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Radio-Frequency Vacuum Tube (EIMAC)

Physics

The instrument consists of two glass vacuum tubes in original protective wooden frames. The glass bulbs have ceramic bases with four metal connection prongs. There is a metal connection point just above the ceramic base of each of the glass bulbs. Inside the bulb, there are four metal cylinders arranged around a metal post. Under the cylinders is a concave metal disk. The center post sticks out of the top of the glass bulb. The tubes are supported by elasticized cotton bands in the protective frame.

Item a is secured in place by a piece of twine.
Item b is secured in place by a piece of cotton string.

Accession Number: 2014.ph.633.1-2

Alternative Name:

Primary Materials:

Wood, glass, ceramic, metal, cotton, twine

Markings:

On ceramic part of item b, there is a white sticker marked with black ink, reading “JAN-CIM 304TH VT254 MADE In U.S.A.”

On the glass bulbs of both tubes is grey ink reading “EIMAC Reg. U.S. Pat. Off. 304TH/VT254 MADE IN U.S.A Des. Pat. No. 127753 Des. Pat. No. 136792”.

On the top of item b, there is a piece of tape marked in blue ink reading “unknown”.

Dimensions (cm): Length 23, Height = 38, Width = 8.5 cm

Function:

The vacuum tubes generate radio-frequency signals. They were used to drive a radio frequency gas discharge for studying spectroscopy. These tubes are unusually high-powered radio frequency tubes.

Condition:

Both tubes and supportive frames are in very good condition. The elasticized cotton bands on both frames are brittle from age.

Associated Instruments:

Manufacturer: EIMAC

Date of Manufacture:

Provenance:

The item was acquired from, the University of Toronto Physics Department. The tubes were originally collected from faculty member Prof. Brian Stat.

Additional Information and References:

Historical Notes:

The tubes were most likely used for studies in spectroscopy by Prof. Bryan Statt at the University of Toronto.

Themes:
Flags:
  • Donated to UTSIC