[GreenKeys] AN/TGC-1A - first torn-tape relay system - Lives!

[Duncan Brown]

Probably the only remaining AN/TGC-1, Torn-Tape Relay Set, designed in 
WWII,  just arrived at the AWA Museum today.



This was the first unit designed for store-and-forward relaying of 
teletypewriter messages. It was designed in 1943 by the Postal Telegraph 
Co. and then continued by Western Union (after they merged with Postal 
Telegraph). It consisted of two M14 typing reperforators and a 3-headed 
tape reader. It was initially known as "Package Unit SC-1A" when Western 
Union put them into production in 1944. Soon after, using the new 
Army-Navy naming system, its designator was changed to AN/TGC-1. They 
were used extensively by the US Army & Navy during WWII, along with 
other government agencies and WU up until about 1960.

Before this equipment was available, all teletypewriter message relaying 
(like with the telegraph) was done by hand. An operator would receive a 
printed copy an incoming message from one circuit, and then would have 
to hand type the message onto another circuit.  With the AN/TGC-1, a 
message would be received on perforated tape. An operator would tear off 
the tape from the reperf, read the address and take it to the proper 
tape reader on another circuit to send it on its way. Thus "Torn-Tape 
Relay".

This unit is labeled as an AN/TGC-1A", but there are labels for six MWOs 
(Modification Work Orders) on the cabinet and I assume that the unit has 
been upgraded to a "TGC-1B" or even a "TGC-1C".

It looks like it may never have been put in service, but it has been 
knocking around for at least 60 years and there is some wear. Also it is 
missing its "Signal Indicator Panel" and the tape bin, but hopefully I 
can resurrect them and get it operational.

More to come.  73,

Duncan Brown, K2OEQ
USASA    31J30

Antique Wireless Association
  Communication Technologies Museum
    Asst. Curator, Commercial Equipment
(also chief TTY op & repairman)

i-Telex: 212503

www.antiquewireless.org
Virtual AWA Museum TTY Tour: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TpB6jM90VV8

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