Saturday the 23rd of June 2012 was the first day of this year’s “Museums On The Air” weekend, and the Chelmsford Amateur Radio Society were busy at the Sandford Mill Science Museum in Chelmsford. Here are a couple of photos from the day:
The T1154 and R1155
The centrepiece for Saturday’s operation was the T1154 / R1155 combination. The T1154 is the transmitter and the R1155 is the receiver, and these units have some history. Over 80,000 were made, and were in use between 1941 and 1950. They played a significant part in communications during the Seconds World War. These radios were designed a few miles away from Sandford Mill at the Marconi site in Writtle.
CARS member Peter Bridgeman G3SUY started renovation on the two units in 2004, after being rescued from a barn by Brian Butler. Some changes have had to be made improve the transmitter frequency stability and to limit the harmonics produced. The T1154 is in perfect working order and was being used for operations on 80 metres, using a linear amp to boost output. HF conditions weren’t great on 80 metres, but close to 25 contacts were logged, and QSL cards for GB100MWT are available for those that made contact.
Thanks to Peter for bringing along these great pieces of radio heritage, and for allowing other club members to have a go. Here’s Tom 2E0TNC operating:
Also heard operating in the area this weekend:
- GB0SNB – The Kelvedon Nuclear Bunker Museum. Thanks to Kevin for the QSO with us
- GB1CHF – Coalhouse Fort in Tilbury. Thanks to John for the QSO
- GB2BM – Bay Museum on Canvey Island
73s
