• Power: 12 - 240V AC or DC depending on configuration.

• Frequency Range: 1,500 kc/s to 12 Mc/s across 3 switched bands.
  • 1.5 - 3.0 MHz
  • 3.0 - 6.0MHz
  • 6.0 - 12.0MHz

• Sensitivity: 6 milliwatts audio with less than 15 uV input
• Selectivity: 9kc wide at 6db down, 30kc wide at 40db down
  
• Tubes: 8 total:
  • 12SK7 (x3 - RF & IF Amplifers);
  • 12SA7 (Converter);
  • 12A6 (x2 - Master/Crystal Osc., AF Amplilfier);
  • 12SQ7 (Detector-BFO)
  • 12AH7 (Meter driver)

• Circuit: single conversion superhet with crystal or master oscillator frequency control.
  1 RF stage & 2 IF stages.
  • Crystal operation in all ranges, less sensitivity 6,000 to 12,000 kc
  • Audio Output Power: 1 watt with less than 5% distortion, 1.5W maximum

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The TCS Radio System was designed, engineered and manufactured by Collins Radio Company, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. More than 35,000 units were produced by Collins themselves and wartime licensees included: Stewart-Warner, King Radio, and others.

The system comprises the Collins Model 51Q Receiver and 50Q Transmitter and is designed for portable and mobile service - particularly where severe vibration was present such as in trucks, ambulances, motor boats, etc. The units were mounted in steel boxes and painted with Black crinkle finish. A sub-assembly type of construction facilitated easy repair in the field or on the bench. The TCS could be powered by AC or DC from 12 to 240V, depending on configuration.

The example featured here has been modified by adding a BFO switch, a pilot lamp, S-meter (powered by the extra 12AH7), and a monitor volume control. This has spoiled the appearance of the front panel somewhat.

Last updated 24th April 2003