618F-1
Built by Collins, the 618F-1 is an airborne VHF transceiver.
COMMENTARY
The 618F-1 consists of the 618F-1 transceiver unit and the 427D-1 fixed IF, audio and Power supply unit. It was used in military and civilian aircraft for VHF AM communication. Controls are extremely simple. There is an on-off switch, a volume switch and a
squelch control. The frequency is selected with two rotary switches. The selected frequency is shown in a window. This set only covers the VHF aircraft band, so is unsuitable for ham operation. If
you live close to an airport it is good to listen to aircraft with. I live quite close to Brisbane airport and acquired this equipment so that I could listen to aircraft.
Cables are generally unavailable. The connector on the 618F-1 transceiver unit is a centronics type, so is easily sourced, although the 427D-1 connector is a multipole
amphenol connector which is generally not available. I soldered wires onto the pins of this connector, and then on the other end I put a centronics connector so I can disconnect the harness.
It was built by Collins in the late fifties.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Frequency Range: 118-135.95 MHz
Modes: AM.
Voltage Requirements: 28VDC or 12VDC, selected by links in power supply.
Power Output: 6W
Channel spacing: 50kc
CONSTRUCTION
The 618F-1 is designed to be compact, and it does this very well. As is common with Collins equipment, there is substantial gearing in the set. Despite being
lightweight, the radio is still solidly built Below: 618F-1 transceiver unit.
OVERALL RATINGS
Engineering rating (taking into time of design).
Compact but solid. 8/10
Fitness for purpose rating
10/10.
Usefulness as ham equipment rating
Doesn't cover the ham bands, but good to listen to aircraft with. 0/10