SUMMER RADIO

Shannon News, 25 November 1927, Page 4

SUMMER RADIO

Summer time is here once more, anti at this period there are are a number of little jobs that should be carried out by: radio enthusiasts. In the first place, all masts should receive attention. They have "withstood the rail} and gales of -winter, and will require examination, and probably some repair. Perhaps new guys will be found necessary. I may advise the use of solid galvanised wire for new guys, as this typo of wire withstands the weather better than stranded! cable. , . Metal masts should be scaled and brightened under a new coat of paint, for, if not looked after, they soon corrode. A quick-drying paint with an enamel finish is about the best rust-proof covering to use.. With wooden masts slits must be looked for. If noticed in time they should be well filled and painted to prevent water lodging in them, thus rotting the wood. The lead to the earth plate outside should be carefully examined, and, if worn, replaced by a new one. Those who indulge in outdoor sports on summer nights will do well not to neglect their accumulators. It will, save money in the end. In eases where the set will not be used at all the accumulator should be’ fully charged, after the acid should be emptied Out. Leave the accumulator upside down to drain and dry. When again required for use fill with acid to the correct specific gravity and charge in the usual manner. Perhaps you will only want; to use the set now and again—say, only on wCt evenings. , If 'so, take care that-the accumulator is charged every three weeks, whether the set is used or not. To prevent undue evaporation of the liquid accumulators should be placed in cool spots during the very hot days. The above points also apply to h.t. accumulators, although the period before they are charged is lengthened. I may add, however, that frequent charges every three months or so. High tension batteries of the dry type should not be exposed to the sun, but-generally they give better service in the hot weather, for the air is dryer and the damp atmosphere very soon affects the dry battety.