Keeping a Crystal Set in Order

Radio Record, Volume II, Issue 22, 14 December 1928, Page 27

Keeping a Crystal Set in Order

‘THERE is very little to go wrong with a crystal set, but, nevertheless, there are a few points about the maintenance of this class of receiver which are worth watching. For instance, the telephones themselves should not be worn for very long periods, and then put away without being wiped gently with a fine cloth, or otherwise moisture may collect in the diaphragms, which will eventually rust the telephones, and probably do a good deal of damage. (Telephones are extremely sensitive instruments, so all wiping, etc., should be very carefully done.) Tt is especially important not to bend the diaphragms of the telephones in any way. Another important point is to keep the whole set free fromdust. This is especially true of the crystal

itself, which should be kept as clean as possible, and not handled with dirty fingers. If sensitive spots become difficult to find, the erystal should be broken in order to get a new surface. The catswhisker itself also should not be neglected, and should be kept sharply pointed, the degree of pressure upon the erystal itself being varied according to the pressure which gives the best results. The most important proviso of all is to keep contacts clean. If the set is kept covered over and free from dust, and the foregoing precautions are taken the set will give continuous satisfactory service.