RAF WW2 Rare Pipsqueak Aircraft Fighter Contactor IFF Spitfire & Hurricane, 1940-41
Description
You are bidding for a RAF Master Contactor 10A/10994 Master Contactor Type 2. This Item is still in its packing, which is a bit tatty, but complete. This item consists of a clockwork timer in a wooden box. I am unsure if this has ever been used, it is certainly in excellent condition with the seals intact. The unit has never been removed from its wooden case. I have would it once and it ticks. It comes in its teak box but not with its connector.
These incredible rare items were used during the first years of WW2 by some Spitfires and Hurricanes, possibly other aircraft as well, to operate an intermittent radio signal in a slow pulse. This pulse was used by listeners, (whether in aircraft or on the ground I am not sure, but I suspect aircraft) to identify whether they were ‘friendly’, so possibly the first radio based IFF signal. The system was called Pipsqueak and should not be confused with the radar system used during the war. I understand that the name has its derivation from bat-based sonar, the pulse being the ‘pip’ and the squeak being the return signal. This is hearsay, but is about the most credible explanation that I have heard. The unit itself is a clockwork timer that plugs into a socket near the pilot.
Technical info
REF NO 10A/10994. Contactor Master Type 2, 24 Volts The Horstmann
Gear Co LTD Newbridge Works
Looks like this is an incredibly rare and highly unusual item, ideal for museum display.
See the pictures as they are the very best description and judge for yourself !
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