## Building a Nixie Clock is easier and cheaper then you might think The Nixie Tube Clock is an example of geek luxury. It's rare, it looks cool, and there are only a limited number of [tubes](https://danyk.cz/digitrony_en.html) left in the world, adding to the elitism. And it gives your lab that evil genius vibe. But with the right knowledge and skills it is easily obtainable. A set of 6 new tubes will cost you around $60, the closer you live to Eastern Europe - the cheaper. Just search for `nixie IN-12B` on Ebay. Used tubes are even cheaper, but bear in mind that they have a limited lifespan (5-10 years). And by "new" I mean made in the 1980s, because around that time mass production stopped. Then you will need a cheap [Control Board](https://gist.github.com/dmi3/26d3924f5b4600e5dc5197d1c3da7f43#nixie_clock) from Aliexpress and some [DB Terminal Connector 1.0mm Sockets](https://gist.github.com/dmi3/26d3924f5b4600e5dc5197d1c3da7f43#user-content-nixie_connector). The control board has all the necessary functions for timekeeping, as well as an anti-cathode poisoning routine to prolong the life of the tubes. Time separator LEDs and all necessary wires are included with the board. Board will also work with only 4 tubes connected if you don't care about seconds and want a smaller design. Additionally you need a 12V power supply, or [USB 5V-to-12V converter](https://gist.github.com/dmi3/26d3924f5b4600e5dc5197d1c3da7f43#user-content-nixie_) (in case of USB, make sure that source have at least 3A). !![Assembled](pic/nix_assembled.jpeg) You need to solder the board wires to DB sockets or to tubes directly. Start from anode `A` which is identifiable by arrow or by white isolation: !![Ultra professional wiring diagram](pic/nixie_wiring.png) To make tube set easily mountable, I've made a 3D [printable STL](https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:6622823). Then you need to find a nice looking wooden or metal case to mount it in. !![Nixie IN12 socket panel](pic/nix.png) Then you print a [decorative panel](https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:5147645) for the front and paint it with bronze spray paint. !![Decorative panel](pic/nix_panel.png) In the end you get a nice fusion of modern and vintage technology that looks great. ![On my shelf](pic/nixiemil.png) 🏷️DIY