01/02/07

Home
PRC LIST
PRC68
PRC90
PRC Portables
PRT4 PRR9
DC-DC
Collecting

 

 

       

 

Military Collector Group Post

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Today begins the promised PRC Data series. The first parts to be published will be all the data that has been compiled on PRC designated radio equipment since the complete list was first posted, and the books were published. It should serve as an update for those who were members at the time and received the data via this post, and those who subsequently purchased the book. My thanks go to Tom Bryan, Joe Pinner, and Alan Tasker for their help in compiling some of this data. The complete index, definitions, and list of reference sources appear below. The original PRC series was posted early last year, and shortly thereafter was printed. Because of it's extreme size, and the fact that versions were in print, I've declined to send it again to members who have requested it via our backmail files. Due to the frequent and repeated request to receive the original series, I have spent the last week condensing it to a size that can now again be included in this post. Keep in mind however that this material has been greatly condensed (from 80 pages down to 40). In most cases, such information as system features and historical data have been left out leaving the reader with a very general overview of the radio's intended purpose and operational parameters. Therefore, if you want ALL the known data, you must still purchase the book.

Thanks, Dennis

GLOSSARY, MILITARY RADIO DATA: Carry methods, abbreviations described

Manpack; Is described by a radio carried in the field by one or more persons, but must be set up for operation, and is not normally operable while being carried.

Backpack; Is described by a radio that is carried in the field, usually on the user's back & is operable while in this position.

Vehicular; Is described by a radio & or it's accessory components set up to allow operation in a vehicle.

Ground; The semi permanent or temporary installation of a radio set for field operations from a fixed location.

Hand-Carried; Is a radio, usually supplied with a carry handle & carried in a manor similar to a lunch box. Though sets of this type can be carried with one hand, two hands are usually required for operation. Accessory items may also be available for backpack type use.

Handheld; A walkie-talkie type radio that can be both carried & operated with a single hand.

Belt worn; Similar to a hand held radio, but not usually operable with a single hand. Some handheld radios might be adapted for this type operation

MC=Megacycles (megahertz)

KC=Kilocycles (kilohertz)

MW=miliwatts (1/1000 watt)

W=Watts

MA=miliAmps (1/1000 amp)

CH/Chan=channels

Xtal=crystal

FT/'=feet

ANT=antenna

KEY=CW key(Morse)

 

MILITARY RADIO DATA REFERENCES:

(*) Indicates do not have access to the entire document.

#1.TM11-487, 2 Oct 1944,Electronic Communications System Equipment.

#2.TM11-487A, Aug 1950,Directory of Signal Corps Radio Communication Equipment

#3.TM11-487A, 1958,MIL-HDBK-161, Military Handbook Electronic Communication Equipment.

#3A.TM11-487A-2, 1964,MIL-HDBK-161A, Military Standardization Handbook, Electronic Communications Equipment.

#4.TME11-227, June 1944,Signal Communication Equipment Directory, German Radio Communication Equipment.

#5.TME11-227A, Dec 1944,Signal Communication Equipment Directory, Japanese Radio Communication Equipment.

#6.TM11-227, 10 Apr 1944,Signal Communication Equipment Directory, Radio Communication Equipment.

#7.SIG 3,Oct 1953,List of Current Issue Items.

#8.SHIPS 275,1 Aug 1944,Catalogue of Naval Radio Equipment.

#9.FM24-24, 20 May 1977,Radio & Radar Reference Data.

#9A. FM24-24, Dec 1983.

#10. Jane's, 1979/80, Military Communications.

#11. Jane's, 1981, Military Communications.

#12. Jane's, 1988, Military Communications.

A. Jane's, 1985, Military Communications. *

B. Jane's, 1994/1995, Military Communications. *

C. Jane's, 1996/1997, Military Communications

#13.FAIR RADIO catalogue WS-( ). *

#14.ECOM 4451,Nov 1976,History of the Squad Radio.

#15.Milcom Exchange Catalogues. *

#16.Electronics Magazine, May 16 1966,

#17.Surplus Electronics Digest (Milcom Exchange). *

#18.Military Communications, A TEST FOR TECHNOLOGY, The US Army in Vietnam

by John D. Bergen, CMH Pub 91-12.

#19.U.S.Army in WW-II, The Signal Corps.

A. The Emergency by Dulany Terrett.

B. The Test, by George Raynor Thompson, Dixie R. Harris, Pauline M. Oaks,

Dulany Terrett.

C. The Outcome, by George Raynor Thompson, Dixie Harris, CMH Pub 10-18.

#20.OSS Special Weapons and Equipment, by Keith Melton.

#21.CIA Special Weapons and Equipment, by Keith Melton.

#22.Command Sets, a series of articles written by Gorden Eliot circa 1964-65 for CQ Magazine

#23. Item contained in my personal collection of equipment.

#24. ARROW Sales catalogue #113.

#25. Liberty Electronics Catalogue.

#26. Item has been personally encountered by me.

#27. Communications Receivers 3rd edition, by Raymond S Moore.

#28.Federal Logistics Data on Compact Disc(Fed Log).1995

#29. AFP 100-14,May 1980.

#29A,AFM 100-14,Feb.1969

#30. Associated equipment's technical manual.

#31. Interviews with owners or former users.

#32. Internet WEB page, Ft. Gordon Georgia. *

#33. Manufactures promotional literature.

