U.S. Navy FRR-23* and SRR-11

Manufactured approx 1950 to 1958 by RCA, Camden NJ

Type: General Coverage HF Communications Receiver (FRR-23)

          Very-low frequency Receiver (SRR-11)

Features: Sub-miniature tubes, modular construction, projection display

 

RCA was a leading manufacturer of receivers from the 1930s through the post-war years. Some of the better known models are the BC-312, BC-244 and BC-348. They also built specialized aircraft and marine receivers.

 

RCA built a series of receivers, the SRR-11, SRR-12 and SRR-13, which are nearly identical except for frequency coverage. This FRR-23 is of the same family, where the “F” designator indicates this unit was for fixed land station use, versus the “S” designator used for a shipboard unit.

 

These receivers were designed for minimum downtime when repairs were required. The entire receiver is built from modular sub-chassis, each replaceable within minutes using only a Phillips screwdriver. Although heavy (about 70 lbs), these receivers were also among the first to use subminiature tubes (which are soldered in place) to reduce power consumption, size and heat.

 

The unique frequency display uses a glass disc with micro-filmed dial markings and a projector lamp and lens assembly to produce a clear, accurate frequency display on the white translucent window.

 

* This is still my favorite boatanchor radio.  – JC