Socket on the back of some transceivers

[nomadradio]

The Amphenol "86" series of plugs included the 8-pin that was identical to the base of an octal tube. Basic number was "86-CP8". The suffix numeral showed the pin count. The radio above has a 86-CP9 sticking out the rear. The mating socket was the series 78 connectors. Original catalog number for the socket to fit that radio would be 78-S9.

The word octal really does mean 8. Just the same, the 86 series plugs and matching sockets still get called "octal" no matter how many pins are around the center plastic pilot. Pretty sure it's that center pilot with the polarizing ridge that's the reason.

73

 

[9C1Driver]

I'm somewhat shopping for a transceiver and some of them have this

View attachment 77038

Just wondered what it is

Thanks in advance I'm gonna take my test 27 June and looking for something decent that might partially function and I can work on.
At first I kinda ruled out any tubes but now I see that maybe some tubes are more available than output transistors.
So I'm lost but it's all good I don't really want to talk just listen that would be cool.

I'm still overwhelmed I really need a heads-up on what type of radio would be the easiest to find people talking about anything honestly I don't care if it's somebody reading a phone book.
Unfortunately I still want a boat anchor I can play with.


Thanks in advance this place ROCKS you guys THE BEST

You might consider buying a newer radio to use every day and then buy some really old stuff to tinker with. The one you have pictured looks like 1970's vintage. I guess it might be fun but you will be constantly fixing/cleaning/replacing parts in radio's like that. If you can even find the parts needed.

For the Technician License with an HF radio you will get to use 10m and 6m, for the rest you will need a General License. (yes you can also do CW on 15,40, and 80m with a Tech License)

For the moment a UHF/VHF radio will serve you well with a Technician License. If you have studied enough you might try taking the General at the same time. Good luck and enjoy.

 

[nomadradio]

Good point. You wouldn't choose a 50-year old model as your first car. Especially if it would need an overhaul before you could drive it to work every day.

73

 

[N8YX]

IC-718, IC-7200 if you want somewhat modern and simplistic. My preference for an entry level radio that isn't really entry level is a TS-440S. Grab an optioned-out R-5000, construct a Mute cable, add an antenna sharing connection on the back of the 440 (per published procedures) and run them as twins.

Or grab an IC-751A/R-71A pair and do same.

There are a bunch more I have in mind but those choices would depend on your skill set as a tech.