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Hardware and software documentation for a Nixie tube clock created by two engineering students

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Project Nixie


This is a Nixie Clock created by two engineering students.

Overview

Nixie Tubes were used back in the day to display numbers and text, until the world was taken over by LEDs.

Featuring our contraption...

This project aims to bring back a relic of the past, but packed with modern tech. This clock comes with features like Wi-Fi, BLE, onboard sensors, ARGB lighting etc., all of which is controlled through a mobile app.

Nixie ClockNixie Clock


Design

Our Nixie clock is designed from the ground up with individual drivers for every digit (no multiplexing), Wi-Fi/BLE, built-in timekeeping, and ruggedized power supply. The custom firmware drivers allow for full dimming and/or crossfading control of the digits. Users can also customize the firmware to suit their needs.

The clock is housed in a 3D printed dark grey nylon enclosure, providing a high quality feel and look.

alt text

Features

  • Wi-Fi/BLE for NTP sync/smart home functionality
  • Dual core microcontroller (ESP32) for complex tasks
  • High accuracy RTC with TCXO to accurately keep track of time once sync'ed
  • High efficiency, rugged power components to ensure long service life
  • Individually addressible RGB tube illumination
  • Individually driven digits which make crossfading or other such effects light on I/O as compared to multiplexed
  • Replaceable tubes (trim leads to approx 8-10mm)

    Power Supply SectionDigital Section

Android App Control

Our Nixie Tube clock can be controlled through our Android app - NixieCon. NixieCon connects to the hardware via Bluetooth. Download the app here.

App Home App Time Mode App Countdown Mode App LED Control App LED Control

Links

Hardware Documentation
Nixie Tube HAL


License and Usage

This project and the resources contained therein may be used in accordance with the LICENSE.

Disclaimer (and read the license)

The reproduction and/or use of this project, and any resulting consequences thereof are completely at your own risk. The high-voltage supply contained in this design is capable of outputting up to 260 volts unadjusted, which can cause severe injury or death. There may be spurious emissions or other forms of EMI which may disrupt the usage of other appliances, from which a malfunction may cause severe injury or death. During normal operation, the power components radiate a non-trivial amount of heat, which may result in a fire hazard if poorly ventilated. IN-14 nixie tubes (used here) contain small amounts of mercury, which may be released if the tube is broken. Read the license.


Developers

Karthik Raj
Edward

Released under the AGPL-3.0 License