NOTE Open Nixie Project
Vacuum gauge
Vacuum Gauge
For rough measuring we can use a common manometer, but for more exact measurements a gauge for high vacuums is necessary.
These can be expensive but DIY solutions do exist such as a Pirani gauge which can be constructed much cheaper than commercial solutions.
To make a simple test bulb the tungsten wire (0.6mm) can be heated via flame and inserted into the bulb — avoid heating the bulb directly as this can cause the bulb to deflate due to its lower pressure.