Chinese Military Radio

Type 823 Paratrooper Company-Platoon Level Direction-Finding Compact Transceiver

2010-04-19T00:57:00.003-04:00

Type 823 Paratroop Company-Platoon Level Direction-Finding Compact Transceiver was developed at the same time as that of the Type 861 transceiver, and it is based on Type 861 with additional direction finding feature. It was certified around 1979. Now it is long retired from PLA paratroop units.

This paratrooper’s radio is designed to be carried by company/platoon commanders and their team leaders. When the commander is landed, he would turn on his radio in a direct finding mode. The radio will transmit a beeping signal as long as the transition button is pushed. The unit’s team leaders would turn on the radio and find the direction of the commander’s beeping signal and act accordingly.

The radio is light weighted, only about 2.5 kg with antenna, battery and headset. It is measured 180x210x56 mm. It has 11 channels from 49 to 50 MHz with channel space of 100 KHz controlled by crystals. It requires no search and no fine tune, so it could be operated by anyone with minimum training. It also use early generation of IC chips as of Type 861. It is basically the same radio with higher output power and additional direction finding feature.

The radio’s power output is about 0.5W. Using 0.86 meter whip antenna, it has a range of no less than 2 Km in a normal flat battle field condition. The earphone and microphone are built into a hat and connect to a small power switch/control box and then connect to the radio body, the same one for Type 861. Unlike 861, 823 radio does not have a CW mode, and it has a volume control in addition to the high/low two-level volume control switch built into the headset control box. Addition to the channel switch, 823 has an operation mode switch, voice mode and direction –finding mode.

The radio is powered by a 13V Type 861 alkaline unit battery. With a 1:3 transmitting/receive ratio, the unit battery could last 6 hours. A battery holder, which holding 20 AA size batteries, is also supplied in case that unit battery is not available. I have two 823 radios, one was made in 1984 and the other one was made in 1985.

To find the commander’s signal direction, operator first finds the signal’s rough direct in voice mode with the whip antenna. When the radio is within 1 Km of the signal source, operator would switch to direction-finding mode and take off the whip antenna from radio body. At this time, the radio would use a bipolar antenna built inside the radio body to find the exact direction of the signal source.

As of 861, lacking a squelch mode is the biggest issue for the operator. Other than that it is a neat little radio which is retired from PLA paratroop units in early 90’s; and replaced by 870 series direction-finding radio, or TBR-115.

862 Gunner’s Radio Transceiver

2010-03-31T12:09:00.007-04:00

Several years after early gunner’s radio project was cancelled, the project was resumed in mid 70s’. It is the result of continue great pressure from the USSR. To better coordinate the anti-tank guns in the field, China needs better communication equipments other than field telephones. The radio was developing at the same time as that of the 861 radio but with different group. The radio, called 862 gunner’s radio, was certified in late 70s’. An improved version, 862A, was introduced later in early 80s’.

This gunner’s radio transceiver is designed to be carried by artillery gunners, especially the anti-tank gunners. It is light weighted, only about 2.2 kg with antenna, battery and headset. and measured 170x135x55 mm. It has 10 channels (34.25, 34.35, 34.45, 34.55, 34.65 and 34.75 MHz) controlled by six crystals. It requires no search and no fine tune, so it could be operated by anyone with minimum training. It is more or less the same radio as the early gunner’s radio. The only operable switches/knobs are the channel switch and a volume control knob.

The radio uses a 0.5 meter whip antenna. An external wire antenna could also be used in place of the 0.5 meter whip antenna. The earphone and microphone are built into a hat and connect to a small power switch control box and then connect to the radio body. Unlike that of 861 serious, there is no volume control built onto the PTT control, instead, there is a volume control knob on top of the radio. Unlike 861, 862 radio does not have a CW mode.

The radio is powered by a 13V Type 861 alkaline unit battery. With a 1:3 transmitting/receive ratio, the unit battery could last 6 hours. A battery holder, which holding 20 AA size batteries, is also supplied in case that unit battery is not available.
The radio output power is about 0.3W. The stated range is 2.5 km in a flat field. My sample is made in 1983 with a manufactory serial number of 833808.

A Brief History on the Development of Chinese Infantry Portable Transceivers (Part Three)

2010-03-11T13:35:00.006-05:00

VI. Third Generation

In mid 70s, PLA gave requirements for third generation infantry radios. It has to be light weighted, easy to operate/channel based and reliable. A 10 W SSB device went into development first in mid-70 targeted replacing the Silicon 2 W. However, the development mat its difficulty in late 70’s since manufactory could not develop a reliable frequency syntheses device. A stop gap transceiver was introduced, crystal controlled version of 10W SSB transceiver (with an industry name of D2), in late 70s. This radio saw action in Sino-Vietnam boarder conflict in 80s, but never saw large scale deployment in the troops.

Finally, in mid 80, reliable frequency syntheses device was produced and 10W frequency syntheses SSB transceiver was sent to troop and also saw later stage of Sino-Vietnam border conflict in 80s. The former code name is TBR-130 and the industry name is D2A. The 10 Watt Frequency Syntheses SSB transceiver is designed to replace Silicon 2 Watt and in some cases 81 Compact transceivers in infantry units. A 15W scale up version, D2B, was introduced later to compete with BWT-133, but failed.

Later than that of 10 Watt Frequency Syntheses SSB, development of replacement radio of Type 81 Compact started in 1978, and a general purpose VHF FM radio was also requested in the same time. There were some arguments on whether or not to combine SSB and VHF into one machine. A decision was reached that three models would be developed at the same time. There are BWT133 15W SSB, BWT119 6W general purpose VHF radio, and TBR-122 dual mode radio with 15W SSB and 6W VHF. The development works finished in mid 80s and the military adopted the BWT-133 and BWT119, and TBR122 only saw limited deployment. The military code name for BWT-133 and BWT-119 are TBR-131 and TBR-120 accordingly.

TBR-131/BWT-133 is the major Division-Regiment level short ware SSB radio starting in 90s replacing all Type 81 Compact radios. BWT-119/TBR-120 is the first general purpose VHF radio replacing 884, 7 series and, in some cases, 861/862/7011 radios.

TBR-115 Company-Platoon level Compact VHF transceiver is a result of Sino-American technology transfer taken place in early 80s during so-called “Honeymoon” period. It is modeled after American AN/PRC-139 and is designed to equip battalion-company-platoon level commanding personal in infantry, artillery, airborne and marine units, replacing 861(A), 862(A), 823, 7011 transceivers and other similar radios. It also could communicate with 861, 823, 884, and other transceiver working within its frequency range. With the technology transfer, design work was started in mid 80s and the machine was certified in early 90s, likely in 1992. An all domestic components version was introduced later as TBR-116. TBR 115 and 116 have exactly the same externals but with redesigned circuit based on domestic produced microprocessor and other IC chips.

TBR-142 artillery communication system was developed in 90s and it contains three major devices, TBR-142(I) VHF transceiver, TBR-142(II) control device and TBR-142(IIID) multi-function field telephone. It is designed to replace 862 radio and equip the artillery front line observation post, individual artillery squad. It could achieve voice or date communicate wired or wireless between command center, observation posts and artillery units within 20Km.

