IV-11 VFD Nixie Tube Clock
What is it?
IV-11 Vacuum Fluorescent Display technology or VFD in short, was invented in 1950s and it has since evolved over time from Vacuum tube indicators to Digital Digit Display in 1962. VFD technology is still used in many applications today, but not in the appearance of a tube.
The VFD we see today are flat and because VFD display does not require back light, is able to constantly display in high brightness, digits can be displayed in several colors, content is highly customizable, VFD technology is still the preferred display medium today; VFD displays can be found in automotive, high-end instrumentation, Hi-Fi devices and intelligent terminal, such as our car audio display, Blu-ray player, desktop multi-meter, supermarket cash register, etc.
The tubes
VFD tubes contain phosphor coated anode that is bombarded by electrons emitted from the filament, and can come in different colors. IV-11 VFD tubes unlike Nixie tubes, do not produce heat during operation.
Our tubes are 100% authentic brand new IV-11 VFD tube made in USSR between 1980s-1990s and are out of production. The glass body is cylindrical with 22.5mm diameter, side display, 11 fly pins (8 anodes corresponding to 7 segments and 1 decimal point, 1 grid pin, and 2 filament pins).
Below are the images of IV-11 tube and the translation of the original information content,
The Base
The base housing is made with real hard wood frame for stability and character; and laser-cut black opaque acrylic for the top and bottom cover to effectively bring out the glow from the tubes and LED. The base houses the gold plated PCB, and RGB LED Back Light.
Operation
The IV-11 VFD Tube Clock functions are manually adjusted using the provided infra-red remote control. If you prefer automatic tracking of local time, the GPS receiver can be plugged in with the additional ports provided in the wooden frame. Optional thermometer can be connected to the additional port in the wooden frame should you wish to include temperature reading function and display.
A semiconductor ambient light sensor (not photosensitive resistor) is added in to automatically control the digit and back-light brightness according to the ambient brightness.
Features
1. Time display | Display hour, minutes and seconds (12 or 24 format, lead zero On/Off supported). |
2. Date display | Display year, month and day (YY-MM-DD/YY-DD-MM/DD-MM-YY/MM-DD-YY date format). |
3. Lunar date display | Calculate and display Chinese lunar date in relation to solar calendar. |
4. Day of week display | Display day of week. |
5. Alarm | Two alarm clocks, can be activate separately. |
6. GPS Configuration | Automatically adjust the date and time (GPS receiver is optional). |
7. GMT time zone functions | The clock will calculate the local time based on satellite. |
8. Temperature display | ℃ or ℉ operational (Temperature sensor not provided). |
9. Switch On/Off automatically | Auto On/Off time can be set to increase tube lifespan. |
10. Automatic Brightness | Automatically adjusts brightness level of VFD tubes and LEDs based on ambient lighting. |
11. Transition effects | 10 transition effects for the digits, and 10 transition speeds available |
12. Background lighting | 8 colours selection, Back light settings include Fade in-out, On and Off. |
13. IR remote control | IR remote controller operation. |
14. High accurate | Built-in high precision RTC module, accurate to within 60s per year. |
15. Power off memory | Built-in backup lithium battery will maintain clock accuracy, all settings are saved without power. |
Technical Specifications
VFD tube | IV-11(ИВ-11 1980s-1990s Made in USSR) |
Voltage of DC input | DC 5V (3.5mm/1.35mm) |
Operation current | Max 900mA |
GPS requirement | TTL port, 2400-9600bps, 3.5mm headset plug |
Temperature sensor requirement | 18B20, 3.5mm headset plug |
Dimension | Base 240mm(L) x 70mm(W) x 25mm(H) Height of VFD tube 50mm, diameter 22mm |
Material of housing | Hard wood and acrylic plates |
Operating temperature | 0℃ to 60℃ (32℉ to 140 ℉) |
Weight | 360g |
Each Set Contains
- A fully assembled IV-11 clock, ready to use out of box.
- 1 x IR remote controller.
- 1 x Power adapter (world wide use voltage).
Terence (verified owner) –
All along I have been fascinated by Nixie tube clocks but I’m sceptical about their tube’s lifespan and cost whenever replacement is needed. I began searching the net and I found this online store by Nixie Clocks Shop with its wide array of unique Nixie clock designs. After an exchange of few emails pertaining to tube’s replacement cost and shipping, I placed an order for one IV-11 VFD Tube Clock.
Order confirmation & delivery were pretty fast and after a couple of days I received my IV-11 VFD Tube Clock. It was nicely packed in bubble wraps, fully assembled (ready to go) with real hard wood base and black opaque acrylic top & bottom covers. When powered up, the IV-11 VFD Tube Clock was so mesmerising with its nostalgic look in vacuum tubes and LED backlight but with a touch of modern technology. The step by step user manual is simple to understand and one can always contact the salesperson, Shawn for advice.
Here I have to mention that the customer service provided by Shawn is impeccable and superb. So anyone contemplating to buy any Nixie tube clock do not hesitate and contact Shawn.
Lawrence (verified owner) –
Not one to leave a review but, credit where credit’s due, the product was in an immaculate condition. Additionally, Shawn was exceptionally responsive and attentive to any enquiries. Any shoppers on the fence should not hesitate to contact Shawn for clarifications.
Bryan J –
Awesome clock! I was diligently watching the tracking number in anticipation of its arrival and was half away expecting damaged product due to its long journey to Texas. When it finally arrived it was in perfect condition due to how well it was packaged and it looks awesome on my desk. Shawn even reached out to me to make sure it had arrived safely and was working as expected. This clock is worth every penny I spent on it. Thank you!
Cassandra Alexander (verified owner) –
Got the clock as a gift and it was really perfect & Unique. The clock was in splendid condition to boot.
Moreover, Shawn was quick to answer all my questions as I was rather dubious. He even let me check the clock before collecting it. Very trustworthy!! Would definitely deal again.