"N.Z. Radio Times"

Radio Record, Volume V, Issue 43, 6 May 1932, Page 31

"N.Z. Radio Times"

Review of May Issue ,

B think radio enthusiasts will have no complaint to make about the May issue of the "Radio Times.? The reception of the first issue showed us clearly that there was a very large field, and from what little criticism we have received it seemed that more technical matter was wanted. This criticism was not overlooked in the preparation of the May issue, with the result that an excellent paper has been produced, which should appeal to both amateur and advanced constructor. Here are some of the features. A set for those who wish to build a simple battery receiver, utilising triode valves throughout. Oharges have been laid against the modern valves, particularly the pentode, that they are gluttons for current, and also expensive, Bearing this in mind, we have designed the "Neutron Four." Whilst some will say it is out of date, yet we have introduced several new features which should make a very wide appeal. Balancing in these older types of sets has always been difficult, and practice has shown that the split primary method employed in the Hammarlund = Roberts has been the best. We have, therefore, employed this method in this circuit, but have done away with the swinging coil type of regeneraformer, which has proved a little unsatisfactory when homemade differential condenser reaction is used, A further point is the taking of the full voltage to all valves except the detector. The first valve is scientifically decoupled to prevent any instability, and full bias is then put on the three valves. By varying the bias on the r.f. valve, any degree of selectivity can be obtained, and operating the set just a very short distance from 2YA we were able to cut it out within three points. The sensitivity of the set is good Christchurch was brought in at 3 o’clock in the afternoon. We have introduced other novel features in this set and no one interested in construction should miss it. The semi-technical articles include the first of a new series, "The A.B.C. of the New Sets." ‘his series of articles is being prepared by a very competent radio engineer, and they deal in detail with the fundamentals of the a.c. set. There are no highly technical terms, but everything is explained simply. and parallels are drawn with the battery set. The diagrams are clear and explicit. An excellent idea has beén worked out to show those not acquainted with radio what the symbols in a radio set mean. A typical set is drawn, and around it are picture diagrams of the yarious components, with arrows leading to each. An explanatory article tells what each component does and briefly what happens to the signal in each component. This is an article the beginner in radio will find of utmost value. Another semi-technical article’ is "What is New in Radio," the first of a series of accounts of new radio apparatus. This month we deal with the

twin triple valve, and readers should find it of considerable interest. It is complete with a diagram showing how this valve will be used in modern cir- | cuits, "Readers’ Problems" is a new depar--ture which should appeal to all and sundry. It is an enlargement of the "Q. and A." pages.of the "Radio Record." In this publication it is not possible always to deal in detail with the problems raised, so we take the most interesting of our problems into the "Radio Times," there to expound them fully. "The Radio Traders’ Digest," which, in the first issue, was separate, is now fully incorporated in the "Times." This section will be found to be of. interest mainly to the dealer, but there are many points which will interest the general reader. For instance, there is our Service Section, whereby servicemen are invited to send in interesting cases they have met with in servicing. To get this page established we are offering a prize of 10/6 a month for the best case sent in. This month’s problems contain a very interesting point which every enthusiastic reader should find of interest. The general articles include an account of 2ZW, Wellington, an article by our special London representative, on the British Industries Fair, and the opinions of the ‘trade on -British preference. This article is full of fireworks, and contains some most interesting points. The Radio Log. The "Radio Log" section is slightly larger than last and contains a wealth of information, There is an interview with Mr, Keith Thow, the prominent Standard Telephones and Cables engineer, who installed three of the leading "A" class stations in Australia. Mr. Thow tells of the many difficulties which were encountered in erecting them and gives some details concerning the technical equipment installed. There is a complete li.t of N.Z. stations -brought up to date this time-and the usual New and Amended Q.R.A.’s, including the Australian VK’s and N.Z. amateurs. We might remark that this is the last time the N.Z. amateurs will be amended, for as soon as the new lists are available, a complete list will be given. The local secretaries of the DX Club have all contributed ‘notes about their districts, and the result has been quite a new departure in the "Radio Log." Then there is the monthly mail, with _its usual kicks and ha’pence, and a complete list of stations heard in each district during the month. There is also an account of the DX competition, with the revised conditions. Altogether we think listeners will find this menth’s "Radio Log," which comprises 40 pages of interesting reading matter, to their liking. Those who have not seen the "Log,’’ or who were unable to obtain a copy of the first one, should not fail to expend 9d, on the May issue,