TBR-001 is PLA’s first squad level transceiver developed in 90s. Before TBR-001, there are only receivers (804, 826 and etc) designed to equip in squad level. However, its relative short range (less than 1km) limits its deployment. An improved version TBR-001A was introduced later in 90s with additional feature like speaks, however, it still did not get large scale deployment.

870 paratrooper’s radio series was developed in late 90 to replace 823 radio and 826 receiver. The series contains 870 paratrooper’s transceiver, 871 receiver, 872 signal transmitter and 873 direction locator. An improved series was introduced in late 90s. The 872 signal transmitter is a small device. Once turn on, it transmits a coded signal until it is turned off. It could not only be used by the leaders to gather their troops but also could be used to locate the heavy equipments dropped separately. The 873 direction locator is a small handhold device to locate the 872 transmitter. The 871 receiver equips every paratrooper, and it is a two-piece device mounted on paratrooper’s helmet.

In 80s and 90s, we saw large number (in term of different models) of radio equipments coming out of Chinese electronic industry; however, few was adopted by the military. You could see some fancy toys in newspaper and magazine, but most of them are just in trial. In this period, 10 W SSB, BWT133/TBR131, BWT-119/TBR-120, and TBR-115 are the mainstream man-pack radios in PLA infantry.

VII. Beyond

When history turned away from 80s, it marked the beginning of a new era. We saw a series of incidents. The 89 incident marked the end of military operation between China and the West. The technical assistant from the West is stopped and Russian technology started to flow in, however, in term of field portable wireless technology, Russian is not ahead of China too much. China is on herself once again. The Gulf War in 1990 really shocked the leadership of Chinese military and China Started to emphasize on technology. The US bombing on Chinese embassy in Belgrade in May 1999 made Chinese leadership realized that an armed conflict with US is not unlikely. Money started to pour into military R&D after the bombing. Some of the R&D institutes and manufactories started 611 work schedules (6 days a week, 11 hours per day). The result of it started to show up recently.

TBR-121 VHF transceiver, TBR-133 5W and TBR-134 20W SSB transceiver appeared around 2000, they replace BWT-119/TBR-120, TBR-130 and BWT-133/TBR-131 series accordingly. They are characterized by full digital data, self-adaptive control (including automatic antenna tuner) and frequency agile. In 2004, TBR-121C won a national award for its break though in wireless communication technology. It was reported that it had IP based wireless networking capabilities and is on par with US SINCGARS ASIP.

After 60 years, China is finally catching up with the world in term of field tactical portable transceiver. In recent years, the development scale of Chinese military technology is unseen in history, driven by military press from the US and backed by economic and technology boom. Don’t be surprise that there will be more and more new fancy toys coming out of Chinese military manufactories in the near future

A Brief History on the Development of Chinese Infantry Portable Transceivers (Part Two)

2010-03-01T13:49:00.001-05:00

IV. Second Generation
In early 60s, due to the development of transistor technology, the request to make the portable transceiver smaller and lighter could be materialized. The first such radio is Type Eight One Compact which means smaller version of Type Eight One. The development was started in early 60’s. Due to lack of reliable out power amplifier transistor, the receiver part was release first as 139A SW receiver in early 60s (an all silicon version of 139A was introduced later as 139B). In 1966, the new radio started to appear in PLA for trial use. Its size and weight were only half of that of Type Eight One.

The feedback from the troop was mixed. Troops welcomed this much smaller and lighter radio; however, this radio faced a list of technical problems. On top of the list was that the transistor in transmitting amplifier stag was very easy to get fried. To solve this long list of issues, manufactory had been working on improved versions for 10 years. In early 70s, The Type Eight One Compact (A) is certified. The amplifier transistor issue was still exists. Starting from March 1972, a campaign was launched included a number of manufactories and research institutes, this problem was finally resolved after 6 months of intensive R&D. Then Eight One Compact (B) was certified in May 1973. The B version is the mostly produced version in Eight One Compact series, and most of the issues are basically resolved, but not completely until Eight One Compact (C) was introduced in late 70s.

The development of transistor version of Regiment-Battalion Level transceiver was started later than that of Type Eight One Compact; however, it matured in 1969 much earlier than that of Type Eight One Compact. Unless Type Eight One Compact, it used all silicon transistors from the beginning. That is why it got a name of Silicon Two Watt. In early 1970, the production of Silicon 2 W had spread to 14 manufactories nation wide. It was finally certified by military in May 1973 as Type 73 Regiment-Battalion Level Short Wave transceiver. Unless that of Type Eight One Compact, Silicon Two Watt has only one improved version introduced in mid 70s.

7 series VHF FM backpacks were developed in late 60s to replace the heavy A series VHF FM backpacks. They are second generation VHF backpack radios developed 100% by China. They use all silicon transistors and much lighter and smaller than A series, and use much less power. However basic functionalities remain the same as A series. It has four radios, 705, 708, 709 and 714 to cover different frequency range. Development started in late 60s; production started in early 70s. They were certified by military in 1973. Improved A, B and C versions were introduced later in mid 70s.

884 VHF FM Battalion-Company level transceiver was developed in late 60s, and certified in 1972. It is the all transistor version of 883 radio. Unless other radios developed at this period, 884 radio does not have any improved version introduced during its entire service life. 884 radios were supplied to Vietcom in large quantity in early 70’s even before that of Chinese army.

In early 60s, an all transistor receiver was introduced as 239 SW receiver. It has much better sensitivity, selectivity and much wider frequency range than 139A/B receiver. A much improved all silicon transistor version was introduced in late 60 as 339 receiver. Production of 339 receiver had been continued until early 80s, and it is still widely used by HAM nowadays.

In this period, Type Eight One Compact, Silicon Two Watt transceivers plus 884, 7 series VHF FM transceivers formed the backbone of PLA infantry field portable transceivers. They were widely used by both sides of 1979 border conflict between Vietnam and China, and retired in mid 80’s.

V. In Between

All of second generation radio has one or more continuous band(s). This required a dedicated radio operator. In 1968, requirement was given for a light weighted, simple to operate artillery gunner’s radio. Wuhan Wireless Manufactory create this gunner’s radio in 1971 and samples were sent to troop for trial use. It is light weighted (less than 1kg) and channel based. This project was canceled in 1971 for political and economic reason. The development was resumed in 1973. This time, the project consists three models, Type 861 Company-Platoon Level Transceiver, Type 862 gunner’s radio and Type 823 paratrooper’s direction finding radio. They share a similar features and construction and use early type of IC chips. They all certified in 1979 and 861 radio saw large scale of operation in Sino-Vietnam boarder conflict in 80s. In this series, there are 804 receiver to be used with 861 radio and 826 receiver to be used with 823 radio. However, these two receivers did not see large scale deployment.

In early 80s, 70 series radio was developed for the infantry reconnaissance units. The series has 7011 transceiver, 7012 direction finding receiver and 7013 sub-compact transceiver. 7013 has a size of a regular cigarette pack, a range of several hundreds meters and only two channels. They also saw operation in Sino-Vietnam boarder conflict in 80s.

In this period, the radios developed have characters of light weight, channel based and crystal controlled. Some like to put these radios into third generation group, but I like to categorize these as pre-third generation. You could also add 10W crystal-control SSB to this list. Since it is tied too close to the third generation radios, I would like to introduce it in the next chapter.

