Editing Timer (section)

==Software==
These types of timers are not devices nor parts of devices, they exist only as software. They rely on the accuracy of a [[clock generator]] usually built into a hardware device that runs the software.

Many timer [[Mobile app|apps]] have been developed that mimic an old mechanical timer, but which have also highly sophisticated functions. These apps are also easier to use, because they are available at once, without any need to purchase or carry separate devices. Timers can be software applications phones, [[smartwatch]]es, or [[Tablet computer|tablets]]. Some of these apps are [[Countdown|countdown timers]], [[Stopwatch|stopwatches]], etc. These timer apps can be set for a specific time and can be used for tracking working or training time, motivating children to do tasks, replacing an [[hourglass]]-form [[egg timer]] in board games such as ''[[Boggle]]'', or for the traditional purpose of tracking time when cooking.

Apps may be superior to hour glasses, or to mechanical timers. Hour glasses are not precise and clear, and they can jam. Mechanical timers lack the customization that applications support, such as sound volume adjustments for individual needs. Most applications will also offer selectable alarm sounds.

Some timer applications can help children to understand the concept of time, help them to finish tasks in time, and help them to get motivated.<ref>{{cite web 
|url= http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/growing-friendships/201403/time-management-kids
|title=Time management with kids |author=<!--Staff writer(s); no by-line.--> |work=[[Psychology Today]]}}</ref> These applications are especially used with children with disabilities like [[ADHD]].<ref>{{cite news 
|url= https://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/despite-years-of-adhd-research-diagnosis-remains-tricky-and-treatment-more-so/2013/10/28/a668337a-3a6a-11e3-b6a9-da62c264f40e_story.html
|title=ADHD Research 
|author=<!--Staff writer(s); no by-line.--> 
|newspaper=[[The Washington Post]] 
}}</ref>