Update: See the next post below for a much easier way to create a signature countdown clock!


We have had a number of people ask about countdown clock for their signatures. We've spent a large amount of time determining the best options for permitting this. We've been able to develop a solution that we feel is the best approach, while ensuring the stability and security of MousePad.

To use the clock, you will need to use a special BB code. These are the codes that we use for formatting (bold, italics, links, etc.).

The following rules apply to the clocks:

The clock may only be used in the signature area. It may not be used in the main body of a post.
The clock counts as two lines of a signature file. The five line limit remains.
Each user is restricted to one clock only.
All normal policies apply. We reserve the right to edit content or remove the clock functionality at our discretion and without warning.
Clocks that have expired must be removed in a timely manner. (Obviously, you can leave them while on your trip, but remove them when you return).
In order to use the clock, you will need to follow this format exactly (make sure there are no line breaks in this code):

Countdown to the 14 night cruise from Orlando to Anaheim


There are three options for the clock, separated by a semicolon. Note that the options must be enclosed in quotes.

The first option is the date and time that you are counting toward. It must follow this format, to include the comma. Make sure you put in the Time Zone you are counting toward: EST, EDT, CST, CDT, MST, MDT, PST, PDT.
The second option sets the text that will display instead of the clock, once the clock has finished its countdown. Do NOT use any punctuation marks in the second option.
The third option is the color of the text above the clock. This is a plain text option - just type in the basic color you want, e.g, Green, Red, Blue, etc)
After that, you can define the text that appears above the clock.

I've added a new COUNTDOWN button in the signature editor toolbar, which makes setting up your signature countdowns easier.

Note that although the button is also visible in the post editor toolbar, the countdown is only to be used in signatures and not in posts. You are allowed one and only one countdown clock in your signature.

Here's how to use the new button:

Click the COUNTDOWN button in the signature editor toolbar; it looks like a green clock with the time at "7:17". http://www.mouseplanet.com/graphics/countdownbutton.gif
In the pop-up dialog, enter your countdown in this format:

Countdown complete date;Countdown complete message;COLOR

The countdown complete date should be in the form "month day, year" and look like "January 19, 2038". The three sections must be separated by semicolons.
When you've entered your countdown in the pop-up dialog, click OK and then type your countdown in-progress message (e.g. "Countdown to Disneyland").


When complete, the countdown code will look like this:

Countdown to Disneyland!

And the actual countdown in your signature will look like this while it's running:

Countdown to Disneyland!

And like this once it's expired:

Countdown to Disneyland!

Lastly, you can test your countdown with the PREVIEW button in the signature editor. Please do not post just to test your countdown!