#34 Internet Web Site. *

#35 Short-wave Receivers Past & Present (1942-1997). by Fred Osterman.

#36 Radios by Hallicrafters, by Chuck Dachis.

#37 Wireless for the Warrior, Vol. I. by Louis Meulstee

#38 Navships 94200.1(approx 1962) Communications Equipment Directory*

#39 T.O.31R-1-8, Ground Communications Electronic and Meteorological Equipment Directory, Radio Equipment. 1961

#40 FM24-19, 1991, Radio Operator's Handbook.

#41 TC24-24, 1988, Signal Data References: Communications-Electronics Equipment.

 

INDEX TO PRC DESIGNATED MILITARY RADIO EQUIPMENT:

PRC-1

PRC-F1

PRC-2

PRC-2F

PRC-3

PRC-3F

PRC-4

PRC-5

PRC-6

PRC-6T

PRC-6/180

KPRC-6

PRC-7

PRC-8

PRC-8A

PRC-9

PRC-9A

PRC-10

PRC-10A

PRC-14

PRC-15

PRC-16

PRC-17

PRC-20/6

PRC-21

PRC-23

PRC-24

PRC-25

PRC-26

CPRC-26

PRC-28

PRC-29

PRC-30

PRC-32

PRC-33

PRC-34(XI)

PRC-35(XC-2)

PRC-36(X1)

PRC-37

PRC-38

PRC-39

PRC-40

PRC-41

PRC-46

PRC-47

PRC-49

PRC-53

PRC-55

PRC-56

PRC-58

PRC-59

PRC-61

PRC-62

PRC-63

PRC-64

PRC-64A

PRC-65

PRC-66

PRC-66B

PRC-67

PRC-68

PRC-68A

PRC-68B

PRC-68B(V)2

PRC-68(X)

PRC-68(X-2)

PRC-68(X-4)

PRC-70

PRC-70(ABN)

PRC-70(V)1

PRC-70(VT-100)

PRC-71

PRC-72

PRC-73

PRC-74

PRC-74A

PRC-74B

PRC-74C

PRC-74T

PRC-74(?)

PRC-75

PRC-75A

PRC-77

PRC-77/GY

PRC-77A/GY

PRC-78/GY

PRC-80S

PRC-81

PRC-82

PRC-83

PRC-84

PRC-85

PRC-85K

PRC-86

PRC-88

PRC-88/GY

PRC-90

PRC-90-1

PRC-90-2

PRC-90-2C

PRC-90-2T

PRC-90T

PRC-91

PRC-91A

PRC-93

PRC-94V

PRC-94V1

PRC-94V2

PRC-94V3

PRC-96

PRC-97

PRC-99

PRC-101

PRC-103

PRC-104

PRC-104A

PRC-104B(V)1

PRC-104B(V)2

PRC-104B(V)3

PRC-104B(V)4

PRC-105

PRC-106

PRC-108

PRC-111

PRC-112(V)

PRC-112A

PRC-113

PRC-113-3

PRC-113(V)

PRC-113(V)1

PRC-113(V-3)

PRC-114

PRC-116

PRC-117

PRC-117A

PRC-117B

PRC-117C

PRC-117D

PRC-118

PRC-119

PRC-123V1

PRC-123V2

PRC-126

PRC-127

PRC-128(V)

PRC-129

PRC-130

PRC-132

PRC-133

PRC-134(V)5

PRC-134(V)6(C)

PRC-134(V)7(C)

PRC-135(V)1

PRC-135(V)2(C)

PRC-135(V)3(C)

PRC-136

PRC-138

PRC-138(V)X

PRC-138A(V)1

PRC-139(C)

PRC-139

PRC-140

PRC-174

PRC-174S

PRC-184

PRC-247

DA/PRC-260

PRC-277

UK/PRC-319

UK/PRC-320

UK/PRC-320/1

UK/PRC-321

UK/PRC-344

UK/PRC-349

UK/PRC-350

UK/PRC-351

UK/PRC-352

PRC-370

PRC-377

P-PRC-400

PRC-416

PRC-420

P/PRC-425

PRC-436

PRC-439

PRC-447

PRC-502

PRC-504

PRC-505

CPRC-508

CPRC-509

CPRC-510

PRC-515

PRC-547

PRC-549

BE/PRC-600/06

PRC-601

PRC-601S

PRC-610

BE/PRC-611

PRC-613

PRC-614

PRC-638

PRC-660T

PRC-660UV

PRC-677

PRC-677A

PRC-730

PRC-738

PRC-777

PRC-838

PRC-911/GY

PRC-921/GY

BE/PRC-1012

PRC-1077

PRC-1088

PRC-1099

PRC-1200

PRC-1250

PRC-1300

PRC-2000

PRC-2006

PRC-2061

PRC-2077

PRC-2200

KL/PRC-3620

PRC-4620

KL/PRC-6608

Addenda:

PRC-76

PRC-89

PRC-62

PRC-124

PRC-58

PRC-49

PRC-6/6

CPRC-26

PRC-6

DA/PRC-261

PRC-22

PRC-27

PRC-136

PRC-56

PRC-42

PRC-52

PRC-44

PRC-87

PRC-95

PRC-90

PRC-68A

PRC-68B

PRC-515

PRC-521

PRC-10A

PRC-28

PRC-33

ANNOUNCEMENT;

