[Milsurplus] Another "what is it?"...

[w8au@sssnet.com]

At 09:57 AM 04/11/2003 -0400, WA5CAB@cs.com wrote:
>The MBF (technically, the unit shown is a COL-43065) is a single channel
>crystal contolled Receiver-Transmitter, sorta the little brother of the TBS.
>Output rated at 3 Watts AM 60-80 MC as several other list members have
>already said.  The one pictured appears to have had the receiver crystal
>oscillator converted to tunable as if memory serves, there was originally
>another crystal socket under where the vernier currently sits.  The power
>input connector is also missing, but it looks like the hacker at least left
>the wires close to original length.  Manual is NAVSHIPS 900,508.  The one I
>have over in the storage building is also missing the front cover but
>otherwise is unhacked, if anyone might be interested in it.  I didn't dig out
>the manual to confirm it, but looks like the crystals could be either the
>Navy version of the FT-243 or the larger ones made for the TBS.  I didn't
>remember the crystal sockets on the one that I have as being dual purpose,
>but it has been a long time since I looked at it other than to move it out of
>the way.

One big thing to remember:   The MBF is AC/DC.   Not so big a problem
if run on 115 VDC as long as it is polarized correctly, but can be a problem
to the unsuspecting buyer if used on AC.   Chassis is grounded to negative.
Use either an isolating xfmr or use the chassis to ground AC voltmeter test
before hooking anything to it....antenna or ground.

I wonder how many mil personnel ever got "bit" by this little unit?
Or blew a breaker down below on the electrical switchboard?   :-)

Perry    w8au