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The Vintage and Military Amateur radio Society Please note: All
articles accessed from this page are copyright © VMARS or their respective
author. They may not be reproduced elsewhere, in any form without
permission form the author. This may be requested by email to: Webmasters are, however, welcome to provide a link direct to any article, provided its source (www.vmars.org.uk ) is acknowledged. The titles of currently available articles are underlined: to download, click on the underlined title. If you require an article that is not currently available, please contact the editor as above and we will add it to the site if possible. All articles are in pdf format, a free reader can be downloaded from here. Please remember that some articles are quite large and therefore may take several minutes to download. Articles will open in a new window, to get back to the index just close the article window. |
Summary of technical articles published in the VMARS Newsletter
Issue 1 – December 1998
Richard Hankins |
Describes an extensive struggle to repair an example of this monster, 350W fixed RAF Tx, which had evidently been "got at" by a previous owner. Includes block diagram, outline spec and sketch of the unit. 2 pages. |
Issue 2 – January 1999
Richard Hankins |
The author asserts that not only is this the finest of the WWII era manpack sets, but the reasons given for its demise by the MOD are not credible. Some sort of official cover up of a long forgotten embarrassment is suggested. History and description of set given. Block diagram, spec and line drawings included. 5 pages. |
Issue 3 – March 1999
Murray McCabe |
Full description of this VHF manpack set given, circuitry, accessories, specification. Similar sets from other nations discussed. Some pictures of the set included. 4 pages. |
|
Tony Helm |
Brief descriptions of the RA-1 and LV-80 amplifiers given, and a method of tuning up the LV-80. 2 pages. |
Issue 4 – May 1999
Ray Coley |
Ray suggests that the disappearance of the WS42 is less mysterious than it seems, and was probably due to a defence budget cut. |
|
Some thoughts on vintage radio nets |
Howard Aspinall |
The author discusses the various band options for vintage set operation, and sets out the need for good relations with other amateurs not interested in old sets, with their inevitably wide occupied bandwidth. Mentions the danger of Type Approval ceasing all such operations. |
On the wing of a Lancaster |
Stuart McKinnon |
Report of operations on the 80m AM net on 24th April 1999, with a fine variety of vintage sets on the air. 1 page. |
Issue 5 – June 1999
Murray McCabe |
Ways of powering the A40 now the original battery is obsolete, using the TR-PP-8A invertor. Includes invertor circuit. 3½ pages. |
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Richard Hankins |
Description of RF Amplifier No. 2. Includes history of variants, drawing of unit, and circuit diagram. 5 pages. |
|
Peter Walker |
The author discusses the need to keep emissions from vintage Tx’s clean from spuriae and harmonics if we are to avoid Type Approval being imposed. 1 page. |
Issue 6 – August 1999
Antony Wedgwood |
Description of set given, along with some pictures. Question of whether the ER-40A and WS88 have a common ancestor posed. 4 pages. |
|
Alan Morriss |
Description of the complete WS52 Tx/Rx given, along with pictures and block diagrams. 5 pages. |
|
Tom Bloxam |
Modifications given for WS52 Rx to increase audio output. Includes circuit showing mods. 1 page. |
Issue 7 – October 1999
Richard Hankins |
Traces history of this set, and the switch to FM during WWII. Gives simple non-destructive modifications to move set up to 6m band. Includes pictures, block diagrams, and layout for mods. 7 pages. |
|
Surplus Military Radio on the Net |
Murray McCabe |
List of internet webpages (with URLs) for all kinds of vintage and military wireless. 3 pages. |
Issue 8 – December 1999
Murray McCabe |
Description of this rare A41 variant. Includes circuit notes, comparison with A41 No.2 and block diagram. 5 pages. |
|
Howard Aspinall |
Description and restoration. Full circuit diagram and pictures. 4 pages. |
Issue 9 – February 2000
Howard Aspinall |
Description including block diagrams. Discusses how to use with non-military sets. 2 pages. |
|
Tony Helm |
Brief details of the GRC-19 set, with picture of the T-195 Tx. 1 page. |
|
Hugh Kemp’s EMER and Radio data index |
Hugh Kemp |
Listing of EMERs and other data held by Hugh which are available for copying. 4 pages. |
Issue 10 – April 2000
Richard Hankins |
Brief technical details with picture of WS19, C11/R210, R209 MkII, AR-88D, WS88. 3 pages. |
|
Mike Hazell, Richard Hankins |
Discussion of need to reform electrolytic capacitors, and description with circuit of unit to carry out this task. 3 pages |
|
Roger Spear |
Description of conversion of Pye Cambridge to 10m, with pictures. 1½ pages. |
Issue 11 – June 2000
Technical problems affecting radio communications by the Double Cross Agents |
"A former MI5 officer" (submitted by John Teague) |
Reprint of an article from "British Intelligence in the Second World War", 1990 Vol.4, which describes how radio was used to fool the Germans using double agents. 3 pages. |
Colin Guy |
