NixiSat driving Dalibor's R|568's

[MichaelB]

Still have to build the taller colon towers, but I was pleased to see that these work as possible replacements for the real thing. I used 8.2K Anode resistors vs. the 10K's Thomas used to recommend for the Z568's. And since they're taller they require a taller top, as an aside.

[gregebert]

Just to be safe, I suggest you measure the voltage drop across the anode resistor, and use Ohm's law to compute the current. For an 8.2K anode resistor, and a current of 6mA, the voltage-drop should be around 50V. If  the voltage is below 40 volts, your anode current is too low because it's less than the datasheet minimum-current spec of 5mA and you run the risk of cathode poisoning.

I use an actual current-regulator in my designs, rather than just a resistor, so that variations in tube characteristics and supply voltage dont affect the current.

[MichaelB]

I chose this value based on what I believe is the value Dalibor recommends for his tubes. And they perform well within spec. I have had a PV clock running these same tubes for over 2 years with this value anode resistor and have had no issues such as the phenomena mentioned.. Both clock power supplies generate 180VDC. Thanks for your feedback.

[Nick Andrews]

But they are beautiful! 

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[MichaelB]

i could not agree with you more!  

[gregebert]

What really amazed me about the R|Z568m tubes is that even though at 50mm tall,  they are  only 10mm taller than an IN-18, their size is enormous by comparison. They are "fatter" than an IN-18 so they have better overall proportions, whereas the IN-18 is more tall-and-skinny.

[Jeff Walton]

Dalibor also makes a version of the R|568 that uses the mesh cage all around instead of the solid back.  It is spectacular and the see-through appearance is unique.  

Dalibor's tubes are truly an art and we are all lucky to have a source for these gorgeous displays. 

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[Dalibor]

Hi!

8k2 value is proven and totally safe when used with 170-180V DC. Recently I updated the specification for our tubes and decreased the minimum current from 5mA to 4.5mA. The currents are different for every digit anyway - we need to specify this as well for the customers who build the clocks with a current source. There is not a big difference in lifespan/risk of cathode poisoning, it is more about balancing the brightness of the digits.

Regards,

[MichaelB]

Here they are in a black NixiSat with a finished base. Still have to make taller colon towers, but nevertheless, stunning, I think!

[Nicholas Stock]

Nice work Michael!! (As usual!) Good to know they fit the board, I stlll have to make mine up....

Cheers,

Nick

Sent from my iPhone

On Jul 26, 2021, at 06:54, MichaelB <Badn...@badnixie.com> wrote:



Here they are in a black NixiSat with a finished base. Still have to make taller colon towers, but nevertheless, stunning, I think!

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[Bill Notfaded]

Wow Michael!  That wood looks really good.  You always use really nice hardware as well.  I guess since you machine things so well skimping on cruddy hardware just isn't an option and why would it be!  My 8971 clock with the gold colored hardware option and that green PCB contrast with the black aluminum is amazing.

Bill