A Brief History on the Development of Chinese Infantry Portable Transceivers (Part One)

2010-02-23T11:32:00.004-05:00

I. The Beginning

Before 1949, China had very limited production capability in term of wireless communication equipments. The function of its radio industry was focus on repairing and assembling using imported design and parts. This is not only limited by its technology but also limited by its policy. The government at that time relies on US to supply most of its needs. PLA does not have this production capability either. All of its equipments were either captured from Nationalist force or purchased somehow.

In 1949, when nationalist government was kicked out and communist force took over the government, it took over about 12 wireless manufactories with it. They were mainly repair shops at that time; however, some of them would become very large enterprises and very famous in electronic industry in China. Amount them, there were Nanjing Wireless Works and Tianjing Wireless Works. They were called Works 714 and Works 712 accordingly in 50s.

This article covers only the field portable infantry transceivers and receivers developed by China from 1949 to nowadays.

II. First Generation

The development of Chinese first generation field tactical radio started when China stepped into Korea War. There was pressing need for field radios. Other than purchasing from USSR, requirements were also given to the manufactories that just took over.

Requirement was given to Tianjing Wireless Works (Works 712) for a Division-regiment level transceiver in August 1950. In June 1951, Works brought out its product and it is the Type Eight One Transceiver. It was a 15W short ware transceiver and it used a power amplifier tube made by Nanjing Wireless and imported tubes from Hungary. All other parts were made by the Works itself. It went into production in 1952 and saw action in later stage of Korea War. It is the main PLA division-regiment level radio in the 50s and 60s. The early production version has transmitter and receiver built into one container; and later version separates the transmitter and receiver to make carrying easier. The separated receiver in Type Eight One set is also called 139 SW receiver.

Tianjing Wireless was also given requirement for a Battalion-Company level VHF transceiver in end of 1950. Development started in November 1950 and the radio was based on BC-611 but used only two tubes. Works 712 successfully brought out this machine in April 1951. Its code name is 702 and saw action before the end of Korea War.

Requirement for a Regiment-Battalion level HF transceiver was given to Nanjing Wireless in November 1951. Sample was built in March 1952. It is the Type Seven One Regiment-Battalion level short ware transceiver. Other than the imported tubes, all of the part and components were made by the Works itself. It also saw action in Korea War.
At same time period, Nanning Wireless also developed 150 W Type Nine One transmitter and 7512 receiver (not really very portable, 91 itself weights several hundreds kg), which were copies of Soviet designs. They were supplied to troops starting in 1950.

In April 1953, a military cooperation treaty was signed between China and Soviet, this lead to license produce of a range of military hardware, amount them, there were A series VHF FM transceivers, which is copies of Soviet R-105, R-108 and R-109.

A series has four models (A130, A211, A212 and A233) covering four different VHF bands. They are adopted by artillery force to form artillery communication network. The A120 is a battalion-company level radio; however, it was not adopted by PLA.

In this period, Type Nine One (with 7512 receiver), Type Eight One, Type Seven One short ware AM transceivers plus 702, A series VHF FM transceivers formed the backbone of PLA infantry field portable transceivers.

III. The Hybrid

Since the first generation transceivers were bulky and heavy, urgent request from the troop to reduce the size and weight was there since the very beginning. There were two ways to reduce the size and weight. One is to minimizing the tubes and power supplies; the other one is to using transistors instead of tubes. Chinese choose the second one.

In November 1956, first transistor was developed. At the same year, a concept transistor transceiver was made in Shijiazhuang Communication Research Institute. However, there is no power amplifier transistor that can meet the transmitting power amplification requirement available at that time. The solution is to still use the tube for the power amplifier stage. In other stages, use transistors. It is a hybrid design popular in the late 50s.

In 1956, Troop 0038 (called 19th Search Institute later) started development on a hybrid transceiver. Wuhan wireless works joined this project in 1958. After 6 years of hard work, 8 samples were produced in July 1962. Full scale production started in July 1963, and it is certified by military as Type 62 VHF Battalion-company level FM transceiver, also known as 883 transceiver. It was in production until early 70s and replaced by 884 transceiver in early to mid 70s.

A portable version of Type Nine One is also introduced in this period as 116 150 W transmitter. The design is about the same as the Type Nine One, and it used some transistors to replace some tubes to reduce the weight and size. However, it was still largely a tube transmitter. It was in production until early 70s and equipped Army level HQs.

2010-02-13T22:20:00.001-05:00

BWT-133 15W SSB Transceiver (TBR-131)

2010-02-08T21:06:00.002-05:00

BWT-133 is the second field portable SSB device sees large scale deployment in infantry units. It is the third generation short ware SSB transceivers developed after TBR-130/10 W Frequency Syntheses SSB. The requirement was given in 1978 and samples were sent to troop in late 80s and certified in early 90s. It is the major division/regiment level transceivers in 90s and up until recently. It is being replaced by TBR-134 20W full digital frequency agile SSB device.

The BWT-133 Frequency Syntheses SSB transceiver is designed to replace Type 81 Compact in infantry units, and formal code name was given as TBR-131 in mid 90s when new military equipment naming convention was introduced, however, most people still call it BWT-133 and even manufactory still uses BWT-133 on the radio’s name plate. There are two major versions; the early version is LSB only device plus an AM compatible mode, the later version could operate in both LSB and USB modes plus an AM compatible mode. This device covers 1.600 to 29.999 Mhz with 28400 possible channels, controlled by a full digital Frequency Syntheses device.

The radio itself weights 7 kg and the system (including antenna, headset, carrying harness and battery) weights 14 kg, and the radio itself measures 286x98x262mm and radio plus battery measure 286X98X353mm. In addition to backpack configuration, BWT-133 could also be a vehicle mount device. In this configuration, it usually works with a 100W output power amplifier and a 12V DC power regulator.

This device is powered by 25 V/3 A DC power with full working condition when the power source is within 21.6 and 28 V. The power source could be a detachable 24V rechargeable battery unit, hand-crank 24 V DC power generator, or any external 24 V/3 A power source. The output power has two level in SSB mode, 15 W and 4.5 W. The output power for AM compatible mode is 4.5 W. It uses 3 meter rod type antenna, 20 meter wire antenna or 44 meter bipolar antenna (I only have the 3 meter antenna).

Comparing to 10W SSB’s three power switches, BWT-133 has only one power switch built into the volume control. Comparing to Type 81, operation is much simpler, but not as simple as a modern transceiver. The receiving part is very simple, one just needs to set the frequency, turn on the receiver, and that is it. To transmit, you need first set the frequency using the six frequency setting knobs, then turn the mode switch to Adjustment and antenna adjustment dials (two) until the output power reach it peak, as indicated in the small meter on left side of the control panel. After that, you could turn to oen of the voice modes (high output SSB, low output SSB or AM) or CW mode and begin communication. The tricky part is that you need to adjust two antenna adjustment dials (rough and fine).

My sample is an early LSB device in near NOS condition. I got the radio in 2009 but all the accessories in much early time. My sample was made in 1993 with serial number of 930497. It is made by Fen Huo Wireless Manufactory (Works No. 769) in Baoji, Shanxi.
When I first turned my set on, there is no output, nil. I opened it up and saw nothing wrong and put them together again. Then it started to work fine. No idea what was going on with this baby.

