On 9/19/12 6:39 PM, dr pepper wrote:
So why is multiplexing a bad idea, and static displays make tubes last longer?, does multiplexing accelerate cathode poisoning or something? I have 3 or 4 prototypes I've put together and they all use multiplxing, even the single tube ones use pwm as a brightness control (and so probably inherit the 'bad habits' too).
Multiplexing itself isn't bad for the tubes, but it requires higher drive current to achieve the same brightness level, since each tube is illuminated for a small percentage of the time. Therefore, a multiplexed display of a particular brightness will not last as long as a direct-drive display of the same brightness.
On the other hand, Nixie tubes were designed for scientific equipment in office or lab environments. Direct drive at the recommended current level can be excessively bright for typical home lighting environments.
The choice is best made based on the desired brightness level of the display.
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