So I started working on the circuit for the Nixie Credit system for my arcade. The idea came when I was designing the arcade and wanted to let the kids/grandkids get the real feel of putting tokens into it. When I installed the system to accept tokens though, I noticed that Mame would not remember how many tokens or credits were in that game if they decided to exit and select another. Having a separate system outside of Mame seemed the best solution and while segment LEDs were nice, I had a few tubes left over from working on a Nixie clock. I felt that this would add a sense of rustic enjoyment and a unique talk piece.

Fast forward a few years and I decided to actually give it a swing. Originally I found a hat for an Audrino but the hat was not ideal as it would give false signals and accept interference that would make it work intermittently. This attempt came with a big change or using the Raspberry Pico which was broader in capabilities as well as gave me wireless capabilities so I can adjust between credit and free play without physically making adjustments.

At this point, I have prototyped the circuit and will be working on getting drawings done to have it printed. Once done, I will add updates here.

Here is a video of the final prototype working. The Youtube channel has more testing videos of various components as they were made. Feel free to check them out as well.

Create and Enjoy

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Filed under: Arcade,Electrical,Hardware,Microcontroller,Raspberry Pico - @ February 6, 2023 2:09 pm