This project features a custom 3D-printed 'Mortal Kombat' trophy shell paired with a basic NE555 timer circuit in 'astable mode', producing a smooth 'breathing' LED effect—mimicking the gentle pulse of a living light.

Watch this video for detailed step by step instructions on how to build this circuit and to know how this circuit works. You will discover how to blend retro gaming charm with modern electronics to create a stunning, attention-grabbing masterpiece.

Video: https://youtu.be/Q4CRfxDFBEk

3D Printing

I designed this project's 3D model using Blender. You can either create your own model or download my STL files from platforms like Thingiverse, Printables or Cults3D and then print it using PLA or any other filament of your choice.

3D Printing is a highly addictive hobby! There are so many things you can do using a 3D printer. From designing 3D Models to printing them using the 3D printer has now become my new hobby. I've been a "maker" since I was 10 years old, and have always constructed and made my own stuff. 3D printing for me is a blessing. I am totally lost in the 3D printing heaven.

3D printing has changed my electronics workshop life forever. Before when I used to order parts, I always used to wonder if the parts would fit into my project's resources... but after I got my 3D printer... it doesn't matter at all, because if it doesn't fit - I can design and print it myself. The 3D printer was definitely "The Missing Piece" from my electronics workshop.

To achieve gentle, diffused lighting for this project, I repurposed the semi-transparent plastic from a milk bottle to evenly scatter light and to eliminate glare.

Using Acrylic Colors, I painted the body of the trophy.
The trophy's antique character came to life through strategic dry brushing with earthy browns and muted blues. Once dry, I will superglue the plastic cutout to the back of the front bit.

Components Required

For this tutorial you need:

Circuit Diagram

The heart of this circuit is the 555 timer IC.
Pin No.1 of the IC is connected to GND.
By connecting Pin 2 and 6 of the 555 timer IC, we put the IC in astable mode. In astable mode, the 555 timer IC acts as an oscillator (re-triggering itself) generating square waves [PWM Signals] from the output Pin no. 3.
3 other components connect to this junction. 
1st one is the 33µF capacitor. The positive pin of the capacitor connects to the junction and the negative pin is connected to the GND.
2nd one is the 47KΩ resistor. One of its legs connects to the junction and the other leg connects to the Output pin, Pin No.3 of the IC.
3rd one is the Base of the BC548 NPN transistor. The collector of the transistor along with Pin 8 and 4 of the IC connects to the +ve terminal. of the battery. The LED along with its current limiting resistor is connected to the Emitter of the transistor.
That's it as simple as that. 

Alright, now I am going to demonstrate how this circuit works with the help of an animation.

How The Circuit Works

  • When Pin 2 of the IC detects voltage LESS than 1/3rd of the supply voltage, it turns ON the output on Pin 3.
  • And, when Pin 6 detects voltage MORE than 2/3rds of the supply voltage, it turns OFF the output.


This is how the trigger pin (Pin2) and the
threshold pin (Pin6) of the 555 timer IC sense voltages and controls the output at Pin 3.

  • The Capacitor attached to the circuit will be in a discharged state immediately after firing up the circuit. 
  • So, the voltage at Pin 2 will be 0v which is less than 1/3rds of the supply voltage,...
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