Detailed description with pictures of the restoration of a dual 807 AM HF transmitter. 2½ pages. |
|
Roger Spear, Jim Cookson, Walter Farrar |
Brief technical details with pictures of Heathkit HW series, KW Vespa Tx, R308, Der Festungsnotsender. 2½ pages. |
|
Antony Wedgwood |
Comparison and description with pictures and technical specs of A510, HF156 and SR128 sets. 4½ pages. |
Issue 12 – August 2000
Military Radio Communications (Part 1) |
Brigadier J.B.Hickman (submitted by Chris Cooper) |
Reprint of a classic paper published by the IEE in 1947. Describes technical developments in Army radio communications, and how they were driven by the experiences of World War II. With additional illustrations of some of the sets to which the author refers. This first part looks at portable and low power mobile sets. 8 pages. |
Murray McCabe |
Detailed description with block diagram. Performance and restoration discussed. 5 pages. |
|
Richard Hankins |
Brief technical details, with pictures, of WS 38 Mk.I & II, WS 62, WS 46. 1½ pages. |
|
Richard Hankins |
Account of VMARS "radio camp" at the Berkeley Military Show, with pictures. 2 pages. |
Issue 13 – October 2000
Military Radio Communications (Part 2) |
Brigadier J.B.Hickman (submitted by Chris Cooper) |
Final part of a paper from the IEE Radio Communication Convention, 1947 (see Issue 12). This part covers high power mobile sets, wireless vehicles and long distance wireless links used in WWII, and also considers future trends. 9 pages |
Roger Spear |
An unauthorised but effective modification of a battered Heathkit DX40 produces the mythical "DX200" linear amplifier. 1½ pages. |
|
Martin Swift, Richard Hankins, Jim Cookson, Tony Helm |
Brief technical details with pictures of the B70 Link Equipment, Receiver Type R107, Receiver R206 Mk II, AN/GRC-106 (and GRC-106A). 2½ pages. |
Issue 14 – December 2000
Joe Bell |
A general description (with some colour pictures) of the Soviet R161-5 frequency hopping HF radio system, together with details of the R161-A2M version in its associated Zil-131 truck. Specifications and aerial layouts included. 8 pages. |
|
John Teague |
The history and development of the rightly celebrated ‘Jungle Set’. Includes design requirements, basic technical data, illustrations of both the interior (in colour) and the accessories, and aerials used to achieve NVIS propagation. Appendix on its use on the amateur bands. 8 pages. |
Issue 15 – February 2001
Notes on Radio Reception in Germany (1942 – 45) |
Anthony Lister MIEE |
How the author received foreign broadcasts while a prisoner of war in Germany. Notes compiled for MI9 on his return, and not previously published. Includes a commentary by John Teague. 5½ pages. |
Tony Helm |
A general description of the R134, a Hungarian designed tank radio that was one of the last – and most sophisticated – Warsaw Pact equipments. 3 pages. |
|
Enemy Airborne Radio Equipment (Part 1) |
C P Edwards |
A reprint of an IEE paper first published in 1943. It describes the most widely used radio communication and aids to navigation found in German military aircraft, with brief mention of Italian and Japanese practice. 3 pages. |
Richard Hankins, Roger Spear |
Brief technical details with pictures of the Hallicrafters S-27 and an Eddystone GDO. 1 page. |
Issue 16 – April 2001
Antony Wedgwood |
A brief history of the use of NVIS in the British Army. The concept is not new and was first comprehensively studied towards the end of WW2. It was used to good effect on long range patrols with low power HF sets such as the A510, SR 128 and PRC-316. Details of some specialised aerials, such as the Shirley, are included. 5 pages. |
|
Enemy Airborne Radio Equipment (Part 2) |
C P Edwards |
A continuation of the paper reproduced in Issue 15, including some photos which did not appear in the original article. 3 pages. |
Issue 17 – June 2001
Colin Guy |
A timely reminder of some elementary precautions to ensure a long and happy old age! 1½ pages. |
|
The TRC-77 |
Tony Helm |
Brief details of the TRC-77, an HF manpack designed for recce patrols operating in the forward edge of the battle area. 2 pages. |
Roger Spear |
How some historic items, including actual hardware, which were once the property of Louis Varney G5RV, were discovered and rescued from a boot sale. A fascinating piece of research, which holds lessons for us all. 2 pages. |
|
Chris Cooper |
Brief technical details with pictures of armed services test gear, featuring the Signal Generator CT 212, Noise Generator CT 82 and VHF Signal Generator CT 394A. 1½ pages. |
Issue 18 – August 2001
Enemy Airborne Radio Equipment (Part 3) |
C P Edwards |
A continuation of the paper reproduced in Issues 15 and 16. 10 pages. |
Mike Hoddy |
How a neglected and badly stored R107 was coaxed back into life. 2 pages. |
|
Tony Helm |
An attempt to classify so-called ‘spy radios’ into more accurate functional categories, prompted by concern that indiscriminate use of the term could ‘hype up’ the price of other special forces sets. 1½ pages. |
Issue 19 – October 2001
Enemy Airborne Radio Equipment (Part 4 - final) |
C P Edwards |
A continuation of the paper reproduced in earlier issues. Italian and Japanese equipment; installation practice, materials, components etc. 4 pages. |
Peter Sables |
