also expand upon this base solution by adding features, such as integrating a MAX7219 LED display to visually show the countdown.

Happy coding, and may your projects run smoothly!