4 Digit Nixie Tube Clock Controller Chip. 28-pin DIP IC. Pre-programmed high-tech microcontroller has many of the features most requested in a nixie clock. Features include:

-12/24 Hour mode.
-Digit cycling (slots) options.
-Cathode poisoning prevention routines.
-Power failure backup, using optional memory backup capacitor.
-PWM brightness control.
-Timed dimming of tubes.
-Software adjustable crystal.
-BCD output can be used on 74141 nixie drivers.

Assembly is easy, just follow the included schematic. A separate sheet listing all user adjustable options is also provided.

An optional backup capacitor (C2) can be installed to provide backup in case of a power failure. A 1 farad capacitor will provide approximately 16 hours of backup time, a 0.33 farad approximately 5 hours.

BCD output can also be used to drive other displays, such as LEDs (a binary clock!) or 7 segment displays via BCD 7 segment decoders.

Please note, this controller is NOT to be used as a replacement in our 4 digit clock kit the IN174D and Z57xM4D, as those kits require a controller with a different pinout. Please contact us if you need a replacement controller for the IN174D/Z57xM4D clock kits.

User manual (including all user adjustable options and schematic) available here (PDF)

A few Nixie Clocks using our controllers, built by David C. from Scotland.


Nixie Clock using our controller built by Sascha Grant.