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The BT Museum Memorial Pages - Radio Items




Coherer

Coherer

The coherer was the first solid state detector for radio waves. Metal filings were contained in a tube between two contacts. The radio signal caused the filings to "cohere" together and pass a current to a signalling device such as a bell. The coherer had to be tapped to restore the non-conductive state. Electric tappers were developed later to automate the process.



Spark Transmitter

Spark transmitter

This method of generating radio waves was discovered by Heinrich Hertz. A vibrating contact on the right causes a varying current in the primary winding of the induction coil - the large black cylindrical part. A very high voltage is developed in the secondary winding which is connected directly to the balls of the spark gap.



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Exhibits: British Telecom Collection
Photos: copyright Sam Hallas 1992-1997

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