hi again,
Yeah, I thought the PIC processors would be an issue...as with all things 'programmable', if you are into them, then you end up using them for most projects..but if you're not, then its not always worth the hassle of learning code/programming/quirks of the chips just for a one-off device. Always handy of you know someone who can help with it, bribe them with kind or threaten to break their legs
I've been going over those serial driver chips used by turboku..are the tubes he's using the closest to the ones you have? in terms of driving signals/voltage/grid etc..??
If they are (big 'if' I know) then we can use schematics for driving those as a reference, and attempt to design a circuit that behaves the same way as those serial driver chips, but with a parallel interface...without special (read: expensive) IC's...using only whats widely available.
Because ultimately, the PIC's used, send the drivers the same info as a MM5314, just in serial format, and they add 'blanking'. All they are really are serial to parallel converters, with an output enable (blanking) and high voltage capability. Depending on the drive voltage you need, you might be able to use a UN2003A darlington driver or something (50v capability, medium current), along with a TTL octal buffer (74HC541, or 74HC540 for inverting outputs). Blanking can be done with the 'output enable' of the buffer.
Getting a blanking signal from your clock chip could be tricky..it doesn't have one. However, according to the datasheet for the A6812SA (used by turboku) all it does is pull all outputs low. I'm afraid I don't know enough about your tubes to know what the exact timing requirements are. I still think it could be done with a little logic, or even transistors.
As for power supplies... even with the financial markets as they are, DC-to-DC circuits are easy
Anything from specialist IC switched mode boost converters, down to a 555 timer with an inductor, or voltage multiplier. Interesting idea about using AC for the filament heater.
It woudl be quite cool if you did it yourself from 'scratch', always satisfying creating something that doesn't currently exist.
Blueteeth