Bell System Alarm Relay, circa 1965

01

Artifact Overview

Connected to a telephone, this signal relay could extend typical ringtones. It amplified the volume of ringing, and distinctive tones could be created for incoming calls: chimes, horns, and vibrating bells. A system like this was useful in loud industrial settings and large spaces.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Electronic alarm system

Date Made

circa 1965

Creator Notes

Made for Bell System division of AT&T by Sperti-Faraday Inc., headquartered at that time in Adrian, Michigan.

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

2014.0.17.158

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Iron alloy
Leather
Plastic
Rubber (Material)
Vinyl
Wood (Plant material)

Dimensions

Height: 30 in
Width: 12.5 in
Length: 35 in

Inscriptions

inscribed, each unit within case: No. KS16301 / MADE FOR BELL SYSTEM / SPERTI-FARADAY, INC.
Bell System Alarm Relay, circa 1965