Abstract: A digital clock device includes data storage units and produces switching signals in response to the data stored in accordance with predetermined functions, such as time of day and lapse of time. Switching signals responsive to quantities not related to time can also be produced. Data being stored is displayed as it is being entered into the device. In a disclosed embodiment, the device is used for the control of an electric range. Start of cooking time and duration of cooking for the oven and the individual heating plates can be controlled. Programmed control of oven temperature is also possible.

Abstract: An input mechanism includes a plurality of input factor storage units for storing and coding pulses representative of input data. The stored data is transmitted to a data processor and to a decoder for subsequent display. Preferably, the number of storage units equals the number of display terminals on the display device. A selection device directs the pulses produced by a manually controllable pulse generator to one of the plurality of storage units.