Posted: 4/12/2016 2:47:16 PM EDT
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At the opposite end of the spectrum from the 15 KW amplifier, a replica of my Novice transmitter, built in 1953 while studying for my license. Power output was about 4 Watts.
It used a 6AG7 grid-plate circuit with link-coupled output optimized for 300 Ohm twin lead feedline. Folded dipoles were common back then because of the expense of coax. Fahnestock clips were used in place of power connectors, key jacks, and terminal strips. The original was built with wood from an orange crate, commonly available in the '50s. The power supply used a 5Y3 rectifier and was built on a similar "chassis". Most of the parts were salvaged from a defunct radio as every effort was made to keep cost at a minimum. Mowing lawns at 50 cents a pop encourages frugality. 
Put your finger in the wrong place and 350 Volts would ring your chimes. 
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The two Fahnestock clips behind the coil are for the link winding and feedline, the two beside it are for the primary. When operating there is 350 Volts on those two clips. On the transmitter is the coil for the 80 Meter band. The coil for the 40 Meter band isn't in the picture. Changing bands involved turning off the power, disconnecting the wires, lifting the inductor off of the popsicle sticks, and sliding the other inductor on. The two clips on the front are for the key. In reality, I never operated 80 Meters as a Novice because I didn't have enough room for a dipole.
I have used this transmitter on the air on both 80 and 40, along with this two stage regenerative receiver I built at the same time. The receiver is much more elaborate because it has to be stable. Basket-wound coils and popsicle sticks ain't gonna cut it on a 'ginny. The transmitter is crystal controlled, so one can get away with a lot more cheapness and still have a clean, stable signal. 
It makes one appreciate modern equipment. |
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Quoted:
It makes one appreciate modern equipment. It certainly does. Though you undoubtedly gained some really awesome MacGyver-like radio repair skills in building and using that equipment. All I can do is whip out my credit card and buy a new radio, or send the broken one in for repair. 
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One of the most valuable skills learned was how to operate split. Novice transmitters were crystal controlled and few could afford more than one or two crystals for one band. One called CQ and then swept up and down the Novice segment looking for a reply. In fact, chances were the Novice's first contact was made operating split. Back then the Novice license was good for only one year with no renewal, so spending $3 on each new crystal just didn't make good sense. We also learned how to take 99 Cent WW2 surplus crystals and grind them to a new frequency using a pane of glass and various abrasive grits.
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