BinKey

in-18-nixie-tube-sockets

3 min read

Important Note

This entire repo was AI created - including all of the data within. The intent was to A) help me with my personal electronics inventory; and B) see how I could use AI to make that process a bit easier. DO NOT TRUST!

IN-18 Nixie Tube Sockets

Details

  • Location: Cabinet-4, Bin 20, Section A
  • Category: Connectors
  • Brand: Generic
  • Part Number: IN-18-Socket
  • Package: PCB mount ceramic socket
  • Quantity: 8
  • Status: available
  • Price Range: $2-5 each
  • Datasheet: Standard tube socket specifications

Description

These are ceramic 9-pin tube sockets specifically designed for mounting IN-18 nixie tubes. The sockets provide secure mechanical mounting and reliable electrical connections for the large Soviet-era nixie tubes. These sockets are essential for any nixie clock or display project using IN-18 tubes, providing proper pin spacing and high voltage isolation required for safe nixie tube operation.

Specifications

Electrical Characteristics

  • Voltage Rating: 200V+ (suitable for nixie tube high voltage operation)
  • Current Rating: Low current handling (mA range per pin)
  • Contact Material: Gold-plated or tin-plated contacts for reliable connection
  • Insulation: High voltage ceramic insulation between pins

Physical Characteristics

  • Package: PCB mount ceramic socket
  • Pin Count: 9 pins arranged for IN-18 tube compatibility
  • Pin Spacing: Standard tube socket spacing (~2.54mm/0.1” typical)
  • Mounting: Through-hole PCB mounting or chassis mount options
  • Material: Ceramic body with metal contacts

Key Features

  • High voltage rating suitable for nixie tube operation (~170V)
  • Ceramic construction for excellent insulation and heat resistance
  • Secure mechanical mounting for IN-18 tubes
  • Standard pin configuration matching IN-18 tube pinout
  • PCB mountable for easy integration into nixie projects

Image

IN-18 Nixie Tube Sockets

Pinout

The 9-pin socket configuration matches the IN-18 nixie tube pinout:

  • Pin 1-8: Individual digit cathodes (0-7 or similar arrangement)
  • Pin 9: Common anode or additional cathode
  • Pin Layout: Linear or slightly staggered arrangement

Note: Always verify exact pinout with tube datasheet and socket documentation before use.

Applications

Common uses for IN-18 nixie tube sockets:

  • Nixie clock construction and assembly
  • IN-18 tube replacement and maintenance
  • Vintage electronics restoration projects
  • Educational nixie tube demonstrations
  • Custom nixie display projects
  • Prototyping nixie-based circuits

Installation Notes

PCB Mounting

  • Use appropriate hole spacing for socket pins
  • Ensure adequate clearance for tube insertion/removal
  • Consider high voltage spacing requirements between traces
  • Use thick PCB material for mechanical stability with large tubes

Safety Considerations

  • Ensure socket rating exceeds nixie operating voltage (~170V)
  • Maintain proper high voltage spacing on PCB layout
  • Use appropriate current limiting resistors in circuit
  • Follow electrical safety guidelines for high voltage work

Technical Notes

Important considerations for IN-18 tube sockets:

  • Socket must be rated for high voltage nixie operation (170V+)
  • Ceramic construction preferred for high voltage insulation
  • Ensure mechanical compatibility with IN-18 tube pin arrangement
  • Consider tube insertion/removal forces in socket selection
  • Verify pin contact reliability for long-term operation
  • Socket should provide secure tube retention without excessive force

Compatibility

These sockets are specifically designed for:

  • IN-18 nixie tubes: Primary compatibility
  • Similar 9-pin nixie tubes: May be compatible with other tubes using similar pinout
  • High voltage circuits: Suitable for nixie tube operating voltages
  • PCB integration: Standard through-hole mounting for easy PCB integration

Tags

nixie, socket, connector, tube, high-voltage cabinet-4 bin-20 status-available

Notes

These IN-18 nixie tube sockets are essential components for any project using IN-18 nixie tubes. The ceramic construction provides excellent high voltage insulation and heat resistance required for nixie tube operation. Having 8 sockets provides sufficient quantity for multi-digit nixie clock projects or allows for spares during prototyping. Always verify socket pinout matches your specific IN-18 tubes before final assembly, as there can be variations in pin arrangements between different manufacturers or production runs.

Graph View

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