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