Some of the fascinating byways explored by the author in the course of his hobby - 25 line mechanical television and an FM crystal radio, to name but a few. 3 pages. |
|
Peter Simpson |
A description of the author’s 1950s and 1960s stations, mainly based on Collins equipment. 1½ pages. |
|
Tom Bloxham |
Simple modifications to improve sensitivity. ½ page. |
|
Tony Helm, Chris Cooper |
Brief technical details with pictures of the Rohde & Schwarz SK010 transmitter and MF/HF Signal Generator CT 452A. 1½ pages. |
Issue 20 – December 2001
Colin Guy |
General description, technical details and method of operating some rarely encountered equipment used for gun sound ranging. 4 pages. |
|
Antony Wedgwood |
A brief technical description of this small CW transceiver, probably dating from the 1950s, whose purpose and use is obscure. 1 page. |
|
Thirteen ways to Prolong Transmitter Tube Life: Heintz & Kaufman Engineers Revisited |
Robert E Grinder (submitted by Alan Morriss) |
A reprinted article, which examines the scientific characteristics of thoriated tungsten filaments and suggests various ways of prolonging their active lives. 2½ pages. |
Battery Charging in the Field (The Hard Way) |
Walter Farrar |
A note on the WW2 German HLSa hand charging set. ½ page. |
Peter Chadwick |
How an HRO was rebuilt and became a ‘classic’ contest receiver. 1½ pages. |
|
Colin Guy |
Some practical advice on ways to measure aerial current – in the absence of a thermocouple meter! 1 page. |
|
Description of Radio Emissions |
Joe Bell |
A key to the modern system of designating radio emissions. 1 page. |
Gerald Stancey |
An informed commentary on certain questions about the development and construction of the HRO receiver. 1½ pages. |
|
Radio Parts Found in the Alps |
Roberto Orlandi |
Roberto and his brother visited a WW2 aircraft crash site, and were amazed to find recognisable radio parts. Photos and request for information. |
Issue 21 – February 2002
Ken Brooks |
The purchase and restoration of this ‘real man’s transmitter’, a classic design from the 1950s and once the treasured possession of a fortunate few. 3 pages. |
|
How could you! When is it OK to modify Vintage Gear? |
Simon Dabbs |
How much – if at all - can one legitimately modify classic equipment? A contribution to this never ending debate, using an R1155A and T1154 as examples. 1¼ pages. |
KW201 Receiver – a Restoration Project for 2002 (Part 1) |
Mike Hoddy |
A technical description of this 1966 receiver, with some thoughts on its future restoration. 2 pages. |
Colin Guy |
As vintage rigs go, the KW Vanguard seems to be one of, if not the most popular at present. After a short technical summary (including circuit diagram), the author describes the restoration of his set, which has now become his main station AM rig. 3 pages. |
Issue 22 – April 2002
T1154/R1155 French Style |
John Teague |
Notes on a very rare French military radio – Type number 3/11 – designed in the mid thirties for aircraft use. Technical specification and photographs, and comparison with its British equivalent. 2 pages. |
David Sylvester |
A commonly noted limitation of the (otherwise excellent) RA17 is its performance on SSB. The author gives a detailed description of how he put in a product detector and slightly modified the AGC circuit, with most pleasing results. 2½ pages. |
|
Replacing a Worn Out Rotary Converter in a 62 Set with a Solid-State DC to DC Power Supply |
Simon Dabbs |
Mechanical components such as rotary converters and vibrators are often the earliest items to fail on vintage gear, and the most difficult to replace. The author describes his home brew transistorized inverter, which has prolonged the active life of his WS 62. 1½ pages. |
The Hack Green Report |
Joe Bell |
Describes the Racal TR1870 installation at Hack Green Nuclear Bunker (see Issue 21 for details) with photographs and a request for help to get the unit going. 2½ pages. |
Colin Guy |
A follow up to the previous article. Discusses VFO instability, its possible causes and remedial action, and safety measures at the aerial end. 1½ pages. |
|
Restoration of the R1156 |
Roger Spear |
A brief description, with pictures, of the little known development of the famous R1155 receiver. 1 page. |
Issue 23 – June 2002
The RST101 – a Postscript |
Antony Wedgwood |
More on the Belgian Special Forces set described in Issue 20, - a testament to the value of the VMARS website! Includes technical specification, ancillary equipment and photographs. 1½ pages. |
John Teague |
An appreciation of this early but underrated solid state transceiver, which includes a true AM facility. 1 page. |
|
Jacques Feyssac and Murray McCabe |
An introduction to this VHF/FM squad radio, setting it in the context of earlier British, Canadian and US developments. 4 pages. |
|
‘G4BXM Goes Commercial’ |
Roger Spear |
Brief descriptions of three commercial rigs used (and rescued) by the author: the Redifon Radiotelephone GR 377DF, the Ajax Trawler rig and the Granger Associates SSB Teletransceiver model 174-2. 1½ pages |
Issue 24 – August 2002
Jacques Feyssac and Murray McCabe |
A continuation of the previous article: where to find them, general description and technical details. 4 pages. |
|
Netting the Mk 123 |
Antony Wedgwood |