10 Watt Frequency Syntheses SSB (TBR-130)

2009-12-07T22:26:00.011-05:00

The development of third generation short ware transceivers was started in mid 70s, even before Type 81 Compact C was certified. The third generation transceiver targeted for frequency syntheses, IC chip based SSB. However, the development mat its difficulty in late 70’s since manufactory could not develop a reliable frequency syntheses device. A stop gap transceiver was introduced, crystal controlled version of 10W SSB transceiver, in late 70s. Finally, in mid 80, reliable frequency syntheses device was produced and 10W frequency syntheses SSB transceiver was sent to troop and saw later stage of Sino-Vietnam border conflict (from 1979 to late 80s).

The 10 Watt Frequency Syntheses SSB transceiver is designed to replace Silicon 2 Watt and in some cases 81 Compact transceivers in infantry units, ans formal code name was given as TBR-130 in mid 90s when new military equipment naming convention was introduced. The circuit of this device is designed for 50W output power but regulated to 10W to achieve high liability in battlefield condition. It was the major communication device in PLA Battalion-Regiment level units in 90s. Staring from 2001, it has been replaced by TBR-133 5W frequency agile SSB device.

Although it has a former code name of TBR-130 and an industry code name of XD-D2A, it seems that people still call it Ten Watt Frequency Syntheses SSB, even manufactory uses this name on the name plate on the transceiver. This device covers 1.600 to 5.999 Mhz with 4400 possible channels controlled by four knobs. The radio itself weights 5 kg and the system (including antenna, headset, carrying harness and battery) weights 9.8 kg, and the radio measures 355x275x115mm.

It is powered by 25 V/2 A DC power. The power source could be 20 1.2V rechargeable batteries, hand-crank 24 V DC power generator, or Y241 220V AC/12V DC power regulator. The output power of this 10W SSB is 10W for voice mode and 8 W for CW mode. It is a USB only device. It could use 1.5 meter antenna (with a five star radiator and a configurable inductance coil), 2.4 meter rod type antenna, 15 meter wire antenna or 44 meter bipolar antenna. It has a communication distance of 10 to 20 km using 1.5 or 2.4 meter antenna, and around 150 km using 15 meter wire antenna and 300 km using 44 meter bipolar antenna.

This 10W SSB has three power switches. One built into the left side of the battery box as the main power switch, one for receiver built into the volume control, and finally one for transmitting built into the mode selector. Comparing to 81 Compact, operation is much simpler, but not as simple as a modern transceiver. The receiving part is very simple, one just needs to set the frequency, turn on the receiver, and that is it. The antenna tuning for transmit is simple and unique but some time confusing. You need first set the frequency using the four frequency setting knobs, then turn the antenna adjustment dial to the frequency you just set, then, turn on the transmitter and set it in adjustment mode, turn the inductance adjustment knob until the output power reach it peak, as indicated in the small meter on left side of the control panel. After that, you could turn to either voice mode or CW mode and begin communication. The tricky part is that you need to set the capacitor in the final power amplifier stag manually by turning an adjustment knob.

I got my 10W as NOS, came in a wooden box weight 8 kg itself (it is still left in Beijing), and an aluminum carrying case. It came with radio itself, carry harness, three antennas (1.5 meter one, 2.4 meter one and 15 meter one), manual, grounding wire, telegraph key, headset and a plastic box with full set of transistors and IC chips. My sample was made in 1998. It seems it is from one of the last batches of production and kept in PLA storage until I got it. Never be issued to the troop.

When I first turned my set on, the voice level was very low and lot of noise while turning the volume control knob. Nothing could be received. After I turned the volume control up and down for a while, the voice level jumped to very high and it starts to receive signal. I believe it was due to the fact that this baby had been in storage for too long. The transmitting part works as a charm after the receiving part started working. My only complain is that the voice level seems too high (to me) although I set the volume pretty low.

7011 (TBR-111) VHF Transceiver

2009-11-07T16:39:00.004-05:00

This 7011 transceiver was developed in late 70s, as part of 7010 series. It is designed to equip PLA infantry reconnaissance units. The series has three machines: 7011 VHF transceiver, 7012 direction-finding receiver, and 7013 subcompact transceiver. It saw intensive action during Sino-Vietnam border conflict in 80s. It retired from PLA unit in late 90s shortly after it received its new code name of TBR-111.

7011 is a VHH FM transceiver with 8 fixed channels (Channel 1, 40.140 MHz; 2, 40.275; 3, 40.500; 4, 40.770; 5, 41.085; 6, 41.229; 7, 41.388; 8, 41.709 MHz). It is an odd frequency arrangement; since it makes it is not compatible with most of other VHF radios in PLA at that time (other than 705 radio which covers 36.0 – 46.1 MHz). Unlike other VHF radio in PLA, this one could transmit and receiver in different channels. It also has a coded transmitting mode which could transmit a coded signal (three different codes selectable) so that a 7012 receiver could find the direction of the signal resource.

Like 884 radio, this 7011 also do not have a volume control, not even a high-low control found in 861 radio. The headset is the same one for 81 Compact transceiver, the 1.5 meter antenna is the same one as that of 884 radio. It is powered by 10 12V NiCad rechargeable C size batteries (GNY-0.8), makes it 12 V total. With 1:3 transmitting/receiving ratio, radio could work 4 hours using GNY-0.8 batteries. The output power is about 1W. With a 1.5 meter antenna, the normal range is about 4.5 Km.

The radio itself weight 1.5kg without batteries and measure 190x120x72mm. My sample was made in 1979 by No.8301 Factory with a serial number of 79144.

TBR-115 Compact VHF transceiver

2009-10-30T13:00:00.012-04:00

TBR-115 Compact VHF transceiver is a result of Sino-American technology transfer taken place in early 80s during so-called “Honeymoon” period. It is modeled after American AN/PRC-139 and is designed to equip battalion-company- platoon level commanding personal in infantry, artillery, airborne and marine units, replacing 861(A), 862(A), 823, 7011 transceivers and other similar radios. It also could communicate with 861, 823, 884, 7011 and other transceiver working within its frequency range. With the technology transfer, design work was started in mid 80s and the machine was certified in early 90s, likely in 1992. It is still current PLA equipment as of 2008. However, TBR-115 is starting to phase out of PLA front line units.

This radio transceiver is designed to be carried by infantry battalion-company- platoons level commanding personals without need of a radio operator. It is light weighted, only about 1.9 kg with antenna, battery and headset. It is measured 240x78x32 mm. It works within 40.000 to 59.975 MHz with 800 possible channels (25KHz between channels). It is controlled by a microprocessor with frequency syntheses and 10 programmed channels. It is the first Chinese field infantry transceiver with a microprocessor. The microprocessor and other IC chips are imported from Motorola and Phillips. An all domestic components version was introduced later as TBR-116. TBR 115 and 116 have exactly the same externals but with redesigned circuit based on domestic produced microprocessor and other IC chips.