Today begins the continuation of an old series first published last year, "PRC Data Addenda". It will include all the information that has surfaced for various PRC designated military radios since the series was first sent out. Those of you who were lucky and received it the first time should be able to add this info to that rather simply. Those who've purchased the book should also have no trouble transferring this material to a word processor and making the needed alterations for printing and inclusion. The first document to be sent will be a list of the reference material all this data was obtained from. You might also use it as a shopping list for books you should be on the lookout for. You'll notice that each radio description is followed by a Ref. # , this refers to the corresponding number in the reference list where the original data was obtained. This same list, with a few additions has been used many times in the past, and will continue to be in the future. The second document is a complete index for all the radios of this type that some data has been obtained for. In some/many cases, the information on a given radio is very limited and more data is desperately needed. Should you have knowledge of any set not included in the index, or even suspect that you might have more info on a radio that is included, please let us know about it. Similarly, if you should like to see the known data on any of those sets included in the index you can request it at any time. DO NOT ask to receive the complete original series, this because that material is now in print, and is far too lengthy for me to email (in excess of 80 pages). All this material was originally composed in MS Works, and each installment will be followed by the format by which you should be able to duplicate the material for the purpose of printing & compatibility with previously presented material. You should be able to open a word processor file, select/copy/paste this data to it.

Dennis

 

CONDENSED PRC RADIO DATA;

By Dennis Starks

PRC-1/RT-30; Suitcase portable, HF, CW transmitter receiver. Built into a common suitcase, the PRC-1 was originally intended for use by the OSS in WW-II. It was however rejected as too heavy. Regardless, it saw extensive service with them and other Intelligence and Guerrilla forces. Ops 2-12mc in two continuously tunable bands, AM or CW (rec). Two bands with Xtal control, CW only (trans). RF power output is 30 watts. Size 18 x 13.25 x 17.25" 32lbs,OD color. Ref.#3, #19C, #23

PRC-F1; Australian HF/AM/CW/SSB, backpack transceiver. Designed and built in Australia, the PRC-F1 (originally designated A-512) follows closely the design purpose of the US PRC-74. Ops 2-12mc in 1kc steps for a possible 10,000 channels. RF power out is rated at 10/1 watts PEP AM/USB, 5/1 watts CW (high/low power settings). Requires 28vdc with a typical current consumption of 550ma(trans), 35ma(rec). Size 32cmw x 12.7cmh x 29.4cmd,weight 14lbs/11oz(RT unit), approx 20 lbs. (operational backpack). Ref.#30,31

PRC-2; VHF set for Paratroop Liaison. No further information. Ref.#19

PRC-F2; This set is an updated version of the Australian PRC-F1. Improvements to that model include enhanced frequency stability & reliability. Advanced circuit design is incorporated including a redesigned microprocessor controlled synthesizer. For more information, see PRC-F1.

PRC-3; Portable microwave set to replace signal lights. No further information. Ref.#19

PRC-F3; This radio set is an updated version of the Australian PRC-F1 & F2 models. There is some confusion as to whether or not this model is in fact the PRC-F2. For more information, see those types.

PRC-4; Disguised version of BC-611. No further information. Ref.#19

PRC-5; CW transmitter-receiver built for use by special agents of Military Intelligence. Set could be supplied in either luggage-type carry case, or contained in canvas bags. Transmitter ops 4-16mc via 4 plug in coils sets, xtal control with 10-16 watts output. Receiver ops 4.5-16mc continuously tunable in 2 bands. Powered from 110 or 220vac mains. Size 11 x 10 x 4.5", 15lbs. Black crinkle finish. Ref.#3,#19,#23,#30

PRC-6/RT-196; VHF FM handheld transceiver. Intended to replace the BC-611 of WW-II, development started before the end of that war. The PRC-6 entered service in 1951; preliminary manuals were printed in 1949. It remained in service at least until the mid 1960's. Ops 47-54mc,approx RF output 350mw, 1 channel xtal control. Requires 1.5v/850ma, 45v/8ma, 90v/30ma(trans), 1.5v/550, 45v/12ma, 90v/3ma/, -3v/bs (rec), supplied by BA-270 battery. Size, 4.75 x 4.75 x 14.5,3.5lbs. Accessories include H-33 handset, short tape antenna, AT-249 or AT-340 homing antennas, ID-292 channel alignment indicator, CK-6 xtal kit (42 CR-23 xtals in metal box). Ref.#23, #28, #30, any TM11-487 post 1950.

PRC-6 (solid state variants); Though not adopted by the US government, it is known that small quantities of each have been acquired. Their use is subject to rumor & speculation. One possible source for these radios was a California company, owned by a Russian immigrant, and which went out of business due to insufficient government sales. No further information.

#1. Is a direct conversion of the normally tube type circuit to solid state. It uses the standard PRC-6 chassis with only very minor changes to the underside components. The tubes have been replaced with potted solid state boards that cannot be removed. This radio must be considered disposable, as servicing is impossible. There is no outward indication that the radio is anything other than a standard PRC-6.b Ref.#26, #31

#2.This variant is similar to #1 except the tubes have been replaced with modules that can be removed & serviced. This radio may have a Data plate that indicates it's solid state nature. It is also rumored to have been CIA supplied to a Central American organization in the early 80's. Ref.#31

#3.A last variant, possibly of German origin similar to their PRC-6T & /180. However this version is not synthesized, & it uses standard PRC-6 xtals.

