From the Back Cover
No assumptions are made regarding any pre-existing knowledge on the part of the typical reader. Theory starts from the atom, through electron flow (conduction) and on to cover the functions of basic components - resistors, capacitors, inductors, transformers, diode, triode, tetrode, pentode and multiple valves. Radio transmission is briefly discussed before sub-circuits are described, from mixer/oscillators through to output stages. Example sets suitable for the improving restorer are described, then fault-finding and restoration techniques are thoroughly explained, together with an arrowed and numbered exemplar circuit diagram. The repair and restoration of all types of cabinet, plus an appendix packed with useful data and information, brings the book to the glossary and index.
From the very start of public broadcasting in the early 1920s, valves - vacuum tubes - were essential, first to the development and then to the advancement of radio technology. By the 1930s, superbly made Art Deco-inspired cabinets housed complex and sophisticated chassis populated with valves. For 50 years or thereabouts, valves remained the bedrock upon which the technology of electronics was built.
Vintage radios are often beautiful objects in themselves, well worthy of collection - but they are far from typical antiques; once restored they come to life. Their glowing scales and the warm, full sound of their valves is a revelation to those who experience it for the first time. This book explains how valve radios work and how to restore them, starting from first principles through to full chassis and cabinet restoration. Written by an established author in the field, it is packed with essential information for the practical restorer, regardless of experience.
