On May 5, 2026, EEVblog marked the 555 timer’s 55 years with a celebratory video. The channel’s 994 k‑subscriber community watched the 11 094‑view tribute, which premiered at 5:55 pm on International 555 Timer Day. Dave Dorman used a classic Killer One‑Shot circuit to blow out a birthday candle in a playful homage to the chip’s enduring role in design.

The 555, invented in 1968 by Hans Camenzind, remains a staple in analog and digital circuits. Its astable and monostable modes power everything from simple timers to complex signal generators. The video highlighted the chip’s versatility, noting that modern hobbyists still rely on the 555 timer for prototyping and educational projects across diverse applications worldwide today.

Dave fed a 555 with a 5‑V supply, a 10 kΩ resistor, and a 100 nF capacitor, producing a single 5‑second pulse. He used this burst to ignite and then extinguish a birthday candle, showcasing the timer’s precision. The demo highlighted the component’s enduring use in low‑cost, reliable hobbyist projects and educational settings worldwide for students and.

The video also promoted EEVblog’s merchandise, offering 555‑themed apparel at a 5 % discount for viewers. Subscribers were reminded to support the channel via Patreon and the online store. By celebrating the 555’s legacy, Dave reinforced its relevance for designers still building circuits that demand simplicity and reliability in modern embedded systems and educational projects worldwide.