PRC-6T; This may be the same radio as the PRC-6/180. Built by Telemit of Germany, it entered service with DDR forces in 1978. Additionally a PRC-6 (T) is listed in Ref.#10,as a fully solid state replacement for the PRC-6. Built by AN/COMM Electronics North Hollywood Ca. Reported features were the use of standard PRC-6 xtals, 11-15vdc (12 Vdc nominal) operation with a drain of 20ma (rec) & 120ma (trans), and an RF power output of 500mw. Ref.#10, #11, #28

PRC-6/6; This West German produced radio is physically identical to the original U.S. version and uses a common case. The original case has been modified to allow for the radios different internal construction and extended six-channel capacity. The external antenna connector has been replaced with a channel selector switch, and a window has been placed on the side of the back cover for a selected channel display. While this version also uses sub-miniature tubes in its design, the circuits are completely different from the original U.S. types. Even different crystal types are used. The only internally compatible component is the radio's battery. Ref.#23

PRC-6/180; This is a German produced (Telemit) version of the US PRC-6 that provides 180 synthesized channels & a 100% solid state circuit design. The external appearance is identical to a standard PRC-6, & retrofit kits are available to convert existing radios to PRC-6/180 configuration by replacing the original chassis. It is unknown whether any US Government organization has acquired these sets, but several have been encountered in this country. Ops 47-55.95mc with either 50 or 25kc channel spacing. RF output is rated 500mw.Requires 8ea standard BA-30 type, 1.5v batteries. Ref. #10, #11

K-PRC-6; Handheld VHF FM transceiver. The K-PRC-6 is domestically produced in South Korean & is in service with their Armed Forces. Though it bears no similarity with other versions of the PRC-6, it is intended to fulfil the same role. It is of solid state design, but fairly old technology considering it's late introduction into service (approx early 1980's).

Cosmetically it resembles a space age, WW-II vintage BC- 611 & is very nearly as simple. Ops 45-57mc, with one (apparently) Xtal control channel. (A) models work 27.25-30mc with two channels. No further information. Ref.#12

PRC-7 (XN-1); Ground, vehicular, or backpack transceiver. Possibly never progressed past the experimental stage, only one has ever been encountered. It is thought to use some common modules with the PRC-10 family of radios. Ops 2-12mc(trans), 2-15mc(rec), AM, on five xtal control channels, with 800mw RF output. Accessories include 10'10"whip antenna, batteries B-34 (6vdc), B-35 (1.5vdc), 3ea B-53 (135vdc). 4 3/4 x 10 1/8 x 9 27/32". Developed by RCA for US Navy circa 1955,original cost $392.00. Ref.#3, #31

PRC-8, PRC-9, PRC-10 General; Variants of this family of radios are known to have been produced in numerous countries with some expanding on the U.S. systems to include: Solid state inverter type power supplies that allowed backpack operation from standard batteries (at least France and Canada). Dual type handset and antenna compatibility (at least Canada). R.F. power amplifiers for increased range while mobile (France and Germany). Ref. #23, #26, #31

PRC-8/RT-174; Backpack transceiver developed for Armored use. Can be operated vehicular by using AM-598 24vdc audio amplifier/power supply. Ops 20-27.9mc continuously with calibration points every 1mc, FM, with 1.2w RF output. Requires 135v, 67.5v/20ma, 1.5v/500ma(rec), 135v/55ma, 67.5v/15ma, -6v(trans), supplied by BA-279 or AM-598. Accessories include H-33 handset, CY-744 battery box, BA-279 battery, AT-271 & AB-129 (long antenna & rubber spring base), AT-272 short tape antenna, AT-339 homing antenna, M-1945 belt, CW-216 ant & acc. bag, ST-120 backpack harness. RT-174 less battery box 9.5 x 3 x 10.5 9lbs.original cost $218.25-$371.94. Ref.#3, #28, #30

PRC-8A/RT-174A; Identical to PRC-8 except it has a smoother panel layout, provision for sidetone during transmit, & calibration points are every 2.15mc vice 1mc. Circa approx 1959.

PRC-9/RT-175; Identical to PRC-8 except operation is from 27-39mc, & has 1watt RF output. Adopted for use by Field Artillery. Orig cost $292.25-$513.96.Ref.#3, #28, #30

PRC-9A/RT-175A; Identical to PRC-9 except for those differences noted under PRC-8A. This series of radios is known to have been both used by, and domestically produced in a number of countries including Australia, Britain (as the A-42), France (similar to the ER-79A), and in Canada (as the CPRC-509). Ref.#42 (BM#52)

PRC-10/RT-176; Identical to PRC-8 & PRC-9 except operation is from 38-54mc, 900mw. Can use AT-340 homing antenna. Adopted for use by Infantry. Original cost $307.49-$592.78.Ref.#3, #28, #30

PRC-10A/RT-176A; identical to PRC-10 except for those differences noted under PRC-8A. This series of radios is known to have been both used by, and domestically produced in a number of countries including Australia, Britain (as the A-41), France (as the ER-79A), and in Canada (as the CPRC-510). Ref.#23, #30, #42 (BM#52)