The radio’s power output has two levels. High output level is no less than 1W, and low output level is about 0.2W. It uses a 1.3 meter rod type antenna. The earphone and microphone are built into one unit and connect to a small PPT control box and then connect to the radio body. The 115 has a five-level volume control. The lowest level is a whisper level, at this voice level, the sensitivity of microphone is also increased. The highest voice level also turns the squelch off. There are two control knobs on the top of the radio and a LCD screen on its side. Using these two knobs together with the PPT switch, you can program the ten stored channels from 800 possible channels; switch between high and low output power. There is also a scanning feature that scanning within the ten programmed channels. The LCD screen could be lighted for night time operation.

The radio is powered by a 12V NiCad or NiMH rechargeable battery pack. An automatic battery charger is supplied with radio. When the battery power is dropped beyond operational voltage, there is an audio beep and LCD flashes to remind operator to change the battery pack. The radio operation temperature range is from -25 C to +55 C. It could be submerged into water (1 meter deep) for 2 hours; withstand 20 g impact and it MTBF is 1000 hours. I have two samples of 115, both were made in 1998.

The feedback from troop about this radio is very positive. The added squelch feature makes long time operation not a tiring business anymore. The only issue is that the 1.3 meter long antenna is too long comparing to that of 861. You could usually see 115 is carried with the antenna folded in half.

TBR-142 (I) Artillery VHF transceiver

2009-10-29T21:29:00.006-04:00

The information about this TBR-142 (I) is very limited. Here is what I got from the net: TBR-142 artillery communication system contains three major devices, TBR-142(I) VHF transceiver, TBR-142(II) control device and TBR-142(IIID) multi-function field telephone. It is designed to equip the artillery front line observation post, individual artillery squad. It could achieve voice or date communicate wired or wireless between command center, observation posts and artillery units within 20Km.

TBR-142(II) has a telephone built in, using together with TBR-142(I) radio, it could achieve the communication wired or wireless and switch between these two modes automatically. Please keep in mind that wired communication is still the primary communication method for PLA artillery units.

The TBR-142 (I) works within 40.000 to 59.975MHz with output power of 1 Watt or 0.3 Watt selectable. It is powered by a 12 V DC battery or external 12V DC power source. It measures 220x130x57, and weight about 1.2 kg without battery. It has a three level voice volume control with squelch mode. It is stated that it uses a 1 meter antenna; however, I could not find one. I use the 1.3 meter rod type antenna borrowed from my TBR-115 set. The headset is the same one as that for BWT-133 and TBR-120 radios.

TBR-142 has two versions. My sample is a later version one with a serial number of 990203, which means it was made in 1999. The only difference I could tell between early and late versions is how the frequency is set. The early version use 4 set of buttons (2 buttons for each set, one for increasing the other one to for decreasing the number) to set frequency, its reading in a small window. The later version, as you could see, is controlled by four knobs. So far, I know only three occasions that TBR-142 became available. From this, I assume that it is still in active service with PLA artillery units.

708B VHF FM backpack transceiver

2008-11-02T20:13:00.002-05:00

7 series VHF FM backpacks were developed in late 60s to replace the heavy A series VHF FM backpacks. They are second generation VHF backpack radios developed 100% by China. They use all silicon transistors and much lighter and smaller than A series, and use much less power. However basic functionalities remain the same as A series. It has four radios, 705, 708, 709 and 714. They are basiclly the same radios but cover different frequency ranges (705 covers 36.0 – 46.1 MHz, 708 covers 28.0 – 36.6 MHz, 709 covers 21.5 – 28.5 MHz and 714 covers 20.0 – 26.0 MHz). Development started in late 60s; production started in early 70s. They were certified by military in 1973. Improved A, B and C versions were introduced later in mid 70s.

Unlike that of in USSR, the 7 series are mainly used by artillery units and infantry units who are responsible in coordinating with artillery units within PLA. 705 is for communication between artillery and infantry units, 708and 709 are for artillery commutation network of battalion and company level units and 714 is for communication between artillery and armored units.

My sample is a 708B made in 1978, which is a direct replacement for A211B. 708B covers 28.0 – 36.6 MHz in one single band. It has both voice and CW modes; however, voice is its primary mode. It has a simple telegraph key built on top of the radio. The output power is 1.5 Watt. It could use 1.5 meter fish bone whip antenna, 2.7 meters whip antenna (1.5 meter one plus 1.2 meter extension) and 40 meter directional antenna. In voice mode, with 1.5 meter antenna, the range is no less than 6 km; with 2.7 meter antenna, the range should be greter than 12 km; with 40 meter directional antenna, the range is about 15 to 25 km. In CW mode, the range could be extended around 10% accordingly.

708B weights 7 kg (without batteries and 10kg with two 12V unit batteries) with a dimension of 305x120x320 mm. Upper part is the radio body with a battery box attached to the bottom of the radio permanently. Two 12V unit batteries are used; or 20 D size batteries in place of the two unit batteries. Like Silicon 2 Watt, the radio power switch is on one side of the battery box.

Other than normal transceiver functionalities, this radio would also be used as a repeater. You need two radios to complete a repeater. These two radios connected together using a telephone line, and these two radios need to work on different frequencies, one for receiving, the other one for retransmitting. The radio also could be controlled by a field telephone up to 2 km away. These features are crucial to create an artillery wireless communication network. However, artillery wireless network is secondary to wired artillery communication network in PLA battle order before 90s.

My 708B is a NOS unit with full range of accessories. However, when I tried to test it the first time, this one was not working 100%. The receiving was fine without issue, the transmitting was an issue, it could transmit in CW mode, however, in voice mode, no voice could be transmitted. Luckily, the manual’s troubleshooting session gave me a clue. One of the transistors turned out to be bad. After it was replaced, the radio is functional 100%. Wow!

Type Eight One Compact Division-Regiment Level Short Wave transceiver

2008-10-30T11:03:00.000-04:00

In early 60s, due to the development of transistor technology, the request to make the Type Eight One transceiver smaller and lighter could be materialized. The development of Type Eight One Compact was started in early 60’s. In 1966, the new radio started to appear in PLA for trial use. Its size and weight were only half of that of Type Eight One. In late 60s, the Type Eight One Compact is certified. It is one of the Chinese second generation military wireless communication devices. It is 100% designed and made in China. It equipped division and regiment level infantry unit.

The feedback from the troop was mixed. Troops welcomed this much smaller and lighter radio; however, this radio faced a list of technical problems. On top of the list was that the transistor in transmitting amplifier stag was very easy to get fried. To solve this long list of issues, manufactory had been working on improved versions for 10 years. In early 70s, The Type Eight One Compact (A) is certified. The amplifier transistor issue was still exists. Starting from March 1972, a campaign was launched included a number of manufactories and research institutes, this problem was finally resolved after 6 months of intensive R&D. Then Eight One Compact (B) was certified in May 1973. The B version is the mostly produced version in Eight One Compact series, and most of the issues are basically resolved, but not completely.

In mid of 70s, the Type Eight One Compact (C) was certified. This is the last version and most successful version. It won a national award in 1978. However, in late 70s, the analog AM transceiver saw its end. It soon would be replaced by IC chip based third generation SSB transceiver. My sample is a C model, it was made in 1977.

