The core of this build are a few tiny NE-2 neon bulbs. These are the same type of bulbs you’ll find in old indicators, and require somewhere around 100 volts to fire. These bulbs are then ...

Neon bulbs work on the principle of voltage-induced ionization, creating a visible glowing plasma. If the applied voltage is high enough, around 60 to 80 V, electrons get knocked off the neutral ...

McClellan said the neon bulbs he was replacing on the theater marquee normally last about 20 years if installed properly. His company installed neon lights on the marquee nearly two decades ago.