PRC-14/RT-271; Backpack UHF AM transceiver. Intended for use by FAC's in strike control of Fighter Aircraft. Operates on any of four xtal control channels between 225-399.9mc,AM, with approx 1 watt RF output. The PRC 14 can use either an H-33 handset or T-17 mic & HS-30 headphones (in conjunction with CX-2098 cable). Other accessories include CW-293 Radio set bag, CX-2097 power cable, ME-68 ammeter, BB-402 6v wet cell. Circa 1958. Ref.#23, #26, #31

PRC-15 Experimental Handheld VHF/FM transceiver. Ops on two xtal control channels, 47-55.4mc,with an output power of 100mw.Requires 45v/12ma & 1.5v/500ma (rec), 45v/24ma & 1.5v/560ma (trans). Size 2 3/8 x 2 1/2 x 10 1/2,3.5lbs. Ref.#14

PRC-15; Jane's Military Communications, 1979/80,81 & 88 List an HF version of the PRC-15 as being in use by US Armed Forces. However, the picture shown has been obviously posed for by a professional model. It is believed that either a type O has been made or this is a Manufactures model number and not an AN/type. The radio pictured bears a strong Southcomm family resemblance. In any case, the PRC-15 designation is not an officially adopted one, nor has the US adopted or do they use this radio with that number affixed.

PRC-16; Backpack or portable ground VHF, FM transceiver. Adaptation of the normally vehicular RT-70/GRC. Ops 47-58mc,FM, with an RF output of approx 500mw. Requires 6v & 90v supplied by 5ea BA-403, & 1ea BA-419.Circa, 1951.Ref.#3, #23, #30

PRC-17; Handheld VHF/UHF AM transceiver intended for search & rescue service & used by the US Navy. Ops on 121.5 & 243mc AM/MCW, with an RF power output of 50mw.Requires 135v & 1.5v supplied by internal batteries. Size 14 3/4 x 2 5/8 x2 7/8". Original cost circa 1951-1953 $210.00.Ref.#

PRC-20/6; Commercial (Sunair) model number for the AN/PRC-108.Ref. #30

PRC-21/RT-209; Hand-carried portable VHF/FM transceiver. Probable use was by Military Police & other security forces. Ops on one xtal control frequency between 152-174mc with an RF power output of 150mw. Requires 67.5v/11ma, 45v/10ma, 1.5v/420ma,-6v/10-125ma (rec), 135v/28ma, 67.5v/4ma,

45v/11ma, -6v/11ma(trans), supplied by BA-358. Accessories include H-33 handset & AT-486 antenna. Size 12 x 8 1/8 x 5 3/4", 13.5lbs. Original cost circa 1955 $484.00-$512. Ref #3, 23, #28, #30

PRC-22; The PRC-22 is described as a UHF "Handie Talkie" capable of operation over the frequency range of 225-399.9mc with a possible 1760 channels. RF output power is rated at 300mw, with AM voice operation. Circa 1951, only three components are noted as being part of the PRC-22 system: R.F Tuner, I.F. amplifier, Power Supply. The latter might indicate the use of a vibrator type power supply and wet cell batteries. Built by Air Associates Inc., contract NObar-52660 June 1951. No further information. Ref.#38

PRC-23/RT-235; Hand-carried portable VHF/FM transceiver. Adoption of the commercial Motorola FHTR-1BLL. Ops on one xtal control frequency between 25-30mc with an RF output power of 500mw. Requires 6ea BA-30 1.5v batteries, 3ea BA-51 67.5v batteries, & AT-348 antenna. Size 12 5/8 x 3 1/8 x 12 1/2", 14.9lbs. Circa approx 1953. Ref.#3

PRC-24/RT-236: Identical to PRC-23 except operation is from 40-50mc, Motorola model number FHTR-1BH. Ref. #3

PRC-25/RT-505; First solid state FM, tactical backpack transceiver, also first to use the now standard 150cps tone squelch system. Ops 30-75.95mc, synthesized, on any of 920 channels at 50 kHz spacing, with 2 mechanically set. RF power output is rated at 2 watts; actual measured output averages 4 watts. Radio can be used vehicular with the addition of the AM-2060 amplifier/power supply (several other types avail), see VRC-53 & GRC-125 for more info. Requires 3v & 12-15v normally supplied by BA-4386 (many battery types exist). Size (RT-505 less battery box) 4 x 11 x 11", 13.5lbs. Numerous accessories were/are produced for the PRC-25/77 family to help it fulfil many roles, the major ones are AT-892 (short tape antenna), AT-271 & AB-591 (long antenna & rubber spring base), AT-912 or AS-1729 (vehicular antennas), T-984 (longwire antenna, RC-292 (fixed station antenna), AT-784 (homing antenna), ST-138 (backpack harness), CY-2562 (battery box), H-138 or H-189 (handsets), CW-503 (canvas antenna & accessories bag). Ref. #9, #10, #11, #18, #23, #30

PRC-25A; Identical the PRC-25 except for modifications to the A25 module increasing the audio bandwidth. This to allow operation with TTY & voice security equipment. Ref.#26

PRC-25B; Identical to previous versions of the PRC-25. Suspect that these are overhauled radios & some may have been painted CARC. In addition, a possibility of the substitution of silicon type solid state devices. Ref.#26

PRC-26; This number was originally intended to be used on the PRC-35. However, it was skipped to avoid possible confusion with the Canadian CPRC-26. A quantity of these radios were procured by the US in the mid 1950's to be tested as a possible replacement for the PRC-6. For more info see CPRC-26. Ref.#14, #23

