Not on display

Philips Superinductance model 634A

Radio
1933-1934 (made)
Artist/Maker
Place of origin

This model is one of a series of receivers in which the Philips company achieved, with tuned radio-frequency circuits, a selectivity and range equal to that of contemporary superheterodyne receivers. The term ‘superinductance’ refers to the tuning coils, Litz-wound on glass formers whose efficiency was largely responsible for the success of the design.

The receiver employs two variable-mu high-frequency amplifiers, preceded by a band-pass input circuit, and followed by a diode-tetrode detector/amplifier and a pentode output valve. The tuning knob controls four carefully aligned capacitors, and also a potentiometer which varies the bias on the high-frequency valves, to maintain constant sensitivity over the waveband. Source: Science Museum, London

This model was used in an advert for the Ovaltine milk drink and was sometimes referred to as the 'Ovaltiney set'.

Object details

Categories
Object type
Titles
  • Philips Superinductance model 634A (manufacturer's title)
  • Lentebode (manufacturer's title)
  • The Ovaltiney Set (popular title)
Materials and techniques
Veneered wooden case; Bakelite
Brief description
Radio, Philips 634A, 1933-34, veneered wood case
Physical description
A radio in a light oak case, with bakelite inset speaker fret and knobs. The Philips circular logo is embossed beneath the dial.
Dimensions
  • Width: 42cm
  • Height: 480cm
  • Depth: 28.5cm
  • Weight: 16.5kg
Measurements taken from online source - not checked on object.
Style
Production typeMass produced
Credit line
Given in memory of David Rush
Object history
Bequeathed by David Rush [81/695].
Subject depicted
Summary
This model is one of a series of receivers in which the Philips company achieved, with tuned radio-frequency circuits, a selectivity and range equal to that of contemporary superheterodyne receivers. The term ‘superinductance’ refers to the tuning coils, Litz-wound on glass formers whose efficiency was largely responsible for the success of the design.

The receiver employs two variable-mu high-frequency amplifiers, preceded by a band-pass input circuit, and followed by a diode-tetrode detector/amplifier and a pentode output valve. The tuning knob controls four carefully aligned capacitors, and also a potentiometer which varies the bias on the high-frequency valves, to maintain constant sensitivity over the waveband. Source: Science Museum, London

This model was used in an advert for the Ovaltine milk drink and was sometimes referred to as the 'Ovaltiney set'.
Collection
Accession number
W.24-1981

About this object record

Explore the Collections contains over a million catalogue records, and over half a million images. It is a working database that includes information compiled over the life of the museum. Some of our records may contain offensive and discriminatory language, or reflect outdated ideas, practice and analysis. We are committed to addressing these issues, and to review and update our records accordingly.

You can write to us to suggest improvements to the record.

Suggest feedback

Record createdJune 24, 2009
Record URL
Download as: JSONIIIF Manifest