The article describes a well established arrangement for netting the receiver to the transmitter, which does not involve any modification to the set itself. 1 page. |
Identification Unit RDF1 |
Robin Caine |
A general description of this equipment, the exact purpose of which is unknown – suggestions, please! 1 page. |
Richard Walker and Colin Guy |
How to power the set from a 5 Volt computer supply unit. As an alternative, Nicads can be used and recharged with a simple charger, for which circuit details are also given. 2 pages. |
|
A Further Note on the RA117 AGC System |
Neil Clyne |
A reader’s experiences and follow up comments on the modification suggestedin Issue 22. 1 page. |
Issue 25 – October 2002
The Museum of Cypher Equipment |
Ken Mitchell |
A brief description of the author’s museum, open to VMARS members by prior arrangement. 1 page. |
Dennis Starks’ history, edited by Mike Hoddy |
The compact design and robustness of the TCS series of equipment make it a viable (and, at present, realistically priced) mobile/portable station for VMARS type activity. 2 ½ pages. |
|
The Aspidistra Story (Part 1) |
Roger Spear |
WW2 ’black’ broadcasting from the Sussex Downs – its antecedents and development. 3 ½ pages. |
Colin Guy |
The original Soviet headset is not the most convenient or satisfactory for general use. The author describes an interface box suitable for connecting a standard Larkspur headset in its place. 1 page. |
|
The Muckleburgh Collection |
Colin Guy |
A brief description of this collection of miltary vehicles, tanks and aircraft, together with over 2500 other exhibits – including a substantial radio exhibition. 1 ½ pages. |
Richard Hankins |
The Canadian VRL receiver. ½ page |
|
The hallicrafters S-27C VHF Receiver |
Jim Cookson |
A description of the author’s set, with a commentary on its key features – and what still needs to be done by way of restoration! 2 pages. |
Issue 26 – December 2002
Deception by Wireless – The Aspidistra Story (Part 2) |
Roger Spear |
Concluding the previous article, including a fascinating description of the author’s recent visit to the Aspidistra site. |3 ½ pages. |
The Soviet Naval Spetznaz Tx/Rx ‘GRANIT’ |
Tony Helm |
Describes this small manpack radio from the 1950s, which roughly equates with the UK Mk 128 SAS transceiver. 1 page. |
Recorders Sound Ranging No 1 Mk 4 & 5 |
Jim Farquhar |
Further information on the equipment described in Issue 20, based on the author’s actual experience in use. 1 page. |
Gerald Stancey |
Suitable high voltage decoupling capacitors, frequently needed in restorations, are difficult to find. The author explores the issue of HF performance and how to decide whether your junk box replacement will be up to the job. 1 page. |
|
SOE Signals – an extract from OPERATION FRESTON |
Submitted by John Teague |
OPERATION FRESTON was the last SOE operation in Poland during WW2. Extracts from the book of the same name, by Jeffrey Bines, comprise remarks by the radio operator on the field use of W/T equipment (an AP 4) and a typical signals plan. 2 pages. |
Joe Bell |
A cautionary tale of fault finding and repair to this interesting but complex set. Includes some technical data which may help those who need to diagnose a problem in their own equipment. 3 ½ pages. |
Issue 27 – February 2003
Visit to the Signals Museum, RAF Henlow |
Chris Cooper |
A brief account of this museum, which formed the venue for a recent Committee meeting, and can be visited by special arrangement. 1 page. |
Simon Dabbs |
The common problem of operating 24V, usually ex WD equipment, from a 12V vehicle supply is addressed by the author, who offers his own solution. 2 pages. |
|
Colin Guy |
How to refill your Clansman battery with new NiCads – not as simple a job as it might seem! 1 ½ pages. |
|
Aeronautical Communications (Part 1) |
Submitted by Chris Cooper |
The first part of a classic paper, published by
the Institution of Electrical Engineers in 1947. It outlines the
operational requirements governing the use of communication equipment in
aircraft, drawing particularly on wartime experience. |
Peter Mellett |
The poor VFO stability of this ‘real man’s transmitter’ is addressed by the use of an external unit, requiring minimal modification to the original equipment. 1 page. |
|
Colin Guy |
Details of this useful PSU, which can solve the perennial problem of running power hungry 24V equipment from the mains. 1 ½ pages. |
|
Richard Hankins |
The need for M3s to observe equipment standards, particularly in respect of spurious emissions, raises the question of just how bad our vintage gear really is – and what M3s (and others) can do about it. Includes the results of spectrum analysis on several vintage transmitters and details of a simple filter for 80m. 3 pages. |
Issue 28 – April 2003
Aeronautical Communications (Part 2) |
Submitted by Chris Cooper |
Concluding part of a classic paper, published by the Institution of Electrical Engineers in 1947. 5 pages. |
Andrew Smith |
Describes a (fairly) simple and unobtrusive modification to this excellent equipment, making it compatible with amateur use on 7 MHz. 2 pages. |
|
Mike Hoddy |
The author’s restoration of this classic transmitter. 3 pages. |
|
Colin Guy |
An ingenious and non-invasive method of adding a much-needed squelch function to this VHF FM transceiver. 2 pages. |
Issue 29 – June 2003
Tony Helm |
