Z
On 5/25/2026 1:13 PM, J Mcvey via groups.io wrote:
I think the power supply is the biggest problem with the BC611.
Easily addressed using modern DC-DC boost converter technology. A "Nixie power supply" that sells on eBay for $10 will produce the current and voltage required by the BC-611 while operating from 6VDC and typically run 85% efficiency or better. I made a 3D printed housing with a power switch which along with a standard battery holder for four AA cells fit into a simple U-shaped thin aluminum frame along with 3D printed endpieces that make contact with the radio battery contacts. Others have 3D printed the whole works but to use a standard battery holder the walls need to be kept thin in order for it to slide into the BC-611.
The antenna-actuated switch will still turn the filaments on/off as always but since the battery-substitute has internal batteries I just pop it out and turn it on when needed. For the filaments you need just one D cell, and a 50 cartridge case (field expedient, per the manual). Or equivalent ;-)
73, Bob W9RAN
PS: Many of these batteries were made by Burgess Battery Co. here in Freeeport IL and during the war, in satellite plants in eight towns in NW IL and SW WI. This watercolor painting that is displayed in the Silver Creek Museum was done in 1943 and was found in the Freeport headquarters before the buildings were demolished. There's some damage but it refers to Burgess batteries as the "Powerheart for bazookas and walkie-talkies":
______________________________________________________________ MRCA mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/mrca Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:[email protected] This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
______________________________________________________________
MRCA mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/mrca
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:[email protected]
This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html