Alexanderson Radio Alternator, circa 1915
Add to SetSummary
This Alexanderson radio alternator rotated to generate a high-frequency alternating current--an essential component to early radio transmission. It was one of the first devices able to generate continuous radio waves, allowing sound to be transmitted by radio. These alternators were used for transoceanic communication during WWI, remaining in use until vacuum tube transmitters replaced them in the 1920s.
This Alexanderson radio alternator rotated to generate a high-frequency alternating current--an essential component to early radio transmission. It was one of the first devices able to generate continuous radio waves, allowing sound to be transmitted by radio. These alternators were used for transoceanic communication during WWI, remaining in use until vacuum tube transmitters replaced them in the 1920s.
Artifact
Generator
Date Made
circa 1915
Creators
Alexanderson, Ernst Fredrik Werner, 1878-1975
Place of Creation
United States, New York, Schenectady
Creator Notes
Made for General Electric Company, designed by Ernst F. W. Alexanderson.
Keywords
Location
Not on exhibit to the public.
Object ID
89.0.415.1
Credit
From the Collections of The Henry Ford.
Material
Iron alloy
Copper alloy
Dimensions
Height: 29 in
Width: 17 in
Length: 28 in
Inscriptions
engraved: 385
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