Summarized descriptions for three Soviet manpacks used by Long Range Reconnaissance Patrols. 1½ pages. |
|
Ahoy there, Racal fans! |
Neil Clyne |
Problems with the RA117E AGC system on switching from standby to manual gain control. Describes a non-standard fix, but further help would be appreciated. ½ page. |
Antony Wedgwood |
The near mythical solid state version of the A41 appears at last. General description and pictures of the set, with details of how it was (more or less) got to work. 1½ pages. |
|
Colin Guy |
Suggested cures for loose valve bases and noisy PTT switches. ½ page. |
|
F Hueber (submitted by Colin Guy) |
A drop in replacement for those poor quality carbon inserts, including its own pre-amplifier. 1 ½ pages. |
Issue 30 – August 2003
Exercise Feeler |
Brian Austin (submitted by John Teague) |
Describes the special radio and radar trials designed to identify and eliminate problems of mutual interference during the D Day landings. 3 pages. |
Portishead Radio will breathe again |
Joe Bell |
A last minute visit to the Rugby VLF station ran some Portishead gear to earth, which it is hoped to install at Hack Green. Photographic nostalgia included! 2 pages. |
Simon Dabbs John Teague |
Repairing WS19 variometer knobs; restoring crackle painted finishes; the imminent demise of lead/tin solder. 1 page. |
|
Colin Guy |
A technical description of this 1970ish general purpose pmr set, operating ssb/cw on six preset frequencies. Includes guidance on setting up for 5 Mc/s. 3 pages. |
|
Simon Dabbs |
Benefit from the author’s experience of adding those essential finishing touches. Includes paints (with sources of olive-green); decals; knobs and machine screws. 1 page. |
|
John Keeley |
An appreciation of two excellent US filters, the F1482/GRC and F194/U. 1½ pages. |
Issue 31 – October 2003
The Bognor Regis Wireless Museum |
Andy Hearn |
An illustrated description of this museum, largely broadcast but with some WW2 military equipment. 1 page. |
Colin Guy |
A radio once sought after by the amateur community – and standard issue, years ago, for TVI inspectors! – but now almost forgotten. Detailed technical description. 4 pages. |
|
Roger Basford |
With Top Band and 80m increasingly cluttered with man made QRM, an active receiving loop may be the answer. An appreciation of the Wellbrook ALA1530. 1 page. |
|
Alan G Hobbs |
A technical history and description of this well known and once successful relic of the mechanical age. 1½ pages. |
|
Brighton Police Pocket Wireless Set |
Martin Swift |
Describes a very early experiment in (one way) police PMR. ½ page. |
The Orkney Wireless Museum |
Richard Hankins |
A brief description of this museum at Kirkwall, which features both domestic broadcast and military communications equipment. ½ page. |
Issue 32 - December 2003
The BC-474/SCR-288 field portable manpack transceiver |
Michael Starke |
An unusual and interesting US Army set dating from 1940 is described – along with restoration notes. 1½ pages. |
Colin Guy |
A 1960’s amateur transceiver of some note is described, with comprehensive circuit description, block diagram and photos. Circuit for original PSU is also given. 5½ pages. |
|
Simon Dabbs |
A very simple solid state substitute for a vibrator is given, with circuit. ½ page. |
|
|
Richard Hankins & Mike Hazell |
Failure of the C11’s aerial changeover relay seems endemic. Repair instructions given, with long term solution. 1½ pages. |
voyage of discovery – Part 1 | Mike Hoddy |
Description of the GRC-9 HF manpack set, particularly the receiver. Gives hints on restoration for use on the air, plus photos, a spec, contacts and some weblinks. 2½ pages. |
usefulness of the Crystal Calibrator |
Gerald Stancey |
Making the well known crystal calibrator more useful by adding more or different output frequencies. Circuits given. 2 pages. |
Issue 33 - February 2004
Low, medium and high frequency communication to and from H.M. ships |
W.P. Anderson & E.J.Grainger |
1 st part of an historic article reprinted from the IEE Radiocommunication Convention, 1947. Describes naval sets both well known and obscure. Covers transmitters receivers and wavemeters, 1934 to end of WWII. 5 pages. |
valves? | Chris Cooper |
An explanation and description of the CV valve numbering system, plus a list of valve manufacturers. 2 pages. |
New life for the FT200
|
Roger Davis |
Reprint of article from "Radio ZS" 1995 and QST Feb.2000. Covers replacement of the 6JS6C PA valves with the more common 6146B. 1 page |
Roger Spear |
Fascinating tale of old amateur rigs, Alf Grimsdale, G3CJU and Louis Varney G5RV – and their restoration. 1 page. |
|
journey continues | Mike Hoddy |
Continuation of article from issue 32, discussing the transmitter, its use, and a mains power pack. 3 pages. |
Issue 34 - April 2004
Low, medium and high frequency communication to and from H.M. ships |
W.P. Anderson & E.J.Grainger
|
2 nd part of an historic article reprinted from the IEE Radiocommunication Convention, 1947. Problems with radio during WWII. Shipborne aerials. New equipment based on WWII experience. 8 pages. |
Richard Hankins, |
Examples of instability in the WS19 and A14HP sets are discussed, along with cures. 1½ pages. |
|
Antony Wedgwood |
Connection of your favourite headset to a variety of vintage radios – a solution. A new source for A13 batteries. ½ page. |
