VFD Vacuum fluorescent display screen

VFD stands for Vacuum Fluorescent Display, which can be understood as a type of vacuum tube. It operates by using electrons to strike phosphor, causing it to emit light, making it a self-illuminating display device.

Initially developed in Japan during the 1960s, VFD screens became widespread globally in the 70s and 80s. They could be seen everywhere, from car dashboards to radios and VCRs, dominating the era with their iconic presence.

Do you remember the audio wave displays on DVD players? Or the payment amounts displayed on cash registers?

VFD screens have become a classic, with their unique glowing effect and exceptional visual appeal captivating people. However, in today’s world, there are few manufacturers left producing these screens. The strict manufacturing requirements and high development costs (due to the need for specialized equipment) have contributed to their decline. It’s also worth mentioning that VFD screens differ from other display types because they support DIY customization. You can design and develop the content they display, creating custom graphics and lighting effects. However, achieving this is far from easy.

The remaining VFD screens today are mostly used in specialized work environments or crafted by enthusiasts. Some tech geeks even use them as secondary displays.

I think these enthusiasts who repurpose VFD screens as secondary displays are incredibly cool—especially gamers. When used as a parameter monitor for a high-end PC build (the so-called "ocean-view housing"), VFD screens bring a retro yet trendy vibe to the setup.

VFD screens can also be used as clocks, and among the many types of clocks available on the market today, VFD clocks hold a special place.