[Boatanchors] THOSE OLD RECEIVERS

[Troglodite at aol.com]

In a message dated 3/11/2011 5:55:18 A.M. Central Standard Time,  
magoo at isp.ca writes:

We are  really spoiled today with the fantastic receivers available to us.  
But  the thrill of using a WS#19 set, S-22R,  BC454 or whatever to make 
real  QSOs is missing.  I guess that is why so many of us who became hams in  
the 50s like boatanchors today.
Interesting you should mention the WS#19. I was just discussing these with  
the Geiger Counter group. Did you know that the panel nomenclature, which 
we all  loved because it was in both English and Russian, was all Radium 
filled and  highly radioactive? I had several of these sets in my youth, and 
never knew  this. But a few years ago I saw one at a swap meet and checked it 
with my Geiger  Counter. The panel pegged the meter on the X1 scale at 2" 
distance.
 
This level is not considered dangerous, however as the paint ages, it can  
harden and flake. If you have one of these sets, it is recommended that the  
nomenclature be sealed by painting over it with clear lacquer or something  
similar. Loose Radium paint or dust is very dangerous as it can then be 
inhaled  or ingested accidentally.
 
Doug Moore kb9tmy