|
D-Day deception plan – Operation Fortitude |
Colonel (Retd) Cliff Walters |
Reprint of an article from " The Shutter Telegraph", the Royal Signals Museum newsletter, describing the wireless deception of the Germans before D-Day |
Shaftsbury Valve Day 2004 |
Richard Hankins |
Report on the "Valve Day" run by BVARS in Dorset, with photos. 1 page. |
Issue 35 - June 2004
Five Megs! |
Roger Basford G3VKM |
Restoration of an old homebrewed valve Tx originally used by the ATC. 2 pages. |
VMARS at Flixton |
Peter Walker, G4PLW |
Vintage radio stations and displays at the Norfolk & Suffolk Aviation Museum, Flixton. 1 page. |
Colin Guy, G4DDI |
Dealing with interference from domestic electrical machines. Tuning inductive aerials. Finding noisy contacts on an aerial. 1 page. |
|
Mick Bone |
The fitting out of 1967 vintage Landrover with Larkspur radio sets, and RTTY installation of the period. 1 page. |
|
13/RV-3 (ER-95A) VHF FM Radio |
J Feyssac & M.McCabe |
Technical description with block diagram of the ER-95A. Review of actual working example and comparison with similar sets, like the SEM-35. Spec & weblinks. 5 pages. |
supply unit |
Ken Brooks G3XSJ |
Construction of a power supply built to match the style of the TCS receiver and transmitter. 1 page. |
D-Day Remembrance Net – 4th to 7th June 2004 |
Michael Buckley, M1CCF |
Description with photos of the stations that took part in the military nets, June 2004 including those from Gold Beach, Normandy. |
Issue 36 - August 2004
Colin Guy, G4DDI |
Notes on this 2m AM transceiver sold in the 1960’s. 1 photo of set. 1 page. |
|
Plessey PTR3411 "Groundsat" |
Joe Bell, G4PMY and Mike Pinfold ZL1BTB |
Description with photos of a little known "on-channel" VHF repeater system – a difficult technical feat, which was patented by the company. 1½ pages. |
John Keeley G6RAV |
Descriptions of rare early Naval radio equipment, with circuits and photos. 2½ pages. |
|
Colin Guy, G4DDI |
Detailed description of these transceivers, with photos and block diagram of the STR.9-X. 6 pages. |
Issue 37 – October 2004
The Lincolnshire Aviation Centre |
Colin Guy G4DDI |
Notes about a museum local to the author which includes radio equipment in its displays. With photos. 1 page. |
The Power of the Past Country Fair |
Peter Walker, G4PLW |
Notes on demonstration of the author’s Bedford QLR with WS19 etc on board, at a show open to the public. 1 page. |
Colin Guy, G4DDI |
Notes on how quartz crystals work, and how to adjust their frequency by various techniques. 3 pages. |
|
Phantom" The Signals Regiment in Richmond Park |
Roger Spear, G4BXM |
The author describes the home of the Phantom unit in Richmond Park, with photos. 1½ pages. |
Phantom Signals 1940 to 1941 |
Col (retd) DTW Gibson MBE |
Memories from an officer who served with "Phantom" describing long distance working with early sets like the WS1, WS9 and WS11. 1½ pages. |
Colin Guy, G4DDI |
Technical discussion of the switch-mode PSU used in the Clansman HF manpack, and the cure of faults in it. 2 pages. |
|
Events 2005 & Pippingford Park – the family weekend |
Michael Buckley, Richard Hankins and Andy Jackson |
Photos and info from events that VMARS members have attended during 2004, and request for input for events in 2005. 2½ pages. |
Discussion on "Naval Communication" |
Various |
Reprint of historical article from the IEE Radiocommunication Convention of 1947. This is a follow up to the 1st and 2nd parts of the article in issues 33 and 34. 3 pages. |
Issue 38 – December 2004
You can have this; its not working |
Mike Stott, G0NEE |
Experiences of the repair of a WS No.22. 2 pages. |
Tactical base station for VMARS nets |
Tony Helm, G4BCX |
The author describes the sets he uses on the VMARS nets, mainly of Warsaw Pact origin. 1 page. |
The "phoney" 12 set – a return to chassis bashing |
Roger Spear, G4BXM |
The building of a replica WS12 is described, for use with a R107 at the exhibition of the Phantom units in Richmond Park. 2 pages. |
The development of radio valves |
J.H.E. Griffiths |
Historic article from the IEE Radiolocation Convention 1946 covering the rapid development of the valve during WWII, particularly for the new area of RADAR at centimetric wavelengths. 5½ pages. |
The TAU Systems SPC3000 Aerial Tuning Unit |
Joe Bell, G4PMY |
Description of a high power ATU, built in the days when they were "big and chunky" and could genuinely handle the power. 1page. |
Issue 39 - February 2005
The Great Question….Just where do you keep your collection? |
Mike Hoddy, G0JXX |
One solution to housing a growing collection – with photos. 1 page. |
Modification of Crew Box 2-set and Design of an interface unit for non-Clansman Radio Sets |
Joe Bell, G4PMY |
Description with circuits of one of the main Clansman harness boxes, and details of how to interface other sets by picking up audio and control signals.. 2 pages. |
Replicating the circuit of the RST-101 |
Tom Smith, G3EFY |
A home-made replica of the RST-101 clandestine radio set, with photos and circuits. 2½ pages. |
G8LIU in BC342 mode (Part 2) |
Neil Clyne G8LIU |
Completion of the author’s experience of the restoration of one of these sets. |
Sets Wireless Portable No.1 – 1942 |
Capt. A.C.Wray RN |
Memories of using a WS No.1 and other sets in the Junior Training Corps and Home Guard during WWII. I page. |
