Summary

Capacitor for spark suppression of induction coil in a marine emergency spark transmitter. The capacitor is connected across the interupter contacts of the coil to prevent sparking. Made by A. W. A. in Australia circa 1920.
In early days of radio, the item was called a 'coil condenser'.

Use of this device for 'normal' operation was frowned on because an induction coil based transmitter produced a signal, which covered a broad spectrum of frequencies, which would interfere with other communications. However, in emergencies, this broad signal was more likely to be noticed by other ships compared with the cleaner signal of the main transmitter.

Goes with items 021404 to 021423.

Physical Description

Sectioned rectangular varnished box enclosing a flat condenser of approximately 2 microfarads.

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