CPRC-26/CRT-1; Portable Canadian VHF/FM transceiver. Intended as a squad radio similar in purpose to the US PRC-6. Variant models of CPRC-26 exist I/E CPRC-26 (A-F), the only deference in these being the frequencies of the six channels supplied. Ops 47-54mc,on any of 6 independently tuned channels, using the same xtals as the US PRC-6.RF power output approx 300mw. Requires 1.5v/850ma, 45v/8ma, 90v/30ma (trans), 1.5v/550ma, 45v/12ma, 90v/3ma, 3v/bias (rec), supplied by BA-289. Accessories include, H-5001 handset, H-5002 headphone, CTS-4 battery test set, CCX/CPRC-26 battery cable (for arctic use), Type 88 British antenna (in addition any of the common US short steal type antennas can be used), US type AT-339 homing antenna, CAT-3 long wire antenna, CCW-1 canvas bag, CTS-3 test set. Ref.#14, #23, #30, #42 (BM#52)

PRC-27; Backpack UHF/AM transceiver. Intended for use by ground troops for close air support purposes as a replacement for the Navy model MAY. Ops 225-400mc on any one of 4 xtal control channels. R.F. output power is rated at 2 watts. DC power derived from internal dry batteries. Size 3 x 12 x 19", 25 lbs. Built by Designers for Industry, Cleveland Oh., Contract NObar-63367, March 1953. Ref.#38

PRC-28/RT-339; Backpack VHF, FM transceiver, Identical to PRC-9A, except is not continuously tunable. Ops 30-42mc on any one xtal controlled channel, with an RF output of 850mw.All other parameters, accessories etc are the same as PRC-9A. Original cost, circa 1953, $810.00. Ref.#3

PRC-29; Hand carried VHF, FM portable transceiver. Adoption of the commercial Motorola model X-11-1A. Intended for use by guards & security police for internal security or industrial control operations. Ops 30-42mc on one xtal control channel with an RF output power of 750mw. Requires three 45v (Burgess M-30) B batteries, & two ea. 1.5v standard 4F batteries. Accessories include P-8653-A (antenna), P-9096 (battery power supply), K-9098 (carry case), TA-124 (carry strap kit), & P-9094A (microphone). Size 5 x 12 1/8 x 15 1/8" 23.7lbs. US Navy order date 20 Sept. 1954. Ref.#3

PRC-30; Experimental handheld VHF FM transceiver. Very similar to the PRC-15, this set was the first attempt to utilize the then new solid state technology. Ops 25-50mc,on any two of 500 channels, xtal control. With an RF output power of 100mw. Requires 4.5v/15ma & 1.5v/5ma(rec), 4.5v/250ma & 1.5v/450ma (trans). Size 2 x 2 x 8.5", 2lbs 12oz. Ref.#14

PRC-32; Handheld UHF AM, MCW transceiver. Apparently intended for use by downed Airman. Approx vintage 1960. Ops on 243mc, Requires an external battery connected via an umbilical cable (Possibly the same as that used on the URC-4). Size 2 7/8 x 1 3/4 x 4 3/4", haze gray in color. Ref.#23

PRC-33/RT-339; Hand carried VHF FM portable transceiver. Adoption of a militarized commercial radio set Type PS-40 Model HC by Industrial Radio. Ops on any one xtal control channel between 30-42mc,with an RF output power of 750mw. Requires 1.5v (Burgess 8F), 45v, & 135v (both B voltages supplied by multiple Burgess M-39 batteries), a 110vac and various DC vibrator supplies are also known to have been made. Accessories include AT-673 (antenna), CY-1916 (case), & microphone. Size 4.5 x 10 x 11.5", 15lbs. US Navy order date 14 Sept.1955. Ref. #3

PRC-34 (X1); Experimental VHF FM helmet transceiver. Ops 38-51mc on any one of twelve xtal control channels, with an RF output power of 30mw. Range (whip extended) 500yds. Requires 1.5v/8ma & 4.5v/13ma(rec), 1.5v/8ma, 4.5v/13ma, & 45v/12ma (trans) provided by a special multi cell battery. Size4 9/16 x 2 7/8 x 3/4"(RT unit), Weight including helmet 3.5lbs. Last manual printing 1961. Ref.#14, #30

PRC-35 (XC-2); Experimental VHF FM portable transceiver. Designed by RCA in conjunction with the PRC-25/VRC-12 equipment as a replacement for the PRC-6. Its original designation of PRC-26 was changed to avoid confusion with a very similar Canadian set (see CPRC-26). Ops 30-69.95 on any 4 presettable frequencies out of 800 synthesized channels spaced 50kc apart. RF power output 600mw. Requires 11.7v/56ma & 26v/7.3ma(rec), 11.7v/71ma & 26v/120ma(trans). Size 11 x 6 3/8 x 3 3/4, 9.5lbs. Known accessories include battery box, handset & antenna (common with PRC-25). Ref.#14, #23

PRC-36 (X1); Experimental VHF FM belt worn transceiver. Designed by RCA in conjunction with the PRC-34. The PRC-36 uses the same basic RT unit as the PRC-34. All operating parameters are the same as the PRC-34 with the exception of frequency range (47.8-51mc). Ref.#14,#30

