Electrical engineering student Tor Kaufmann Gjerde, based in Trondheim, Norway, has created a small Arduino-powered limited-edition Nixie tube clock, which is now available to purchase via Kickstarter. Early bird pledges are available from £132, with worldwide shipping expected to take place during May 2020. This innovative project combines the charm of vintage technology with modern electronics, making it a unique addition to any tech enthusiast’s collection.
The Fascination with Nixie Tubes
Nixie tubes are a type of electronic device used for displaying numerals or other information using glow discharge. They were widely used in the 1950s and 1960s before being replaced by LEDs and other display technologies. These tubes have a nostalgic appeal due to their warm, glowing digits and intricate design. Tor Kaufmann Gjerde’s project aims to revive this vintage technology by integrating it with modern Arduino circuitry, creating a functional and aesthetically pleasing clock.
“Studying electrical engineering, I came across these really fascinating small pieces of electronic history – enter the nixie-tubes. Back in the days before LEDs (light-emitting diodes) were invented, nixie tubes were used in scientific and military electronic equipment to display numbers and letters. The goal of this project is to combine modern circuitry, electronics, and manufacturing methods together with the old tube-tech in order to create a sleek-looking, highly customizable clock/display.”
Design and Quality
The NIXLER clock is not just about nostalgia; it is also about quality and reliability. Tor has gone through multiple prototypes to ensure that the final product meets high standards. The clock features a polished plasma-cut aluminum frame and white enclosures, which contribute to its minimalistic design. This design choice directs focus and attention towards the beautiful nixie tubes, making them the centerpiece of the clock.
“Going through multiple prototypes, I’ve had two key parameters in mind: Quality and reliability. The final version of the NIXLER will be built using tested quality components and assembled and inspected by me personally here in Trondheim, Norway. The polished plasma-cut aluminum frame together with the white enclosures makes for a minimalistic design directing focus and attention towards the beautiful nixie tubes.”
The NIXLER clock is a testament to the blend of old and new technologies. It serves as a reminder of the ingenuity of past electronic designs while showcasing the advancements in modern electronics. This project is perfect for those who appreciate the history of technology and want to own a piece of it.
In addition to its aesthetic appeal, the NIXLER clock is also highly customizable. Users can adjust the display settings and even program the clock to show different types of information. This makes it not only a beautiful piece of decor but also a functional and versatile gadget.
Source: Kickstarter
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