[ARC5] [armyradios] Re: OSS in Burma

[Bill Cromwell]

On 05/11/2013 06:50 PM, J. Forster wrote:
> This thread set me to thinking about a really kookie idea.
>
> Does anyone think it would be possible to re-tube an ARC-5 receiver with
> battery tubes, like the 1R5 and 1S5, replace the dyno with a B battery,
> and convert it into a low-power battery operated set?
>
> It would be even better if it could be done w/ 7-pin to octal adapters.
>
> I know it's been done w/ a BC-221 and FETs.
>
> Just curious,
>
> -John
>
>

Hi John,

I have read reports from a few people who have or saw those receivers 
with FETs in them. Others have reported running them from much lower 
plate voltages - down to 12 or 24 volts DC. I know there were octal 
"battery" tubes but I don't know if the right types are available. I 
would think they made all of the functions available in that style of 
tube. I have only one. That would save changing the sockets even if some 
rewiring is needed for different pinouts.

I have run the plate circuits on a bank of 9 volt batteries for 45 volts 
but with the stock configuration of 24 volts on the heater strings. I 
did not evaluate the performance with 45 volts B+ beyond go-no go. It 
was go. The heater strings are the real power hogs in those receivers. 
Using battery tubes might actually be worth the trouble if extended 
operation on batteries was the goal..as in this thread. I'm reluctant to 
move a 100 pound radio across the room and never mind about using 25 
native porters to move it across a big island!

I have a BC-1306 receiver here - provenance unknown. It uses battery 
tubes. It's a reasonable proposition.

73,

Bill  KU8H