Modern reinterpretation of classic Nixie tube clocks using laser-cut acrylic, custom PCBs, and LED lighting. Authentic Nixie tubes cost $15-30 each (6 needed = $90-180 just for tubes)—this design achieves a similar aesthetic for under $25 total.

Inspiration: Instructables project demonstrating an LED-lit acrylic as a Nixie tube alternative.

Goal: Create a giftable, customizable clock at an accessible price point while learning PCB assembly and multi-process manufacturing.

The Nixie Aesthetic:

Traditional Nixie tubes use gas-discharge technology to illuminate stacked numerals—iconic retro look but increasingly expensive and fragile.

LED Alternative:

• Laser-engraved acrylic panels (one per digit 0-9)

• Edge-lit LED illumination

• Microcontroller switching between digits

• Maintains visual layered-number effect

Advantages:

• 90% cost reduction

• No high voltage required (safer)

• Customizable colors (RGB LEDs)

• Longer LED lifespan (vs limited Nixie life)

• Modern electronics (Arduino-based)

Phase 1: Acrylic Digit Panels

Design Challenge: Fit maximum panels on 12" x 24" acrylic sheet while preventing heat warping.

Workflow:

• Design digit layouts in Inkscape

• Optimize nesting for minimal waste

• Export to Rhino for laser cutter compatibility

• Convert to ULS software format

• Cut: ~25 minutes per sheet

Result: Complete set of engraved number panels with clean edges and precise dimensions for tight stacking.

Phase 2: Custom PCBs

Approach: Used existing open-source design from Instructables project.

Economics:

• Ordered 50 PCBs from manufacturer: $10 total

• Cost per board: $0.20

• Bulk order enables future design iterations 

Assembly (In Progress):

• Solder LEDs to PCBs (per digit module)

• Wire to Arduino controller

• Program display logic and time-keeping

• Test switching and brightness

Phase 3: 3D-Printed Base

Design Requirements:

• Display 6 tubes (HH:MM:SS format)

• Conceal electronics

• Provide structural support for acrylic panels

• Fit Ender 3 print bed (220mm x 220mm)

Solution:

• Custom CAD design split into two interlocking pieces.

Electronics:

• Arduino microcontroller (timekeeping and display)

• RGB LEDs (customizable colors)

• Multiplexing circuit (illuminate correct digit)

• Power supply (5V USB or wall adapter)

Mechanical:

• Laser-cut acrylic digit panels (0.125" thickness)

• 3D-printed base (PLA)

• Precise spacing for layered effect

• Alignment system for tube assemblies

Software:

• Arduino code for RTC (Real-Time Clock)

• LED control and switching logic

• Brightness adjustment

• Color customization options

Version 2.0 Ideas:

• WiFi connectivity (NTP time sync, no manual setting)

• Ambient light sensor (auto brightness)

• Custom color modes (time-of-day themes)

• Alarm functionality

• Temperature/humidity display

• Smaller form factor (4-digit HH:MM only)