Here's a video of a dekatron spinner that's based around a 0A5 cold cathode gas trigger:
http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xmzo1p_0a5-relax-osc-dekatron-spinner_tech Other variable speed spinners need a transistor, or triode, to boost the pulse from the neon bulb relax oscillator. The 0A5 is used in place of the neon bulb, but this tube generates a pulse so large, that no amplification is needed. Actually, the pulse is too big. In this circuit, its 400V, and peaks at 5 amps (for ~2uS). The pulse is attenuated before kicking the guides of the dekatron. That pulse destroyed 2 4.7 ohm resistors. The tube works on the 'arcing' mode of gas discharge, and 5 amps is the minimum current for proper function. The 4.7 ohm resistor limits the current, and stretches the pulse. Peak power is over 100 watts, but only for a short 2uS. The original carbon film resistor has been be replaced by a wirewound resistor. -- 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.
