Unusual Nixie Tubes Lead To Unique Clock

A Nixie Tube or cold cathode display is a device, used for displaying information using glow discharge. This electronic device consists of a wire mesh and cathodes, shaped like symbols. You power it and the number is clearly visibly, thanks to the glow discharge. This tube is filled with neon, mercury and argon, at low pressure. You can get them online. And they look beautiful!

So here, Ian, got a set and decided to make a Nixie clock out of it.

He used laser cut LEDs for a glow effect, an ATmega 328 and a battery backed RTC. You can see the pictures and the steps for the assembly. Although, there were a few technical issues with the Nixie Tubes, but he overcame them. Take a look and you’ll know what we are talking about.

We think, Ian has done a pretty decent job. You can check it out in the link below and do send us pictures of your Nixie Tube products.

Have fun!