Type Eight One Compact is a short ware AM transceiver covers 1.6 to 12 MHz in three bands (1.6-3.0, 3.0-6.0 and 6.0-12.0 MHz). Like the early production Type Eight One transceiver, it has transmitter and receiver built into one aluminum enclosure. A battery box is attached to the bottom of this enclosure. The transmitter and receiver power up separately and could work independently. The receiver is based on 139A/B receiver. The Type Eight One and mod A are based on 139A, and B and C versions are based on 139B receiver. The transistor for transmitting amplifier stag is built into the control panel. There are two in C version; one is an extra in case the one in use is fried. You can easily replace it without opening up the radio.

Type Eight One Compact is a 15W transmitter in high power CW mode and 3 to 10W in low power CW mode; it has 4.5W power in voice mode. It weight 12 kg with battery, telegraph key, headset and 1.5 meter antenna. The dimension is 390 X 280 X 115 mm. It could use 1.5 meter rod type antenna with a five star radiator and a configurable inductance coil to increate its effective height (this antenna is the same as that of the Silicon 2 W, however, a newer rod type antenna was introduced with Mod C, it does not has the five star radiator and the inductance coil and it is easier to setup), 20-meter wire antenna or 44-meter dipole antenna. The radio is powered by a 24V Ni-Cd rechargeable battery, which is built by 20 C type cells in an aluminum enclosure attached to the bottom of the radio. With this battery, the radio could work for 6 hours with 3:1 receiving/transmitting ratio. It could also powered by 24V external power source including 24V hand crank generator.

Operation of the receiver is straight forward; it is similar to that of the tube 139 receiver. An antenna tuning knob is added. Other than that, operation is same as that of tube 139. There is a little catch; there are two power switches, one on the receiver panel, the other one on the microphone handhold with the headset. When you use the headset, you have to turn on both the switches. Why is that? It is because that instead of standard headset, you also could use an earphone set connect to the receiver panel. In this case, the switch on the receiver panel makes sense. However, the sound from this receiver is pretty hush comparing to that of tube 139.

Operation of the transmitter is much simplified comparing to that of the tube Type Eight One, however, to tune the transmitting amplifier/antenna, you still have three knobs to turn. Training is needed before you can play with this baby.

Silicon Two Watt Short Wave Transceiver

2008-10-12T21:42:00.001-04:00

The Chinese military Silicon Two Watt radio was developed by Nanjing Wireless manufactory in 1969 to replace the very heavy Type 71 Regiment-Battalion Level HF tube radio. In early 1970, the production of Silicon 2 W had spread to 14 manufactories nation wide. It was finally certified by military in May 1973 as Type 73 Regiment-Battalion Level Short Wave transceiver. Its common name is Silicon Two Watt since it is first field radio to use all silicon transistors from the beginning. Interestingly, the radio name tag uses its common name instead of its former military name. The manufactory name is Comm 251. In mid 70s, the second version is introduced as Type 73B or Silicon 2 Watt II or Comm 251A. The production decreased from 1976 and it was finally replaced by Ten Watt Frequency Synthesised SSB transceiver in early 80s.

Silicon Two Watt is an all silicon transistors backpack short ware transceiver. It has two operation modes, Voice and CW. Unlike Type 81 Compact, the voice mode is its primary operation mode. It covers 1.7 to 6.0 MHz in two bands (1.7-3.2 and 3.2-6.0 MHz). Every 0.2 MHz, there is a crystal controlled alignment point to align the radio frequency. The transmitting power is 2 W in CW mode and 1 W in voice mode. Range is about 10 KM in day time and 5 KM in night time using 1.5 meter antenna in normal battle field condition.

The radio weights 8.5 kg with batteries, 1.5 meter antenna and headset. It measures 230 x 110 x 345 mm. It is powered by two 12 V unit batteries, plus one 1.5V D size battery cell for panel light. The battery box is in the bottom portion of the radio and it has its own access hatch. With 3:1 transmitting/receiving ratio, it could work for 30 hours with two unit batteries. It mainly uses 1.5 meter antenna (with a configurable inductance coil to increate its effective height and a five star radiator). It could also use 15 meter wire antenna and 44-meter dipole antenna, plus a 3-meter wire antenna for receiver to improve the receiving effectiveness.

The receiving and transmitting frequencies are set separately, so that radio could work on the same frequency for transmitting/receiving, or it could work on different frequencies. The transmitting/receiving switching is controlled by a PTT switch built into handhold microphone, or by telegraph key, which in turn controls a relay to control transmitting/receiving circuit. Frequency knob has two rings, outer/bottom one has 1:1 turn ratio, the center/tip one has 40:1 turn ratio for fine tune.

On the control panel, controls and display at the left side are for receiving and that of right side are for transmitting. The radio power switch is on left side of radio battery box so that the operator still has basic control of the radio when it is in the move and the control panel lid is closed.

The transmitting is not straight forward comparing to a modern transceiver. The antenna/transmitting power amplifier has to be tuned before transmitting, or facing the risk of getting the amplifier transistor fried. The tune is achieved by adjusting inductor and capacitor knobs to the first highest transmitting current indicated by the meter at the upper left side of the control panel. Little skill is needed here.

The radio is well built for military field usage. Every control knob is water tight. The radio is fully operational in rain/snow condition. When the control panel lid is closed, the radio can flow cross a river without further water tightening measure. Its operation environment temperature is from -40 to +50 degree Celsius.

My sample was an early version made in 1975 with a serial number of 751600. It has a mark, 9th squadron, on the carrying case. It was very likely belong to a communication unit in Regiment HQ.

Unlike its bigger brother, Type 81 Compact, Silicon Two Watt was a successful story from the beginning. The feedback from troop was very positive. It is approved by that there is only one improved version introduced during its more than ten years service life in PLA. It was widely used in Sino-Vietnam conflict happened in early 1979. It was usually equipped down to company level during that conflict. Interestingly, Vietnam troop also used Silicon Two Watt supplied to them by China in early and mid 70s. Brothers and Comrades up to 1977, Enemy and Foe in 1978, full scale armed conflict in February 1979, what a crazy world!

Type 139 Short Wave Field Portable Receiver

2008-10-05T21:44:00.000-04:00

Type 139 receiver started its life inside Type Eight One transceiver as the receiver portion of the transceiver. The Type Eight One was developed in early 50s and saw action in later part of Korea War. The criticism received from the troops was that the transceiver was too heavy to be carried by one foot soldier. A transceiver set was then developed with separated transmitter and receiver. This receiver is the Type 139 short ware receiver. It is stand alone receiver; and it could also be used as the receiver in Type Eight One transceiver set. This Type 139 receiver is the first generation field portable military receiver developed by China in 50s. It is in production until early 70s although transistor receiver 139A/B, 239 and 339 were all in production at that time.

This 139 receiver is a 7-tube superheterodyne short wave receiver covering 2 to 12 Mhz in three bands (2-3.8 MHz, 3.8-7 MHz and 7 to 12 Mhz). Every tube is protected by a tube shield. All circuit broad is coated with a layer of protective coating. After almost 40 years, it is still shining like new. It is powered by a 1.5V/90V Type Special 81 unit battery in its battery box or by an external 1.5/90V power source. It guaranteed a working condition with no less than 1.2/65 V power source. It still can works with decreased sensitivity when the battery power drops to 1.1/55 V.