British Army Wireless Sender No.53 |
Alan Morriss, G4GEN |
Photos, circuits and comprehensive description of this famous army transmitter, which the author regularly uses on the air. 3 pages. |
Colin Guy, G4DDI |
Dealing with some quirks when operating this popular HF transceiver. 2 pages. |
Issue 40 – April 2005
An Anthology of Wire HF Aerials |
Simon Dabbs, G4GFN |
Some wire HF aerials re-visited along details of suitable matching units. 2½ pages, outline drawings and circuits |
A few ideas about operating from a blind person's point of view. |
Mark Ellis M5AKT |
Operating radio equipment from a visually impaired point of view. 1 page |
Vibrator replacement – the professional approach |
Richard Hankins G7RVI |
Details of some professional solid-state replacements for electro-mechanical vibrators. 2½ pages, photographs, circuit and screenshots of operating waveforms. |
More on Crystal Shifting |
Dave Porter G4OYX |
Using electronic means to shift crystal frequencies. 2¾ pages with circuits. |
The BX-33-A Automatic VHF Aerial Tuner |
J.Feyssac and M.McCabe |
A description of the French BX-33-A VHF auto-tune aerial base - an accessory for the ER-95-A Radio. 3 pages, photographs, outline drawings and circuits. |
SIGs1 Grant Report – Project Witney Phase I |
Richard Hankins G7RVI |
Initial report on the Special Interest Group (SIG) project to construct a replica TRD Secure Transceiver. The TRD was issued to "Stay Behind" Units in WWII. 3 pages, map, photographs, line drawings and block diagrams |
Issue 41 – June 2005
The Harvey-Wells TBS-50 Series Transmitters |
Roger Basford, G3VKM |
A look at The TBS-50 series of transmitters and a description of setting a TBS-50C transmitter to work. 2 pages and photographs |
Recorders, Sound Ranging No. 1 Mk4 & 5 |
Bob Osbourne |
A follow up to the earlier article under the same title in NL26, information taken from contemporary training notes. 2 pages, diagram, photographs of actual recorder film and a cartoon caricature of D-Troop 7th Survey Regt. RA. |
Joe Bell, G4PMY |
Following on from an earlier article on the Clansman Harness Equipment, the interface requirements for a Marcon Scimitar V VHF Radio are discussed. 1 page and photograph. |
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Ken Brooks, G3XSJ |
The B2 Clandestine Transmitter and Receiver is described. 2½ pages and photographs |
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Some R1155 Hints |
Dave Kemplen |
A wiring schedule for the R1155 receiver function switch is provided. 1 page. |
Peter Shepherd, G7DXV |
Some notes on the Marconi CNY-2 transmitter. 1 page and photographs. |
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If you want to work the DX, use a telephone line! |
Colin Guy, G4DDI+- |
How telephone lines can make seemingly efficient top band aerials – how QRM from a faulty TFT Monitor Power Supply was being radiated by a nearby overhead telephone lines. 2 pages and photographs. |
Events Roundup |
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A look at VMARS displays at some recent radio rallies. 1 page and photographs. |
Issue 42 – August 2005
Murray McCabe |
Technical description of the UK/PRC-351, accessories and variants. 5 pages and may photographs |
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An update on Project Witney Phase 1 |
Chris Cooper, Colin Guy, Richard Hankins & Mike Hazell |
Progress report on the re-construction of the WW11 TRD Transceiver. 3½ pages with photographs and circuits |
Measurement of crystal current in crystal oscillators |
Gerald Stancey, G3MCK |
Methods of measuring crystal current with results for some typical oscillator circuits. 1 page |
Battery Pack for Manpacks AN/PRC-8, 9 & 10 |
Christian Epardeau, F4ECS (Translated by Simon Dabbs, G4GFN) |
Building a "genuine" battery pack for the AN/PRC-8,9 & 10 series of Manpack Transceivers. 2 pages with drawings and battery data. |
Operation Liberation 60 |
Jonathan Wymer, G8URE & Mike Buckley, M1CCF |
Celebrating the liberation of Jersey, 60 years on. 1 page with photographs. |
Restoring the Wireless Set No. 22 |
Ken Stevens, G4BVK |
Describes the restoration of a WS22. 2 pages with photographs. |
Crystal Grinding |
Gerald Stancey, G3MCK |
Method of crystal grinding using wet and dry paper on a flat surface. ½ page. |
Issue 43 – October 2005
100% Modulation of 150 watts of carrier – the easy way |
Peter Mellett, G3PIJ |
A simple AM modulator using push-pull 811s. 2 pages, circuit and photographs |
Ahoy There Landlubbers |
Neil Clyne |
British Naval radio Equipment. A description of the Marconi Tuner Amplifier B36. 1 page and photograph |
Bawdsey and Arnhem Comms |
Peter Walker, G4PLW/P |
A visit to the site of the Bawdsey Chain Home Transmitter Site for the Arnhem Weekend. 1 page and photographs |
An Interference Canceller |
Richard Hankins, G7RVI and Mike Hazell, G1EDP |
Describes a noise canceller for use on the 160M or 80M bands. 2 pages, circuit, photographs, test results and conclusion. |
Show Roundup |
Richard Hankins, G7RVI |
Report on various radio events, Including "Home Front United" at Oswestry 24th – 25th September with John Thompson, G3OKT and his 1952 Commer Radio Repair Truck, Leicester Rally with Stuart McKinnon, G0TBI. 2 pages and photographs. |
