Word Clock Glossary

Important questions and answers about word clocks

Welcome to the Word Clock Glossary!

Welcome to our information center - Word Clock Glossary. As a manufacturer of word clocks, we attach great importance to ensuring that you can understand all technical backgrounds, design concepts, and operating options of our models.

On this page, we have compiled the most frequently asked questions about our Jupiter word clocks and BoxClocks for you. Whether it's about how the LED matrix works, operation via the build-yours app, power supply, or sustainability – here you will find in-depth answers to the most important questions about our word clocks.

Jupiter Wordclock with illuminated letters
BoxClock on display

We have answered your questions here:

  1. What is a word clock?
  2. How does a word clock work?
  3. Jupiter Series
  4. BoxClock Series
  5. Light Display
  6. Control & App Connectivity
  7. Modular Principle
  8. Power Supply
  9. Sustainability

Question 1: What is a word clock?

A word clock – often referred to as a Word Clock or letter clock – reinterprets time completely: instead of hands or numbers, time is displayed by precisely illuminated words.

Behind the high-quality front made of materials like PLA, iron, steel, brass, concrete, or stainless steel lies a wooden base with an LED matrix.
A computer chip controls this matrix using custom-developed software. The individual LEDs are targeted specifically to display the time in 5-minute intervals as elegant text.

The result is no ordinary clock, but an intelligent, minimalist light object that combines smart technology with elegant design.

Metal surface with engraved word clock characters

Question 2: How accurate is the word clock and how is it set?

Since our word clocks feature an integrated Wi-Fi module, high time accuracy is guaranteed.
The clock synchronizes regularly via the internet with an NTP server (Network Time Protocol).

Wortuhr with illuminated purple letters

Automatic
Synchronization

As soon as the clock is connected to your Wi-Fi, it retrieves the exact time from the internet. Time deviations are automatically corrected, and daylight saving time adjustments take place without any manual intervention.

Autonomous Operation

If the internet connection is interrupted or not set up at all, the word clock continues to run completely autonomously. An internal Real-Time Clock (RTC) ensures that the time is precisely saved and displayed. As soon as Wi-Fi becomes available again, the clock automatically resynchronizes with the NTP server.

Question 3: What distinguishes the WordClock Jupiter Series?

The Jupiter Series includes our current models of the large-format wall clock. It is based on a modular system consisting of a high-quality linden wood housing and an interchangeable front panel. Users can choose from various materials such as stainless steel, concrete, iron, brass, or PLA, and swap the front without tools whenever desired. The large wall clocks feature a rectangular format of 50 x 40 x 1.5 cm.

Within the series, we distinguish between two development stages:
  • Jupiter 1 (5th Generation): The proven base model of the series.
  • Jupiter 2.0 (6th Generation): The latest evolutionary stage with technical optimizations. [Learn more about the Jupiter 2.0 here]

A key design feature of both models is the "Infinity Edge" design. Here, the front panel is designed to seamlessly blend into the housing structure, achieving a visually frameless and very flat construction that allows for even illumination of the letter matrix all the way to the edge.

Question 4: What is the BoxClock?

The BoxClock is the compact counterpart to the Jupiter Series. While the Jupiter Series is designed as a large-format wall clock, the BoxClock is a smaller tabletop or standing clock.

With its more compact dimensions of 20 x 15 x 3 cm, it is ideal for use on sideboards, shelves, or desks. Despite its smaller size, it offers the exact same range of functions as the wall clocks – including app-controlled connectivity, color selection, and the various material options for the front.

It thus combines the characteristic word clock design with high flexibility in placement. --> View BoxClock now

BoxClock Tisch- und Standuhr auf ein Regal gestellt

Question 5: How do PLA and metal fronts differ in terms of light display?

The appearance of the clock is significantly influenced by the material properties of the front panel:

PLA-Fronten Lichtdarstellung

PLA Fronts

On PLA models, the letters are 3D-printed directly into the material. The LEDs shine through these printed structures, creating a soft, diffused light pattern that merges harmoniously with the surface.

Metall-Fronten Lichtdarstellung

Metal Fronts

On our metal variants (e.g., stainless steel, brass, or iron), the letters are precisely laser-cut. Light emerges directly through these cutouts. This creates sharper letter contours and a stronger contrast between the solid metal and the illuminated text.

Question 6: How is the word clock controlled?

Every word clock in the Jupiter Series and BoxClock lineup features an integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth module. Control is intuitive via the build-yours app, which is available for both iOS and Android. With this app, your word clock transforms into a smart light object that you can comfortably operate from your smartphone or tablet.

Numerous features can be customized individually via the app:

  • Lighting Design: Choose from 16 million colors and control brightness
  • Features: Activate night mode and various special effects.
  • Language Options: Set regional dialects (e.g., regional phrasing options).
App Steuerung der Wortuhr

Question 7: Why are our word clocks modular?

The modular design is at the core of our philosophy and aims for durability and longevity. Our word clocks consist of two main components: a technical base unit and an interchangeable front.

The technical base:

This includes the computer chip, the LED matrix, and internal wiring. We offer two versions for this: the Jupiter 1 base (5th generation) and the further developed Jupiter 2.0 base (6th generation).

The front panel:

The key highlight of our modularity is compatibility. All of our high-quality front panels – whether stainless steel, concrete, iron, brass, or PLA – fit both the Jupiter 1 and Jupiter 2.0 base.

Your benefit:

Instead of replacing the entire clock when you want a new look, you can simply swap the front panel in a few easy steps without any tools. This allows for a style change without purchasing a whole new timepiece, significantly reducing material consumption.

Question 8: How are the word clocks powered?

All of our models – both the large-format wall clocks in the Jupiter Series and the compact BoxClocks – are cable-powered.

A mains power connection via the included power supply unit is required for operation. Therefore, proximity to a power outlet should be considered when choosing a location for your clock.

The constant power supply ensures continuous operation of the LED matrix as well as the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth interfaces.

Question 9: Why is sustainability important at WordClock?

We create products built to last. Our goal is to maximize the lifecycle of our timepieces through three key pillars:

Wordclock Jupiter Verpckung

Modular Design

Thanks to the modular system, you don't need to buy a new clock when changing your decor – simply swapping the front panel is enough. This significantly reduces resource consumption.

Long-Lasting Quality & Warranty

We use only high-quality electronic components that were developed and thoroughly tested in Germany. We provide a 2-year warranty on our Jupiter 1; for our Jupiter 2.0, we emphasize our confidence in the advanced tech with a 4-year warranty.

Service & Replaceability

If a component shows wear after many years, our system is designed so that individual parts can be easily replaced or repaired. Our customer support is always here to assist you to ensure long-term operation of your WordClock.

Stuttgart Manufactory

For us, "WordClock" is more than just a brand – it is our promise of quality. The development and design of all our word clocks take place right here in Stuttgart.

Development & Production

Not only the design concept takes place in Stuttgart, but also the ongoing quality assurance of every single component before it leaves our facility.

On-Site Service

Because we know our products inside and out, we also handle repairs and part replacements directly in our Stuttgart workshop.

Illustration des Stuttgarter Fernsehturms

Customer Support

If you have questions or need assistance, speak directly with our German- and English-speaking customer support team. Our technical support is reachable by phone or email and can help you quickly and effortlessly.