In an operation point of view, 139 is a very simple receiver. The only things you can control are frequency, band switch, sound volume, mode (Off, CW, Voice and Voice with automatic volume control), and tune for CW mode. I find that Voice with automatic volume control works the best; it maintains the voice level to a pretty constant level. The frequency reading window is very small. There is a reading light inside you can turn on to help you reading the numbers. You need it even in day light.

I brought my 139 as part of my Type Eight One transceiver set. It was NOS, came as boxes sealed with wax with full range of accessories: carry harness and an accessory bag, full set of extra tubes, other parts like wire antenna, light bulbs, fuses, repairing tools and operation/technical manual, plus a multimeter made in 1968. My sample is made in 1973 with a serial number of 730177, which mean it is the 177th machine in 1973. The operation manual has its serial number matching that of the machine. It also has stamps from the QA, Production manger, and military representative with their real names. It is not the practice nowadays (numbered stamps replace real name stamps).

It is my first tube equipment and I heard many terrible stories about bad caps in old tube radios. I dear not do any since I don’t know much about tube radios. After almost two years, I finally get a custom made = power source (as the external power source in place of the unit battery) and some basic knowledge. I hooked up power source, a wire antenna, grounded wire and head set, turned the power mod switch on battery box to external source. I then turned the radio mod switch away from off. What I expected was that the radio needed several minutes to warm up, however, sound come off the headset immediately after I turned the switch away from off. When I switch the knob to Voice, sound of a station came out right away.

There is no other adjustment knob other than frequency turning knob, band switch, and a volume control. An antenna adjustment would be nice, and it was added in the next improved version, 139A.

This heavy tube receiver is also well thought about mobile. The power mode switch on the battery box could also be used as the power switch when using battery. There is also an ear phone outlet on the battery box, plus a small outlet at the radio cover which a wire antenna could be extend outside of radio when the radio is closed by the cover. Then it is operational while it is on the move.

The sound is very medley, very comfort. The selection is pretty good compared to my 239 and 339. It is very quiet when no station is selected. The night when I first made it working, I lessened to the Chinese World Broadcasting all night until the program ended, it was a wonderful time. After so many years, it still looks like new and works like new. Who said Chinese made goods were low quality? At least not this one.

Type 861 Infantry Company-Platoon Level Compact Transceiver

2008-10-03T09:53:00.000-04:00

The Chinese military radio Type 861 Company-Platoon Level Transceiver was very popular in China in the 80s. It was widely used during Sino-Vietnam border conflict starting from 1984 to 1989. They were equipped down to squadron level and equipping the squadron leaders. The development of Type 861 transceiver is first started in 1968; however, the development was suspended in 1971 due to economic/political reason. The development was resumed in 1973. The 861 transceiver was certified in 1979. An improved version 861A was introduced later with two addition channels.

This infantry radio transceiver is designed to be carried by infantry company/platoon commanders without the need of a radio operator. It is light weighted, only about 1.9 kg with antenna, battery and headset. It is measured 197x148x57 mm. It has 9 channels (49.3, 49.4, 49.5, 49.5, 49.6, 49.7, 49.8, 49.9, 50.0 and 50.1 MHz) controlled by nine crystals. The improved version has two additional channels, Channel A and B (49.1 and 49.2 MHz accordingly). It requires no search and no fine tune, so it could be operated by anyone with minimum training. It is a great improvement comparing to the one continuous band used in 884 transceivers at that time, and it also use early generation of IC chips. The only operable switch/knob on the radio’s body is the channel switch.

The radio’s power output is about 0.3W. Using 0.48 meter whip antenna, it has a range of no less than 1 Km in a normal flat battle field condition. It also could use a 10.5 meter wire antenna to improve its range. The earphone and microphone are built into a hat and connect to a small power switch/control box and then connect to the radio body. The 861 does not have a volume control knob on its body, a simple high/low two-level volume control switch is built into the headset control box. The 861 also has a simple telegraph key on top of the radio body for operating in CW mode with improved range.

The radio is powered by a 15V Type 861 alkaline unit battery. With a 1:3 transmitting/receive ratio, the unit battery could last 8 hours. A battery holder, which holding 10 AA size batteries, is also supplied in case that unit battery is not available. My sample of 861 was made in 1980, a very early production sample with a manufactory serial number of A801209; and that of 861A was made in 1991 with manufactory serial number of A910929, a very late production sample.

The only issue of this 861 radio is that it lacks squelch mode. It makes the operation of this radio not only a very tiring business but also decreasing environment awareness for the operator. The 861 infantry radio is being phased out of PLA active service in early 90s replaced by TBR115.

Early Gunner’s Radio

2008-06-25T04:49:00.000-04:00

This Chinese military radio is the result of the great pressure from the north, especially the armor force of USSR. The only thing that China could bring up to against this, at that time, is the anti-tank gun force. To better coordinate the anti-tank guns in the field, China needs better communication equipments other than field telephones. There came the requirement for a battlefield gunner’s transceiver.

The requested transceiver has to be light weighted enough to be carried by gunner and easy enough to operate without a dedicated radio operator. The former requirement is given in 1968 and the new radio is created by Wuhan Wireless Manufactory and sent to military for trial operation in 1971. However, the project is canceled due to economic reason in 1971, leaving a number of trial machines in military warehouse.

This gunner’s radio transceiver is designed to be carried by artillery gunners, especially the anti-tank gunners. It is light weighted, only about 800 g and measured 170x135x55 mm. It has six channels (34.25, 34.35, 34.45, 34.55, 34.65 and 34.75 MHz) controlled by six crystals. It requires no search and no fine tune, so it could be operated by anyone with minimum training. It is a great improvement comparing to the one continuous band used in A211 and 708 radio transceivers. The only operable switches/knobs are the channel switch and a squelch threshold adjustment knob.

The radio uses a 1.5 meter fishbone whip antenna, an external antenna, connecting to the radio’s external antenna outlet, could also be used in place of the 1.5 meter whip antenna. The earphone and microphone are built into a hat and connect to a small power switch control box and then connect to the radio body. This type of configuration is adopted by later 861 radios. An interesting point is that the microphone is in front of operator’s forehead.

The radio is powered by a 15V mercury oxide-zinc unit battery. This is a toxic non-rechargeable battery used mainly by military for portable device in 40’s and 50’s, it has phased out of market nowadays. Since the mercury battery could not operate properly in low temperature at that time, an external battery box using zinc-carbon dry cells is supplied. The radio output power is about 0.3W. The stated range is 2.5 km in a flat field. My sample is made in January 1971 with a manufactory serial number of 000387.

Type 7512 HF receiver

2007-11-28T11:23:00.000-05:00

This baby is heavy (80 lbs), I had to take a rest when I brought it upstairs. I got this Chinese military radio receiver in NOS condition. The radio was a direct copy of Soviet design with minor modifications and was first made in 1950 with imported tubes and was supplied to Chinese troops fighting United Nations force in Korea War. Later, it was also supplied to Vietcom in Vietnam War. It should be replaced by Type 222 receiver in early 60s, however, my example was manufactured in 1974, long after the introduction of much superior Type 222 receiver.

