what is nixieTC?
the nixieTC is a SMPTE Linear Timecode (LTC) A/B switch & reader using cold-cathode displays, otherwise known as nixie tubes. designed in collaboration with earlybird and built by Tungsten Customs, the nixieTC offers a bespoke solution to a niche need. the nixieTC was designed for entertainment programmers who utilize multiple streams of timecode while developing a production.
what makes nixieTC special?
nixieTC has been in development for nearly three years, with several prototypes inline at many of the worlds largest concerts, television shows, and special events. it's been tried and tested, beaten and broken. it was developed by entertainment programmers for entertainment programmers. it is robust, rugged, and refined.
why nixieTC?
as programmers we find ourselves staring at nothing but digital surfaces for hours on end and - more times than not - those screens are surrounded by black metal. with timecode being a heavy part of the workflow, and with the need to swap sources constantly - the function defined itself. the form is an effort to add a little warmth and comfort to the long days while interrupting the industrial monotony a bit.
features
outputs
the multi-pin output fanout has four XLR outputs for passing the selected (A/B) timecode to receiving devices, there is also one 1/8" output for passing the resultant audio to a speaker (if utilizing either 1/8" input), the output fanout is 24" in length
a/b switch
the main function of the unit is to swap seamlessly between two sources of timecode, for example - local playback & show playback - a passive double-pole switch on top of the unit selects between the A and B inputs, a domed white indicator light on either side reflects the selected source
inputs
the multi-pin input fanout has one 1/8" stereo input and one mono XLR input on both the A side (blue) and B side (red), the input fanout is 24" in length
outputs
the multi-pin output fanout has four XLR outputs for passing the selected (A/B) timecode to receiving devices, there is also one 1/8" output for passing the resultant audio to a speaker (if utilizing either 1/8" input), the output fanout is 24" in length
wave reshaper
the unit is equipped with a wave reshaper, which outputs a clean balanced square wave of a selected magnitude (-6/+0/+4/+6 dBu)
source L/R swap
the 1/8" inputs can be used for a split audio/TC stereo signal. the user selects the TC channel (L/R), and the other is summed to mono and passed to the 1/8" output
component protections
a custom printed circuit board and top quality components provide a durable and robust unit
indicator lights
a white LED in the nixieTC logo indicates that the unit is powered & when reading timecode, the unit displays the framerate and dropframe/nondrop modes on 5 LEDS - 24, 25, 29.97, 30, dropframe indicator
clock mode
nixieTC contains a real-time clock with battery backup, a button on the side of the unit seamlessly switches between clock and timecode reader modes, the clock can be operated in 12hr and 24hr mode
sleep mode
to extend display tube longevity and provide visual intrigue, the unit has an animated sleep mode that engages after 1 minute of no timecode
tech specs
internal components
- custom smt circuitboards, professionally assembled
- integrated high voltage power supply for nixie tubes
- 8-bit 16mHz microcontroller, custom programming
- passive analog switches with 5+yr batteries
dimensions
- width - 10" (254mm)
- height - 3.5" (89mm)
- depth - 2.6" (66mm)
- weight - 3.5lb (approx)
power
- wall-wart dc adapter, 100-240v, 50-60hz, US plug, locking connection to unit
i/o
- inputs -
- a side (blue) - 1/8" TRS female, XLR female
- b side (red) - 1/8" TRS female, XLR female
- outputs -
- 1/8" TRS female, 4x XLR male
what's in the box?
- nixieTC / nixieTC reader
- 24" input fanout
- 24" output fanout
- AC adapter
- instruction manual
options
nixieTC reader
for those looking for the styling of the nixieTC but don't require the A/B capabilities - nixieTC reader provides the same functionality without a switch
nixieTC
nixieTC reader
wood finish
both versions of nixieTC come in either a walnut or maple finish
nixieTC shown in walnut
nixieTC shown in maple
framerate labels
by default both versions of nixieTC come without framerate labels on the indicator lights for a cleaner look - for an additional cost the 5 indicator lights can be labeled with their respective representations
nixieTC shown without framerate labels
nixieTC shown with framerate labels
frequently asked questions
if nixieTC device loses power, will my show fail?
no! the inputs/outputs and switch are passive. therefore power or not, the inputs and A/B switch remain operational. the unit uses extremely low power analog switches run off a coin cell battery with an estimated life span of 5+ years. there is a low battery indicator light when it needs changing.
will nixieTC explode when I plug an input into comm lines?
no! luckily we've experienced that discovery so you don't have to. the inputs have voltage protection to prevent unnecessary cooking of components when patched incorrectly to a line with voltage. we still don't recommend trying it.
do the tubes burn out?
technically, yes. however these tubes should last 5 to 10 years with frequent use. the nixieTC uses easily replaceable (just unplug and replug) IN-12A nixie tubes. if a tube fails, it can be replaced for under $10 with no special tools.
are the nixie tubes fragile?
no! surprisingly resilient for something made of glass, the nixie tubes used on the product are very durable. while it's ill-advised to take a hammer to them, they should remain intact under normal travel circumstances.
what's the return policy on the nixieTC?
if there is a problem with the nixieTC, reach out and we'll get it sorted out. any defects will be repaired or replaced at no cost to the customer.
does the nixieTC have a warranty?
Tungsten Customs will repair any unit that doesn't work as described at no charge. the customer covers shipping. all units are tested before they are shipped.
order
orders will ship in 3-5 business days.
