> I've just got my IN-14 tubes and started experimenting on my first > nixie project - the clock, of course! For now I am using a disposable > camera as my power supply. Shorted out with an amp meter, it gives a > steady 12.8mA at 330V, which is better than expected.
More accurately, it pushes 12.8mA through a short at zero volts. I'm guessing the 330V is no load. So in-between, you're getting less than 330 volts at less than 12.8mA. > So my question is; should I continue bothering with this power supply > (should it even be used for 6 tubes) and try to fix my schematics, or > just make my own power supply which I am not so fond of. I'm guessing the camera supply just isn't up to the job, sad to say, but likely. So there are a few ways you could proceed. If there are more where that came from, you could use six camera supplies, one for each tube. That might work, and would be amusing. Otherwise, you'd have to come up with the voltage some other way. The easiest way is probably to buy a ready-made supply like the Tayloredge ones. They're small, reliable, and very cost effective at $13 apiece, and you don't have to make your own. Alternatively, if you're using an AC supply, you can use a transformer in reverse to step-up the voltage, and rectify that. Three parts (transformer, diode, and capacitor) and you're there (you can steal the capacitor and probably the diode from the camera supply). > Can driving nixies at such low voltage and current damage my nixies? Yes, running them underdriven like that can lead to cathode poisoning. It can be reversed, but it's disappointing when it happens. - John KG4L -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "neonixie-l" group. To post to this group, send an email to [email protected]. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to [email protected]. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/neonixie-l?hl=en-GB.