The 7512 receiver is 12 tubes shortware receiver cover 1.5 to 25 MHz in 5 bands. It is for use in relatively fixed station. Every tube is protected by either tube shields or tube clamps. It weights 36 Kg with dimension of 520 x 320 x 370mm. It could by powered by 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 190, 200, 210, 220 or 230 V AC consuming 90W of power. It has three types of outputs, two 4000 ohms outlets for earphones, one 600 ohms outlet for speaker in distance and 3.2 ohms outlet for local speaker. It resembles a commercial receiver in 1940s with much reinforced construction. It has an access hatch on the top, which makes replacing tubes an easy task.

I got this baby in NOS condition and it is a C type, the third production version. It came in wooden crate with manufactory sealed plastic bag. A range of accessories are included, a complete set of 12 extra tubes, 22-meter long wire antenna, a technical manual and a user manual, two sets of 4000 Ohms earphones. The serial number is 741348, and the certificate indicates this item was come out of manufactory in June 1974, and it was made in Shanghai Third Wireless Manufactory.

I anxiously opened the sealed plastic bag expecting a rusting metal box waiting inside, since 7512 has a steel construction instead of aluminum construction in later designs. What a surprise, the 7512 was so new, it is looked like it was made in 2004 not 1974 some 30 years ago. All the metal surfaces are still shinning like new. Paint is also new without any defect. All the control knobs and switches could be operated smoothly.

To restore the aged capacitors, I gradually powered it up. The rectifier tube went off during this process, and my heart went south at that moment. Luckily, it lighted up again after I firmly pushed it down to its socket. Sound immediately came out of the earphones after, what a wonderful moment. The sound is beautiful. The sound of my 239 seems little too harsh comparing to this big baby. The selection and sensitivity are on par with that of the 239 receiver. I listen to CRI regularly with this baby. I like to conclude this blog entry with a ham’s words about this baby, “It just like a large bear sitting beside me, breathing warm air to me and working hard for me.”

884 VHF FM backpack

2007-11-27T12:56:00.000-05:00

This Chinese military portable radio’s full name is “Type 884 VHF FM Battalion-Company level transceiver” designed for communication between battalion HQ and its companies. Its predecessor is 883 (Type 62) “Battalion-Company level VHF FM transceiver”, developed in early 60’s. The 883 radio has a mixture design of transistors and vacuum tubes. In late 60’s, a requirement is given to industry to develop a full solid state Battalion-Company level VHF FM transceiver. This newly development radio was the 884 radio, and it is the first full solid state radio China developed in its class. It got its certificate from military in early 1972. 884 radios were supplied to Vietcom in large quantity in early 70’s even before that of Chinese army. They were widely used by both sides of 1979 border conflict between Vietnam and China, and retired in mid 80’s.

The 884 radio operates within 45-50 MHz in a single continues band. It could have 51 channels if the spacing between channels is 100 KHz. It has two modes of operation: FM and CW. The radio itself measures 260 x 220 x 90mm, weight 5.5Kg with batteries. It uses 1.5 meter whip-antenna, operates with 11.5 – 18 V DC and output power is 0.75W. With 1.5 meter antenna, operation distance is 2.5 Km for voice and 5 Km for telegraph under normal battle field condition.

This 884 portable radio is my first military transceiver. It comes in a factory sealed plastic bag. It also comes with 2 pieces of 1.5 meter whip antennas, one wire antenna of 10.5 meters, 2 sets of head sets, radio backpack and accessories carrying bag and some accessories. It was built in 1972 with serial number of 721880, which indicates it is an early production item.

All of the controls, connectors and display are on the top of the radio. It is analogue tuning and display with a tuner lock. The main switch on the left has four positions: Calibration, Voice with AFC and Voice without AFC and Telegraphy. There is also a simple telegraph key on the right. There is no power switch on the radio body itself. There is also no volume control on this radio.

The 1.5 meter whip antenna is called fish-bone antenna. It could be folded for easy carrying. It also has three-section extender on the tip.

Headset and hand-hold microphone is built into one set and the radio power switch is built into the microphone hand hold. This enable operator to turn on and off the radio without reach back to the radio body.

Normally, the radio is powered by a single 13V battery plus 4 D dry cell batteries. It also could be power by 13 D batteries. Battery holders for D batteries are included in the accessories. 884 uses one 13V battery plus one D battery to operate normally. Another one D battery is for the dial light. Two more D batteries are for emergency usage. On top of the radio, there is a power switch between normal and emergency. When battery voltage drops beyond normal operation requirement, power switch could be tuned to emergency which adds the two backup D cells into the circuit. This could put the radio in operation again for a short time.

884 radio comes with a range of accessories. Other than an extra antenna and an extra headset, it come with one 10.5 meter wire antenna, 1 screw driver, 1 brush, a extra dial lamp, 1 rubber cover for the telegraph key, a replacement PPT relay, two pieces of ground wire and user manual.

Operation of this radio is straight forward. The sound level is comfortable although lacking a volume control. AFC function works very well. I don’t even need to fine tune the dial. Selection and sensitivity is good to me.

My Wish List

2007-11-27T11:24:00.005-05:00

This list shows my Chinese military radio collection wish list. It will be updated as new wish coming up or a wish tuned into collection.

Type 56 first class HF receiver (NOS package weights 200Kg, how to ship it from China?)
222-1 HF receiver (it is said to be on par with R390)
BWT-119/TBR-120 FM transceiver (current PLA equipment) coming
NOS 339 HF receiver
Type 71 transceiver
883 transceiver
239 receiver, not 239-1

My Collection List

2007-11-27T11:14:00.031-05:00

This list shows my Chinese military radio collections ordered by received date. This list will be updated as new collections coming in.

884 VHF FM transceiver (8/2006)
Type Eight One SW transmitter (9/2006)
139 HF receiver (9/2006)
Later production 884 (10/2006)
708B VHF FM transceiver (11/2006)
Silicon 2W SW transceiver (11/2006)
823 paratroop direction finding VHF transceiver (12/2006)
862A artillery command VHF transceiver (12/2006)
Type 81 Compact 15W SW transceiver (01/2007)
Type 65 hand crank power generator (2/2007)
339 HF receiver (7/2007)
SEM52A VHF transceiver/German (10/2007)
7512 HF receiver (10/2007)
TBR-115 VHF transceiver (10/2007)
861A VHF transceiver (10/2007)
116 150W SW transmitter (11/2007)
239-1 HF receiver (11/2007)
Two 862 artillery command VHF transceivers (12/2007)
TBR142 VHF transceiver (4/2008)
TBR001 Squad Leader VHF transceiver (5/2008)
TBR001A Squad Leader VHF transceiver (5/2008)
TBR-115 VHF transceiver (second, 5/2008)
861 VHF transceiver(6/2008)
2nd 823 paratroop direction finding VHF transceiver (6/2008)
Artillery command transceivers early (6/2008)
A211B VHF transceiver (6/2008)
PRC-6 (10/2008)
10 W crystal controlled SSB transceiver (11/2008)
PRC-10 (11/2008)
7011 VHF transceiver (11/2008)
10 W Synthesised SSB transceiver (12/2008)
139A HF receiver (10/2009)
826 VHF receiver (10/2009)
702D VHF transceiver (10/2009)
BWT133 SSB transceiver (11/2009)
TBR120A VHF Transceiver (7/2011)
7013 VHF Transceiver (7/2011)
Type 77 Shortwave Receiver (Coming ...)

My Wish List