Kenwood DG5 Emulator with Nixies is working!

I seem to be going backwards with my display technology for this emulator. First it was an LCD display, then LED’s, now Nixies! I completed wiring up a set of TaylorEdge SmartNixies (http://www.tayloredge.com/storefront/SmartNixie/index.html) using the IN-12b Nixie tube. They make using Nixies with a micro-controller easy. Each module has a PIC controller that is I2C addressable, so wiring is much easier than wiring up all the cathodes and anodes of 6 tubes – just +5V, +170V (for the tubes), GND, and SDA/SCL data lines. 5 wires daisy chained together.

I need to find an enclosure to get this mounted in, and given the size I’ll need I am thinking about a wooden enclosure with a speaker as well, unless I find some old test equipment shell I can mount this in – like an old Heathkit Frequency counter or similar.

So, to review, LCD is nice, LED’s are correct (the original DG5 used LED’s), and Nixies are the best!

5 thoughts on “Kenwood DG5 Emulator with Nixies is working!

  1. Charles Roberts

    Awesome work!
    I just bought a TR-520S as I re-enter then ham world. Having a digital VHO is something that really would like to have. I have ordered your board the BOM’s from Mouser and AdaFruit.

    BUT! Nexies HAVE to be used! I want Nixies!

    I’ll have to look at the web page for them but is there going to be a firmware update to add Nexies?

    C. Roberts
    N2KWO

    Reply
  2. Charles Roberts

    I’ve actually purchased Nixie tubes. Several types. Thin grid IN-8-2’s for the frequency (stand up type of Nixie with fine mesh grid) and a few sets of IN-1 (button type, also fine mesh) for 2 clocks (zulu time and my time) and also some 5x IN-9 Bargraph Nixie Tube Neon NOS for VU Meter for Forward and reverse power for SWR display.
    I’ll package it all up into a box that is fit on top of my TS-520s.

    C Roberts

    Reply
  3. MS

    Hi Steve
    Nixie display looks really fantastic !
    Are going to list this nixie counter soon ? I’m interested.
    It would be appreciated.
    Thanks
    MS

    Reply
    1. admin Post author

      I’ll try, been busy with work and life lately, hopefully I’ll have some time to dig in and update things!

      Steve
      KV6O

      Reply

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