Object Details
- Description (Brief)
- Telegraph sounders convert electrical pulses into audible sounds and are used to receive Morse code messages. The message travels as a series of electrical pulses through a wire. Short pulses make a dot, slightly longer pulses make a dash. The sequence of dots and dashes represent letters and numbers. The pulses energize the sounder’s electromagnets which move a lever-arm. The arm makes a loud “click” when it strikes a crossbar and the operator translates the pattern of sounds into the original language. This sounder from Manhattan Electric Supply Company is rated at 150 Ohms resistance. That indicates the unit was intended for so-called "mainline" service over long distances.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
- maker
- Manhattan Electric Supply Co.
- Credit Line
- from Western Union Corporation
- Physical Description
- wood (overall material)
- brass (overall material)
- rubber (overall material)
- Measurements
- overall: 3 1/2 in x 6 1/4 in x 3 1/2 in; 8.89 cm x 15.875 cm x 8.89 cm
- Object Name
- telegraph sounder
