Maker SHED

Somewhere at the junction of modern open-source hardware and early 80s Russia lives a beautiful new DIY kit called the Ice Tube Clock. The centerpiece of this old-meets-new clock is a Russian-made, 9-digit, vacuum florescent display (VFD). These types of displays were typically used in electronics form from the late 60s through the mid 1980s. Remember those bright green VCR and boom-box displays? Yep, those were most likely a type of VFD.

Included in the kit is everything you need to build a complete VFD clock. The power source, case, VFD tube, and all the electrical components are ready to be soldered together right out of the box. They even include the coin-cell battery for the battery backup system. The kit features an alarm, with a snooze function, and adjustable brightness, which makes it perfect for your nightstand.

These are in extremely short supply so if you don't get one now make sure to sign up for the "Email Me When Back In Stock" to get an automatic notification when we receive more.

Please note: This kit generates a high voltage — 40V to 70VDC. Only persons who are competent at electronics assembly and understand the dangers of high voltages may attempt to assemble this kit. Safe assembly and operation of this kit is the users responsibility.

• Please Note: This kit generates a high voltage - 40V to 70VDC. Only persons who are competent at electronics assembly and understand the dangers of high voltages may attempt to assemble this kit! Safe assembly and operation of this kit is the users responsibility.
  
  
• Ice Tube Clock Assembly Instructions

This is a complete kit that comes with a 110/220V 9VDC power supply (a $1 plug adapter from your local hardware store will allow it to be used worldwide), all components including PCB, vacuum fluorescent tube, backup battery and a clear acrylic enclosure. Assembly, including soldering, is required!

This kit is made of through-hole components but is best built by someone with previous soldering experience as there are many parts and steps.

Note: This kit generates a high voltage - 40V to 70VDC. Only persons who are competent at electronics assembly and understand the dangers of high voltages may attempt to assemble this kit! Safe assembly and operation of this kit is the users responsibility. No responsibility is accepted for any damage, injury or death as a result of assembling this kit or using the information therein. The assembled unit must be properly enclosed to prevent contact with high voltages and kept out of reach of children. Keep this kit away from water and other damp environs.