Nixie Tube Clock Kit with Arduino Nano
IN-14 Nixie Tube Clock with Arduino Nano — Vintage Digits, Smooth Crossfade Transitions
Every part needed, pre-tested for compatibility, with an AI build companion trained on this exact project. Shipped from Bengaluru in 3-5 days.
This is not a clock that merely tells time — it transforms a desk into a warm, glowing conversation piece. You solder together a four-digit IN-14 Nixie tube display driven by an Arduino Nano and a DS3231 real-time clock, then watch as each digit fades gracefully into the next. A dedicated K155ID1 BCD driver per tube and a stable 180V high-voltage module handle the power, so you can focus on perfecting the crossfade sequence.
What You'll Build
You will assemble a complete, enclosed Nixie tube clock that displays hours and minutes in the unmistakable orange glow of vintage IN-14 tubes. The digits transition with a programmable crossfade — not a harsh blink — making the final piece feel alive. It keeps precise time for years thanks to the temperature-compensated DS3231 RTC, even through power cuts, and the custom-cut enclosure gives it a clean, gallery-ready finish.
What You'll Learn
- Working safely with 180V DC boost converters and high-voltage isolation
- Interfacing Arduino Nano with BCD-to-decimal drivers (K155ID1) for Nixie multiplexing
- Implementing non-blocking crossfade logic in Arduino C++ for smooth digit transitions
- Reading and calibrating a DS3231 RTC over I2C and designing a persistent timebase
Kit Contents
| Component | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Arduino Nano | 1 |
| DS3231 RTC | 1 |
| HV PSU Module 180V | 1 |
| K155ID1 BCD Driver | 4 |
| IN-14 Nixie Tube | 4 |
| 15kΩ Resistors | 20 |
| 100nF Caps | 15 |
| PCB Prototype Board | 3 |
| Enclosure Box | 1 |
| 12V 1A PSU | 1 |
| Soldering Iron | 1 |
| Solder Wire | 1 |
Why Buy This Kit Instead of Sourcing Parts Separately
| Factor | Sourcing Separately | Compoden Kit |
|---|---|---|
| Compatibility checks | You verify every part | Pre-tested as a system |
| Build support | Forums and scattered tutorials | AI companion trained on this exact project |
| Time to first working build | Days of debugging | Hours, with step-by-step guidance |
| Shipping coordination | Multiple sellers, multiple delays | One shipment from Bengaluru in 3-5 days |
Who This Kit Is For
Advanced makers, B.Tech ECE and EEE students working on embedded system portfolios, and serious DIY enthusiasts who want a permanent conversation piece on their desk. If you have built a few Arduino projects and are ready for high-voltage assembly, this kit delivers a tangible result that stands apart from LCD or LED clocks. Ideal for final-year project demonstrations, Smart India Hackathon hardware prototypes, or simply mastering Nixie tube driver circuits at IIT/NIT/VIT labs.
Built and Backed by Compoden
Every Compoden kit ships with an AI build companion trained on this exact project — accessible via a QR code on the box, with WhatsApp and email backup. We've spent 10 years building projects for makers, schools, and institutions across India. If a part fails because of a manufacturing defect, replace it free within 7 days.
What if I get stuck during the build?
Scan the QR code inside the box to start a session with the AI companion that understands every resistor placement and crossfade timer value. It responds on WhatsApp within minutes if you need a human touch.
How do I stay safe while handling the 180V supply?
The kit includes an insulated enclosure and clear wiring diagrams. You'll build the high-voltage section last, after the logic circuits are verified, and the AI companion will walk you through every safety step.
Can I adjust the crossfade duration or style?
Absolutely. The Arduino sketch is fully open, with commented parameters for fade speed, digit dwell time, and even a slot for a custom animation loop. Modify and re-upload with the Nano’s USB.
Do I need an oscilloscope to debug the multiplexing?
Not necessary. The DS3231 provides a stable 1Hz square wave you can tap with a simple LED probe, and the AI companion helps you isolate timing issues using just the serial monitor.
IN-14 Nixie tubes driven by HV boost converter show time from DS3231 RTC with crossfade transitions.
What's in this kit
- Arduino Nano
- DS3231 RTC
- HV PSU Module 180V
- K155ID1 BCD Driver x4
- IN-14 Nixie Tube x4
- 15kΩ Resistors x20
- 100nF Caps x15
- PCB Prototype Board x3
- Enclosure Box
- 12V 1A PSU
- Soldering Iron
- Solder Wire
Choose your assembly option:
- Soldering Kit — 25W soldering iron, 60/40 solder wire, flux, and small perfboard for permanent assembly.
- Breadboard Combo — 800-point full-size breadboard with 65-piece jumper wire pack for solderless prototyping.
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Shipping Information
- Prepaid Orders: ₹75 for orders up to ₹999, FREE shipping above ₹999
- COD Orders: ₹125 shipping + ₹50 COD fee = ₹175 total
- Delivery Timeline: Dispatch in 1-2 days, delivery in 2-7 days depending on location
Returns & Warranty
- 7-Day Return: Manufacturing defects only (approval required)
- Warranty: 7 days from delivery
- Non-Returnable: Batteries, consumables, cut wires, clearance items