IN-14 Nixie Glow Tube – Glass DIY Clock Display Accessory

IN-14 Nixie Glow Tube – Authentic Glass Digit Display for DIY Clock Builds

Bring the warm, retro glow of vintage vacuum tube technology to your desk with the IN-14 Nixie Glow Tube. These authentic glass cold-cathode display tubes emit a distinctive orange-amber digit glow that no LED or LCD can replicate — making them the centerpiece of any handcrafted Nixie clock, display project, or electronics decoration.

Whether you're an electronics hobbyist assembling your first Nixie clock kit or an experienced builder adding to your collection, the IN-14 tube is a classic choice trusted by DIY enthusiasts worldwide. Made in Mainland China.

Key Features

• Authentic IN-14 Format: Standard digit-display Nixie tube with circular glass envelope — a timeless design for clock and display projects.
• Glass & Crystal Construction: High-quality glass body for a clear, bright, colour-changing glow display.
• No Matching Socket Required: Can be soldered directly or used with compatible pin connectors for easy tube swapping.
• Jumping Digital Movement: Delivers crisp, precise digit transitions — ideal for clock builds.
• External Power Supply: Designed for use with an external driver board (power supply not included, battery not included).
• Dimensions: Length 12 mm, Width 12 mm, Diameter 3 mm — compact and easy to integrate into most clock PCB designs.
• Weight: Approximately 100 g per unit.
• No high-concern chemicals — safe materials.

Soldering & Assembly Tips

The IN-14 tube does not include a matching socket. You can either solder directly to the pins or use corresponding pin connectors. Important: keep soldering time short. If pins are cut too short, prolonged heating can cause the metal pins to separate from the glass, leading to slow air leakage. We strongly recommend using pin connectors — they simplify assembly and make future tube replacement quick and easy.

What's in the Box

• 1 × IN-14 Nixie Glow Tube (glass)

Note: Clock housing, driver board, sockets, and power supply are NOT included. Battery not included.

Great Pairings for Your Build

Enhance your DIY electronics workspace with these related products from our store:

• 16-Inch Vintage Silent Wall Clock – Gold Shabby Chic Decor — a ready-made vintage timepiece for inspiration.
• Electromagnetic Induction Tester – Coil & Circuit Fault Detector — essential for diagnosing your clock circuit board.
• Air Compressor Pressure Gauge 0-10/0-12/0-25 Bar | DIY Tool — a handy addition to any DIY tools collection.

Learn more: OSHA on personal protective equipment

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does the IN-14 Nixie tube come with a socket?

A: No, the IN-14 Nixie glow tube does not include a matching socket. You can solder directly to the tube's pins or use compatible pin connectors. Using pin connectors is recommended as it allows for easier tube replacement and reduces heat stress on the glass during assembly.

Q: What driver board or power supply does the IN-14 Nixie tube need?

A: The IN-14 Nixie tube requires an external high-voltage power supply and a compatible Nixie driver board (typically around 170–180 V DC). These components are sold separately and are not included with the tube. Please ensure your clock kit or PCB is designed for the IN-14 form factor before purchasing.

Q: Can I use the IN-14 tube for decoration as well as a functional clock?

A: Absolutely. The IN-14 glow tube produces a beautiful warm amber digit glow that makes it just as stunning as a decorative light ornament on a desk or shelf as it is functional in a Nixie clock build. Many collectors display unlit tubes as retro electronics ornaments as well.

Q: Is the IN-14 suitable for beginners to DIY electronics?

A: The IN-14 tube is well-suited for intermediate to advanced hobbyists who are comfortable with soldering and working with high-voltage circuits. Beginners should take care to follow safety guidelines when working with Nixie driver boards, keep soldering times short, and consider using a pre-assembled clock kit for their first build.