Description
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A signal lamp (sometimes called an Aldis lamp) is a visual signaling device for optical communication, typically using Morse Code. It is a focused lamp which can produce a pulse of light, by opening and closing shutters mounted in front of the lamp, via a manually operated pressure switch. With hand held lamps, a concave mirror is tilted by a trigger to focus the light into pulses. The lamps were usually equipped with some form of optical sight, and were most commonly used on naval vessels and in airport control towers (using color signals for stop or clearance). They provide handy, secure communications during periods of radio silence as well as other times and were particularly useful for convoys operating during the Battle of the Pacific. There were several types. Some signal lamps were mounted on the mastheads of ships, some small hand-held versions were also used (‘The Aldis lamp’) and other more powerful ones were mounted on pedestals. These larger ones used a carbon arc lamp as their light source with a diameter of 20 inches (50 cm). These could be used to signal to the horizon, even in conditions of bright sunlight. Although it was originally thought that it was only possible to communicate by line-of-sight, in practice it was possible to illuminate cloud bases both during the night and day which allowed for communication beyond the horizon. A maximum transmission rate possible by using flashing lights is no more than 14 wpm. They have a secondary function as simple spotlights. Made of bakelite, aluminum, and steel, this piece of equipment is in VERY NICE condition! Some slight scratches and wear due to the age, but still retains 95% of it’s original black crackle paint! The on/off switch and trigger both work 100% correctly, as does the latch (though a bit loose). Also retains it’s original power cord, and Navy marked data plate! The plug is missing one of the prongs, but that could easily be rectfied. The bulb appears to be a replacement. In EXCELLENT overall condition, and 100% mechanically functional (I have not tested it electrically)! Would make a PERFECT item for any collection or display! ——————- PAYMENT —————– Payment should be made within 7 business days at the end of the auction unless buyer contacts me for other arrangements. I accept all forms of payment. ——————- SHIPPING —————– My goal is to ship within 7 days from auction end. However, depending on circumstances, it may take up to an additional 1 week from receipt of confirmed payment. If you need it shipped sooner, please let me know and I will do our best to accommodate. ——————- TERMS OF SALE —————– Most of my items are vintage, and as such are AS-IS, so you must therefore expect a degree of wear due to age and/or usage. I will describe each auction to the best of my knowledge and take as many photos necessary to ensure you are pleased upon receiving your item. All sales are final, so please make sure your questions are answered to your satisfaction before you purchase. ——————- ABOUT ME —————– Although my passion is the Me109, I do offer many other German Aircraft (Fw190, Me262, etc.), as well as USAF and Japanese items. Occasionally I do offer many non-vintage items such as prints and art relating to the time period. As a private collector myself, I am constantly on the lookout for historical memorabilia, authentic photographs, artwork or anything unique relating to military aircraft. ——————- COPYRIGHT —————– All pictures and descriptions used in my auctions under COPYRIGHT and I forbid the use of these photos and information in any manner such as paper or electronic (internet) publications or otherwise. Use is solely based on my authorization only. |
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