Hackaday · Creativity & design

PCL86 Tube Transceiver Project

A PCL86 vacuum tube, commonly found in 1960s European televisions, has been repurposed by Helge Fykse into a functional transceiver. This project highlights an alternative use for readily available electronic components.

The PCL86 is a dual-function tube containing a small-signal triode and a power pentode, typically used as an audio amplifier. Its 'P' designation indicates a 300 mA heater, allowing for series connection of multiple tubes in a device.

In this transceiver design, the tube operates as a crystal oscillator and power amplifier during transmission. For receiving, a switch reconfigures the circuit, utilizing the triode as an oscillator and mixer, and the pentode as an audio amplifier.

The project offers a contrast to modern surface-mount electronics. While the potential for unintentional radiation in receive mode is considered, it is expected to be minimal.

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