Thanks, Ingvar. That is just the kind of help I need.

I gave some effort to using AA cells, and decided that it was not practical. This device will be passed on to others who may not have a screwdriver, and would be hard pressed to replace the batteries. On the other hand, I can buy an enclosure with a separate hatch for a 9v battery that will be easy for anyone to change.

I am using the internal oscillator in the chip, as the time is plenty close enough.

You are right about the 78L05 using much of the power. As best I can figure, it uses about 3 ma of the 4.5 ma current. There is also a flashing led (so the user knows something is happening) and a buzzer, but they are on for such a short time their current does not matter much. But I don't know about a better voltage regulator. What do you suggest.

Thanks for your help.

AMay