PRC-37; Handheld VHF FM transceiver. Intended for use by Air Police & with Air Rescue teams as a replacement for the PRC-21 in the US Air Force. Ops 144-174mc, with an RF power output of 1 watt. Power could be provided by either 6 or 12v rechargeable batteries. No other information is available. Reportedly the set could use any of the following accessories, Antenna, case, carry strap, loudspeaker, microphone, & power supply. Ref.#3

PRC-38; HF/SSB, VHF/FM backpack transceiver. Built in very limited quantities by Collins Radio. Ops 20-69.99mc in 10kc steps, FM or USB. A built in antenna tuner can accommodate either 5 & 10ft whips, or a 10ft vehicular antenna. Other accessories common with the PRC-41 include H-33 handset, speaker, & carry harness. Ref. Collins HF Communications Catalogue 1964/65

PRC-39; Portable VHF,FM transceiver. Built by Industrial Radio, suspect this is a commercial type radio similar to the PRC-40, and of tube type or hybrid circuitry. Ops 28-44mc FM with an output power of 1.5 watts. Requires 1.5v, 15v, & 150v. Original cost $439.00.No further information avail. Ref.#28

PRC-40/RT-507; Hand carried VHF FM portable transceiver. Built by Industrial Radio, it's a non-tactical radio built for police & security forces. Ops 132-152mc,on one xtal control channel, with an output power of 1.5 watts (PRC-40) or 1 watt (PRC-40AX), has built in loud speaker & uses external hand mic. Requires 15v supplied by 6ea Eveready 707 7.5-volt batteries (PRC-40AX) or 1.5v, 15v & 150v(PRC-40). Accessories include 1/4 wave whip type antenna & CY-2625 canvas carry bag with associated straps for over the shoulder or backpack carry. Original cost $1350.00. Ref.#23,#28,#30

PRC-41/RT-695 (*); Backpack, vehicular or fixed station, UHF, AM transceiver. Entered service approx 1963 with the US Navy & by 1964 was adopted by all services. Ops 225-399.9mc on any one of 1750 synthesized channels spaced 100kc apart. RF output power is 3 watts. (A) models are identical, except are capable of operating X-mode with the TSEC/KY-38. Requires 24vdc normally supplied by vehicle storage battery, BB-451 silver zinc rechargeable battery, or PP-3700 110vac power supply. Weight

44.6 lbs. with battery. Accessories include H-33 handset, LS-166 loudspeaker, AS-1404 antenna (can be used portable, vehicular or fixed station), AS-1405 directional fixed station antenna, AB-777 mast, CY-3885 transit case, MT-2976 vehicle mount radio, MT-2977 mounting, CX-8686 power cable, CX-8687 power cable, CX-8688 spec purpose electrical cable, harness set, rucksack, frame. Original cost $4370.00. Ref.#3,#3A,#9,#9A,#23,#28,#30

PRC-42; Backpack HF/SSB transceiver. Intended for tactical use in support of amphibious operations. Ops 2-12mc with a possible 20,000 channels. R.F output power is rated at 20 watts. Operable from 110vac 60cps, or internal batteries (27.5vdc). Built by AVCO Mfg. Corp, Lawrence, Mass. contract NObar-77507, November 1958. Ref. #38. A second description of this radio exists as printed in a late 60's edition of "Electronics, a McGraw-Hill publication". Here it is noted as being a developmental radio by AVCO that turned into the PRC-70 program. Ops 2-76mc in 1kc steps with an R.F. output power of 40 watts. 32 lbs.

PRC-44, Navy flight deck communication system. Ref. late 60's edition of "Electronics", a McGraw-Hill publication. No further information.

PRC-46; General purpose VHF, FM portable transceiver. Ops 144-174mc on one xtal control channel with an output power of 1 watt. Requires 10.5v (rec), 1.5v & 150v (trans). No further information. Ref.#29

PRC-47/RT-671; two man, pack-portable HF USB/CW transceiver. Collins designed and built for use by Special Forces. Ops 2-12mc on any one of 10,000 synthesized frequencies spaced every 1kc. RF output power is 100 watts (high) or 20 watts (low). Requires 110vac(400cps) or 24vdc supplied by vehicle storage battery, or BB-451 silver zinc rechargeable battery. Size (RT-671) 7 x 13.5 x 21.25, 42lbs. Accessories include CY-3700 transit case, CW-647 panel cover, H-33 handset, LS-166 loudspeaker, H-233 headphones, J-45 telegraph key, MX-4430 battery adapter terminal, CX-8393 AC power cable, CX-8394 DC power cable, CX-8395 battery cable, AS-1320 whip antenna & canvas bag, AS-1321 long wire antenna, MT-2786 legs & ground plane & canvas bag, MK-1519 vertical installation kit, CV-2455 TTY converter, 2 ea pack frames, rucksack bag. A small 110vac/400cps gas generator is also known to have been built by Homelite based on a chain saw motor. Original equipment cost $6004.00. Ref.#9, #9A, #23, #28, #29, #30, #42(BM#52)

PRC-49; Handheld UHF, AM/MCW transceiver. Designed for use by downed aircrew. Ops 225-400mc on any one xtal control channel with an RF power output of 100-250mw. Size 5.75 x 1.75 x 3.75". Solid State Design requires 6 and 14vdc supplied by an external battery. No further information. Original cost $1080.00. Ref.#15/1987, #28

PRC-49 (various); Variants of the PRC-49 are known to exist, these include PRC-49A, B, & C. It is unknown the differences between these & previous versions, as all share the same basic features & parameters. It is possible that the only difference is in the original manufacturer/supplier. C models are reported to include a volume control. Ref.#28

PRC-52; Portable HF/CW transmitter-receiver. Ops 3-16mc Rx, 3-32 MHz Tx, CW Tx only, crystal controlled, 5W with Amp AM-2855, 15 W with AM-2856, runs from 6-72 VDC or 110 VDC, 2 penlight cells (3vdc) for Rx. Built by Delco and Victory. Ref. late 60's edition of "Electronics", a McGraw-Hill publication. No further information.

