October 5, 2010

Problem of the Week

for Tuesday, October 5, 2010

Paul has an idea that he thinks will save the digital clock companies money. Instead of representing the minutes from 0 to 59 using two digits, he claims he can create 60 different symbols using different combinations of lights in the display:

(NOTE: There is no middle light, where one might be lit for 8. Save more money!) For example, a Paul Clock would represent 0 with no lights. A Paul Clock could represent 1 with one light:

Can Paul really create 60 different symbols with the six lights? If not 60 exactly, how many?

Winner of the digital display challenge