[neonixie-l] Re: Why driver ICs?

[allen lutins]

Thanks for the replies folks! I do know about the importance of current 
limiting (based on the research I did before building my tester), but I 
forgot to mention that I *did* indeed include a series resistor...however, 
I calculated the resistance based on a current limit of 20-30 mA, rather 
than the lower limit someone suggested; I'll have to review the specs for 
my ZM1000's and verify the basis of my decision.

I hope to develop some more complicated (for me, anyway) devices soon, and 
sure appreciate having the support and wisdom of this group :)

-allen
KC2KLC

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[neonixie-l] Why driver ICs?

[allen lutins]

Another nixie newbie here hoping y'all will show compassion for my 
ignorance.

I have been an amateur electronics hobbyist since childhood, mostly analog 
(primarily audio  RF-related). I've started playing with some ZM1000s, and 
built a simple tester to plug them in  cycle manually through all the 
digits (image at www.lutins.org/projects/nixie1.gif). This is a simple 
device, with the positive side of a 170V power supply connected to the 
anode and the negative side switched between digit cathodes. I am not using 
a driver IC, and here is my primary question: What is the main purpose of a 
driver IC?

If i understand the specifications properly, 170V is an ignition voltage, 
after which a 125V maintaining voltage can be used. Does a driver IC have 
anything to do with this, or is this another issue entirely? And will i 
shorten the life of my nixie by supplying it continuously with 170V?

Thanks in advance for helping me merge onto the nixie highway!

-allen

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