Pippingford Park, 2005 |
Simon Dabbs, G4GFN |
The Pippingford Park Event, 2005 |
Getting a WS62 Going |
John Mortlock, G3UGY |
Setting a WS62 to work, faultfinding and tuning up. Suggestions for increasing the modulation level. 2 pages, circuit and photograph |
WS62 Solid State DC – DC PSU |
John Mortlock, G3UGY |
Modifications to the WS62 DC – DC PSU originally described by Simon Dabbs in NL22. The TIP3055 transistors are replaced with 2SK22232 MOSFETs. 1 page with circuit. |
Issue 44 – December 2005
Another 19 Set Saved from the Skip |
Walter Blanchard, G3JKV |
A working WS19 resurrected from several boxes of very dusty, dirty and neglected kit. 3 pages and photograph |
It’s all Mikes fault! |
Steve Ward, GW1XVC |
Creating a modern/valve hybrid AM transmitter from the junk box. 2 pages, photographs and circuit |
The Wireless Set 24 – Candidate for a SIG? |
John Keeley, G6RAV |
A proposal to form a SIG to build a replica WS24. This VHF transmitter receiver was the forerunner of the WS19 "B" Set. 2½ pages, photographs and circuit. |
Simon Dabbs, G4GFN |
More on refurbishing the Clansman NI-Cad battery, the sensing diodes and a circuit for an auto-stop discharge circuit. 1½ pages and circuits. |
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Murray Mcabe |
Part 2 of an overview of the UK/PRC-351 FM Manpack Set, covering associated equipment and some typical transportable and vehicle installations. 3 pages, block diagram and photographs |
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URC-35 AND R-1051 RADIOS – SOS! |
Neil Clyne |
Basic information on the US Navy Receiver R-1051B/URR. 1 page and photographs |
The VMARS Nets |
Simon Dabbs, G4GFN |
Details of the VMARS AM, SSB and CW Nets. 1 page. |
Radioactive sets – time for action? |
Richard Hankins, G7RVI |
The issue of ionising radiation from luminous legends etc on some military radio equipment. Dosage levels and basic safety advice. A proposal to form a SIG to consider these issues. 1 page. |
Issue 45 – March 2006
Mike Green, G4EZM |
Describes a project to produce a PPI (Plan Position Indicator) display on an Indicator Unit 184. 3½ pages with photographs. |
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J Feyssac & M. McCabe |
Alignment of the French TR-PP-11B transistorised FM "Handie-talkie". 4 pages, circuits, photographs and test data. |
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Shift that Quartz |
Gerald Stancey, G3MCK |
Instructions for raising the frequency of plated quartz crystals. 1 page, photograph and test data. |
An American Secret Agent’s Radio Station |
Tony Helm, G4BCX |
Brief description of a CIA designed clandestine station from the early 1950s. 1 page with photographs |
A Note on R210 Vibrators |
Andy Jackson, G8JAC |
Technical notes on the XC354 Vibrator commonly found in the R210 HF Receiver internal power supply. 2 pages, photograph and circuits. |
A day out in Blackpool |
BRONEK Wedzicha, M0DAF |
A report on the VMARS presence at the NARSA (Blackpool Rally. 1 page and photographs |
Issue 46 – May 2006
Bronek Wedzicha, M0DAF |
A modification to increase the power output of the TCS transmitter is described and critically evaluated. 4 pages, photographs, screen shots of modulation envelopes and circuit |
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Colin Guy, G4DDI |
A simple unit designed to test Clansman Headsets is described. 2 pages, photographs, circuit and Clansman Headset Plug Wiring table. |
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Mains-Driven Power Supply Units For Valved Equipment – Part 1 |
Simon Dabbs, G4GFN |
First of a two part article describing the design aspects and safety requirements for mains driven power supply units. 4 pages and circuits |
1970s Nostalgia: Remember the "Woodpecker"? |
Simon Dabbs, G4GFN |
Adapted from an article by Mark Foltarz and Richard Morrow, K5CNF describing the Russian "Woodpecker" OHTR (Over the Horizon Radar) used during the Cold War era. ½ page. |
AN/TPS-71 ROTHR |
Richard Hankins, G7RVI |
Some information on the AN/TPS-71 Relocatable Over the Horizon Radar (ROTHR) taken from the Foundation of American Scientist’s website. ½ page and photograph |
Issue 47 – July 2006
Reviving a classic top band design |
Bronek Wedzicha, M0DAF |
A classic top band valve transmitter design taken from the 4th Edition of the RSGB Handbook is described. 4½ pages, circuit and photographs |
Mains-Driven Power Supply Units For Valved Equipment – Part 2 |
Simon Dabbs, G4GFN |
Earthing arrangements, power supply regulation and low voltage circuits are considered in the second part of article dealing with the design aspects of power supply units for valved equipment. Ten "Golden Rules" for safety are given. 2 pages and circuit. |
Kemble 2006 |
Simon Dabbs, G4GFN |
A visit to the Military Vehicle Trust Regional Show at Kemble Airfield in Gloucestershire. 2 pages and photographs. |
Murray McCabe |
The range of Clansman Batteries and their characteristics along with the Test Set Adaptor Charger DC are described. 6 pages, circuits and functional tables for the Test Set Adaptor. |
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VMARS Day at Flixton |
Peter Walker, G4PLW |
The VMARS Day and Open Day at the Norfolk and Suffolk Aviation Museum. 1 page and photographs. |