Pete’s Blog

If you’ve poked around the internets where electronics hobbyists collect, it is likely that you are acutely aware of our incontrovertible affinity for building timekeeping clocks.  It is similarly unlikely that you have been able to evade the plenitude of nixie tube based projects.  There is a reason for this.

Nixie tubes are cool.  They have great aesthetic appeal with their difficult-to-photograph, warm orange glow, and dem curvy numerals.  They add an organic je ne sais quoi to a hobby with ostensibly digital design cues.  Further, they pose technical challenges in the way of producing and switching the ~175 V DC needed to light each tube element.  And as far as I am aware, there are no new nixie tubes being produced; as such, procurement can be a challenge unto itself.  My N.O.S. nixies came from Russia thru Ebay, and only 3 were duds.  Incidentally the seller replaced those 3, FOC.

The strike thru text above results from a tip from +nicholasStock  who points out new nixie tubes ae in fact being produced: http://www.daliborfarny.com/  The linked tubes are really impressive from a technical standpoint as well as asthetics.  They seem to amplify all of the design cues we love about NOS nixies and the results speak for themselves.  Might still be an issue with procurement, however…

Fortunately, not all nixie tube clocks are implemented the same.  In fact, look around at all the schematics for nixie clocks, and you will realize there are more permutations in methodology than there are models of nixie tubes.  This is how it should be.  We ( DIY electronics people ) like to put our own spin on things.
My version of the Nixie Clock has a few of its own nifty features.  The list includes:
  • Single microcontroller design.
  • Software based RTC.
  • Software driven boost converter for ~175 V DC supply.
  • Time, Date, and behavior configuration via USB
  • Windows application for clock configuration.
  • Time, Date, Temperature, and AC Power line frequency display.

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About The Author

Ibrar Ayyub

I am an experienced technical writer holding a Master's degree in computer science from BZU Multan, Pakistan University. With a background spanning various industries, particularly in home automation and engineering, I have honed my skills in crafting clear and concise content. Proficient in leveraging infographics and diagrams, I strive to simplify complex concepts for readers. My strength lies in thorough research and presenting information in a structured and logical format.

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