I am really intrigued with technology, of all kinds. The Nixie tube clock really reflects a somewhat magical age of technology for me. It was a time when you could see the actual "moving" parts. Unlike today, where everything is unimaginably small, you can see individual digits stacked and glowing. It is simply art.
I designed and built this clock quite a few years back, although until now I never built a box around it. I struggled to find an outside that would complement the inside. A short time ago I decided to build a case of stained glass, copper, and brass. A quick trip to Western Art Glass gave me my answer, I can do this! Allison Klinger, the owner listened to what I was wanting, helped me pick out the glass, and even cut the panels for me! (YOU ROCK Allison) Hey, if I can solder the main board I can sure as heck build a box out of stained glass. So here it is, pictures below.
Below are links to the schematics, circuit boards, assembly code, and even an assembly manual! The NH14 tubes are still possible to find on ebay, as well as the driver chips. The clock can be connected to a WWVB time signal, it will set itself and even figure out day light savings time.
| Completed clock in display case. | |
| Completed clock on circuit boards. | |
| Completed clock on circuit boards. | |
| Display board | |
| Processor, RTC, and power supplies | |
| Prototype of my nixie clock using an Atmel 89C51RC. The nixies are NH-14's driven by 74141 Russian type TTL drivers. PPS and backup time come from a Dallas DS1307. | |
| This is an earlier prototype using seven segment displays. Also in the picture is the SMPS for the 180v Nixie Anode supply. And the "hacked" out wwvb receiver. | |
| The first wwvb receiver came from an Atomic clock I bought at Super Target. | |
| Here is the WWVB reviever built using "Manhattan style" construction. | |
Western Art Glass Phone: 801-487-2773 2345 S. West Temple Salt Lake City, UT 84115
| Copyright © 2004-2011, Len Bayles | January 13, 2011 |