RCA Portable Radios

During the summer of 1983, I assisted in the installation of a GATES 25 KW transmitter at radio station KBHB, Sturgis, S.D.  The transmitter in operation was a 1949 RCA BTA-5F 5KW. The transmitter was purchased by station owner, Les Kleven, when he put KBHB on the air in 1963. KBHB operates on frequency 810 KC.  The old RCA operated on 580 KC. The original sight that this transmitter operated on is not known to me. Pictured is the ID plate which I salvaged from the door of the BTA-5F.

This is the RCA BP 85 (c. 1939) which was used by my grandfather on numerous business trips.

Three power options were available AC, DC and Battery. The battery connections are still intact but radio is currently running on the Light Socket option.

Additionally, when being operated on battery, this radio had Save Battery and Full Power options.

Additionally, when being operated on battery, this radio had Save Battery and Full Power options.

RCA introduced the BP 10 in 1940. It was considered to be the first compact portable which led to the development of the transistor radio a decade-and-a-half later.

This radio has the optional leather carrying case.

This BP 10 has the original compliment of RCA date-coded tubes. The C cell provides filament voltage, and the (still available) 67.5 volt battery provides B+ voltage.

The end handle remains intact.

RCA introduced the 66 BX, otherwise referred to as the GLOBETROTTER in 1946.

Flip the dial cover, up, and the radio turns ON.

The all-aluminum case featured brown-swirl bakelite ends, latches, feet and handle.

Power options were AC/DC and battery. This one has the original line cord which when plugged into the receptacle on the chassis, the power is converted to battery. Both antennas, often missing when acquired by collectors, are with the radio.

The full-compliment of manufacturers data is included with this Globetrotter.

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