Nixie Tube Clock Driver Kit with Arduino Nano
Build a Vintage IN-12 Nixie Tube Clock with This Arduino Nano Driver Kit
Every part needed, pre-tested for compatibility, with an AI build companion trained on this exact project. Shipped from Bengaluru in 3-5 days.
Capture the warm, mesmerizing glow of genuine Soviet-era IN-12 Nixie tubes as you solder and assemble your own desk clock. This kit gives you everything to create a retro numeric display driven by an Arduino Nano and a precision DS3231 real-time clock — no sourcing of rare parts, no compatibility guesswork.
What You'll Build
A fully functional four-digit clock with glowing Nixie tubes that display hours and minutes in a way no modern screen can mimic. The IN-12 tubes emit a distinctive orange light, and once assembled, you'll own a unique conversation piece that blends vintage aesthetics with reliable digital timekeeping.
What You'll Learn
- Soldering through-hole components on prototype boards to build a robust clock circuit
- Interfacing a DS3231 RTC module with Arduino for drift-free, battery-backed timekeeping
- Driving high-voltage Nixie tubes safely using K155ID1 decoder ICs
- Assembling and testing a 170V DC power supply for Nixie tube operation while respecting high-voltage safety practices
Kit Contents
| Component | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Arduino Nano | x1 |
| DS3231 RTC | x1 |
| K155ID1 Decoder | x4 |
| IN-12 Nixie Tube | x4 |
| HV PSU 170V | x1 |
| 15kΩ Resistors | x10 |
| 100nF Caps | x10 |
| PCB Prototype Board | x4 |
| Soldering Iron | x1 |
| Solder Wire | x1 |
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
Perfect for CBSE Class 11–12 students building a standout electronics project, B.Tech ECE/EEE students who want hands-on experience with high-voltage circuits, and hobbyists preparing for competitions like Smart India Hackathon. It also suits ATL Tinkering Lab instructors looking for a ready-to-build retro clock module that teaches soldering, microcontrollers, and vintage display technology.
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 on the box to access the AI companion; it knows this kit inside out. You can also message us on WhatsApp for a direct reply within hours — we'll help you debug step by step.
Do I need any prior soldering experience?
Some basic soldering is helpful, but the AI companion guides every joint with close-up references. The included soldering iron and solder are perfect for first-timers, and the board layouts are designed to minimise confusion around high-voltage tracks.
Are the IN-12 tubes new or used?
The IN-12 Nixie tubes are New Old Stock (NOS) from Soviet-era inventory, tested for uniform glow and expected lifespan before packaging. They have never been installed in a previous project.
Is the high-voltage power supply safe for classroom use?
The 170V DC supply is low-current and built around a pre‑tested module, but it does present a shock hazard if touched. We include clear safety notes, and for students under 16 we recommend adult supervision during the power‑up stage.
IN-12 Nixie tubes driven by K155ID1 decoder and HV PSU. DS3231 keeps accurate time. Retro numeric display.
What's in this kit
- Arduino Nano
- DS3231 RTC
- K155ID1 Decoder x4
- IN-12 Nixie Tube x4
- HV PSU 170V
- 15kΩ Resistors x10
- 100nF Caps x10
- PCB Prototype Board x4
- 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