Abstract: A highly accurate timer for timing out intervals in the order of seconds or minutes in length is disclosed. The timer comprises actuator means and digital means responsive to the actuator means for providing control signals. Coupling means provides the timer with an a.c. signal having a first characteristic periodic frequency. A clock is responsive to the coupling means to produce a series of pulses having a second characteristic frequency related to the first characteristic frequency. A counter is adapted for receiving a selectable value and is responsive to the control signals from the digital means to count pulses from the clock and produce an output when a selected value entered into the counter has been counted out. Programming means is utilized to enter a desired digital value into the counter. A switch switches a.c. power to and from external units as a function of the condition of the counter.