Radio broadcast .. (1922-30)

The Navy's Example in Standardization 391 1914-17, which included standardized gaps, motorgenerators, standard sizes of switchboard instruments, key contacts, fan motors, condensers, jar racks, and loading coils. The same sizes of condensers and gap units, for example, were applicable to all sizes of standard sets. Standard plans were prepared by the Navy and distributed to all manufacturers for use in bidding on these sets. Standard ^-KW spark sets, adopted in 1917. Standardized requirements as regards rating of 2, 20, 30, 100 and 35O-KW arc sets, including certain interchangable motor-generator parts, arc electrodes, electrode holders for arc sets, in 1915-16. Standard form of operating procedure in 1915. Standard sockets and standard electrical constants for receiving tubes in 1916. Requirement for 2,ooo-hour life receiving tubes in 1916, raising the standard from 100 hours due to Naval insistence. Standard mica condenser units and racks interchangeable in all sizes of sets were adopted in 1916. Standardization on continuous waves for high-power communication, in 1915, although bitterly opposed by the Marconi Company. Standardization on transmitting tube sizes, sockets and electrical constants in 1918-19, when these tubes were still in practically a research stage. The Navy invited the other interested departments of the Government, and the four tube manufacturing companies, to attend meetings in Washington for determination of standards in advance of development. This resulted in the adoption of standard sizes of 5, 50, 250, 750, and 3Ooo-watt transmitting tubes and private companies immediately proceeded with developments of tubes to meet the requirements of these specifications. The filament voltage was standardized in each case. Standard battery racks, and battery sizes were required, where practicable. FOR USE WITH I, 2, 5, AND IO-KW SETS This group of interchangeable parts comprises a standard hand key, antenna switch, starter switch, control rheostat, condenser and transformer switch Standard requirements of purchase and testing of installations and insulating material have been issued yearly for ten years, each year more rigid. Standardization of aircraft radio specifications covering ratings of sets, aircraft antenna wire, fittings, fans for power supply, and other features requiring interchangeability, since 1918. These are but a few examples of standardization that have been required as the art progressed and as foresight demanded. The time has arrived to take stock again and to ascertain what standards are good, what standards are unsatisfactory, and what additional ones will be required to bring the art up to date. Where patent reasons stand in the way of standardization it is well to consider the desirability of making such concessions on the part of the patent owners, as may be necessary to the mutual advantageof the public, the manufacturer, and the military. It is not necessary that the various manufacturers approve a standard in efficiency and appearance of equipment, or in improvements to aid in salesmanship, but it is highly desirable, that standardization be required as regards interchangeability of accessories and moving parts to a certain degree, and above all that a standard of quality be adopted so that the service will not be a laughing stock to the detriment of the trade and the interest of the nation.