mirror of
https://github.com/dekuNukem/exixe.git
synced 2025-10-31 11:17:03 -07:00
87 lines
3.7 KiB
Markdown
87 lines
3.7 KiB
Markdown
# exixe: Low-cost miniature Nixie tube driver modules
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
exixe is a low-cost miniature driver module for IN-12 and IN-14 Nixie tubes.
|
|
|
|
Instead of using obscure out-of-production driver chips, it uses a STM32 to handle display and dimming of all digits with hardware PWM. The module is controlled via standard SPI protocol, and has onboard RGB LED backlight.
|
|
|
|
exixe is cheap, small and modular for easy integration. It is compatible with Arduino, Raspberry Pi, ESP8266, and virtually all embedded dev boards today.
|
|
|
|
Since each tube has its own driver, there is no need for multiplexing. Thus reducing the power consumption, simplifying the circuit design, increases perceived brightness, and prolongs the tube life.
|
|
|
|
## Video
|
|
|
|
Here's a short video of exixe14 modules in action on the [high precision clock](https://github.com/dekuNukem/exixe_clock) shown in the above picture:
|
|
|
|
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3d2alzgjKc
|
|
|
|
## Features
|
|
|
|
Compared to the traditional approach, exixe modules offers significant advantages:
|
|
|
|
#### Small and modular
|
|
* 2x4 cm (0.79x1.57 inches)
|
|
* Breadboard friendly
|
|
* Easy integration
|
|
|
|
#### Low-cost
|
|
* $3 in components
|
|
* No need for expensive obscure vintage driver chips
|
|
|
|
#### SPI interface
|
|
* High speed, up to 24MHz SCLK
|
|
* Available on virtually all embedded systems including Arduino and Raspberry Pi
|
|
* Simple 16-byte command packet
|
|
|
|
#### Advanced control
|
|
* Powered by ARM Cortex-M0 microcontroller
|
|
* Hardware PWM on all cathodes and LEDs for smooth dimming and animations
|
|
|
|
#### Tube overdrive
|
|
* Optionally allows twice the cathode current
|
|
* For poisoned cathodes in second-hand tubes
|
|
|
|
#### RGB backlight
|
|
* Because RGB
|
|
|
|
#### No multiplexing
|
|
* Brighter display
|
|
* Longer tube life
|
|
* Simpler design
|
|
* Less power consumption
|
|
|
|
## Pinout, SPI command format and technical details
|
|
|
|
Please see [technical_details.md](/technical_details.md)
|
|
|
|
## Getting started
|
|
|
|
Please see [getting_started.md](/getting_started.md)
|
|
|
|
## Buying some
|
|
|
|
I can custom make some exixe modules for you in small quantities. However, soldering them together and testing them takes a long time, so it's going to be more expensive than just the cost of materials.
|
|
|
|
As for a larger scale, I don't have plans of putting it in production right now, however I might consider a small run if there is enough interest.
|
|
|
|
Also, I do have some extra empty PCBs in panels of 8, so if you want I can sell one to you. You still need to source the rest of the components and solder it together though.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Email me at `dekunukem gmail com` for inquires.
|
|
|
|
## Making Some
|
|
|
|
Full BOM here: [exixe12](resources/exixe12_bom.xlsx), [exixe14](resources/exixe14_bom.xlsx)
|
|
|
|
* The NPN transistor used on every cathode is [BF820](https://www.mouser.co.uk/Search/ProductDetail.aspx?R=BF820W%2c135virtualkey66800000virtualkey771-BF820W135)
|
|
* The single PNP transistor used in overdrive circuit is [MSB92](https://www.mouser.co.uk/Search/ProductDetail.aspx?R=MSB92ASWT1Gvirtualkey58410000virtualkey863-MSB92ASWT1G)
|
|
* Microcontroller is [STM32F042K6T6](https://www.mouser.co.uk/Search/ProductDetail.aspx?R=STM32F042K6T6virtualkey51120000virtualkey511-STM32F042K6T6)
|
|
* LED is [Wurth Electronics 150141M173100](https://www.mouser.co.uk/Search/ProductDetail.aspx?R=150141M173100virtualkey51100000virtualkey710-150141M173100)
|
|
|
|
Making some exixe modules yourself is fairly straightforward, just order the PCBs and parts and solder them together. Since the component count is not small and they are densely populated, I suggest order the PCB in panels of 6 or 8 and get a matching stencil to apply the paste. Use of reflow oven or skillet reflow is also recommended, since soldering each and every component by hand is basically torture. |