[Milsurplus] Vibrator Replacement Challenge

[Bill Cromwell]

Hi,

I have built and *used* the two transistors (plus a couple of resistors) 
in the astable multi-vibrator circuit (about 30 years ago). It used a 
ferrite pot core transformer but it was the circuit of a transformer 
with a center-tapped winding for the power input. I used a 12 volt DC 
input and powered / reliably operated the equivalent of a 6SN7 tube 
heater but with 1000 VDC exposure (CRT heater). By the way - high 
voltage came from another solid state 'vibrator' supply. For lower 
voltage exposure the teflon tape I used for insulation would not be 
required. I no longer have the homebrewed scope. I repurposed some of 
the assemblies 20 or so years ago. The point is - this will work in 
theory AND in *practice*. Somewhere around here I have the remains from 
a couple of tube type V/UHF mobile radios with solid state plate 
supplies and it's the plate supplies I kept (if I still have and can 
find). I do not recall how complicated - beyond two transistors - those 
are. But the solid state switching (in place of mechanical vibrators) is 
not some "new" pipe dream. I rejected vibrators and dynamotor operation 
ages ago but I recall the parts count being quite a bit higher than just 
the vibrator or the vibrator would not last. Vibrators are not needed to 
operate vacuum tubes with batteries for heater and plate supplies. I use 
a combination like that with my command receivers and have used battery 
packs with other receivers. Some of us run low power (tube) transmitters 
with batteries for B+. If you want to avoid keeping up with several 
battery packs you can rely on the mechanical or solid state switching 
(pick your poison) to get the voltages you need from a single battery - 
perhaps your car or truck battery. Or just get rid of the tubes (ducking 
and running). Get the tools and the soldering iron out and 'get er done'.

73,

Bill  KU8H