The Australian WS-128, predecessor of the A-510

[PA0CHS]

History of the Australian Wireless Set No 128



(Text partly from https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/C1216608?image=1)

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Development of the Australian Wireless Set No. 128 started in early 1944 with approval for production given in July 1945. Issue to units was only after the war had ceased. It replaced the Australian No.108 as an High Frequency (HF) manpack set until the introduction of the A510 in 1955, although Very High Frequency (VHF) FM sets such as the AN/PRC-9, -10 and CPRC-26 were introduced in Australia in the early 1950's.
The Wireless Set Australian, No. 108 was Australia's principal manpack set in the early days of the Korean conflict (1950-1953). The physical appearance of the US Signal Corps SCR-300-A (BC-1000) VHF FM was taken as the base for the general design of the Australian Wireless Set No. 128. This approach simplified sealing and placed the centre of gravity close to the body. In order to operate with existing sets and to provide long range sky-wave communication the set operated on CW, MCW and R/T in the frequency range of 2.0 - 4.5MHz either MO or crystal controlled. The RF power output is given as approximately 0.36 watt. Miniature 1.4 volt valves, like 1T4 are used and in its construction miniaturisation was carried out as far as possible. The base of the set housed a 162/3 volt battery, similar to that used with British Wireless Sets No. 18, 46 and 68.
As described above the physical appearance of the WS 128 resembles the BC-1000. See picture of both sets next to each other. The BC-1000 is a French model. Construction details: the case of the BC-1000 is made of steel plate, while the WS 128 case is made of very thin aluminum. Lighter but less stable during operational military conditions.
The antenna rods are the same as used by the WS 18/68. See picture of the backside: the canvas fixations of the WS 128 show that the set could be carried by WW2 standard British webbing.


Links
WS-128 Mk2 https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/C1216608?image=1
Restauration http://www.tuberadio.com/ws128/128.html
A510 https://www.qsl.net/vk2dym/radio/A510.htm