PRC-53; Headset VHF, FM transceiver. Developed & manufactured by the Overhaul & Repair Department, US Navy Air Station, Norfolk VA. This radio is a repackaged PRC-34/36 into a headset intended for use in extreme noise environments, & can be incorporated into a standard Naval ground air crewman's protective helmet. For more information see PRC-34 & 36.Circa 1961.Ref.#26,#30

PRC-55; Receiver transmitter, VHF, FM. Built by Allied Signal with an original Navy cost of $1810.00. Ops on one channel, 132-150.8mc, A3, size 4 x12 X 16", 8.4vdc operating voltage, NSN 5820-00-757-3010. No further information.Ref.#28

PRC-56; Built by Allied Signal with an original US Navy cost of $2610.00.NSN 5820-00-757-3011,no further information. Ref.#28. Additional information found in a late 60's edition of "Electronics", a (McGraw-Hill publication): AD805-257, UHF, too bulky, tubes employed. No further information.

PRC-58/RT-772; Body worn VHF, FM transceiver. Built by Repco for general-purpose use. Ops 144-174mc on any one xtal control frequency. RF power output is 1 watt. Requires 12vdc.Original US Air Force cost $450.00.Ref.#23, #28, #29

PRC-59; Hand-carried, portable, VHF FM transceiver. Adoption of the commercial Motorola model Z23BAC1001AR by the US Treasury Department. Note, this radio is identical except for color, frequency split, & the use of a microphone versus handset, to the US Navy's PRC-61. Circuit design includes a 100% solid state receiver & a hybrid transmitter. Provisions exist for use of a handset or internal loudspeaker. Ops 152-174mc on any one (two channels optional) xtal controlled frequency. RF power output 1 watt. Requires

6v/26ma (rec) provided by Burgess F4P1 battery, 1.5v/875ma (Burgess 4D cell), 67.5v & 130v/55ma (2ea

Burgess XX45) trans. Optionally power could be supplied via internal 6 volt nicads or any external 12vdc source using a solid state inverter, a 110vac power supply was also available. Accessories include 1/4 wave whip antenna 2AD6021A, Handset ZMN6003A, carry strap ZLN6024A, and carry case ZLN6025A. Size

12 1/8 x 3 1/8 x 10 1/8", 7lbs(less batteries). Circa 1961. Ref.#26, #30

PRC-61/RT-693; Hand-carried VHF, FM portable transceiver. Identical to PRC-59 except frequency range of 130-152mc, use of microphone and internal loudspeaker versus a handset. Adopted at least for use by the US Navy, color is haze gray. Uses battery box CY-3870. Original US Navy cost $1770.00. For more information see PRC-59. Ref.#23, #28

PRC-62; Manpack HF AM/SSB transceiver. This radio was reported to be used in Vietnam by patrols to talk to unit headquarters in a magazine article "Vietnam, Electronics in War", Electronics magazine May 16,1966. Reported to operate 2-30mc, AM & SSB. Other reports indicate an operational range of 1-12mc with AM, CW, & MCW modes of operation. An Australian list of current issue equipment, circa 1966, includes this radio and describes it as being under development in the U.S. A further description from this same country reads: "AN/PRC-62 is an HF SSB manpack or vehicular set. Frequency Range 2 to 30 mc/s in 28,000 x 1 kc/s steps. Emission SSB Voice and CW. Power Output 20 Watts. Size 13" x 17 1/4" x 4", Weight 29 pounds. Power Source: 12 volt Nickel Cadmium battery for manpack use or 24 volt vehicle supply. Antennas:

A. Manually tuned 9'3" portable whip

B. Adjustable sloping wire with counterpoise.

C. Doublet with transmission line

D. Vehicular 15ft whip

Status In development in U.S.A."

#42 (BM#52)

PRC-63; Handheld UHF AM/beacon transceiver. Designed & built by GTE for use by downed aircrew. Ops on 243mc, with one xtal control channel. Requires approx 12vdc. Size 1.5 x 4.5 x 3.25". Original cost (US Navy) $734.00. Ref. #23, #28

PRC-64; Manpack HF, AM/CW transceiver. Adoption of the CIA's Delco 5300 for use by US Army Special Forces. Ops 2.2-6mc on any of four xtal control frequencies. RF output power is 5 watts (CW) & 1.5 watts (AM). Requires 4v, 12, & 24v normally supplied by BA-1509. Size 10 x 5 x 4.5", 7.5lbs(with battery). Circa 1965. The PRC-64 is also known to have seen service with Australian SAS in South East Asia and was listed as a standard issue item circa 1966. Ref.#9, #9A, #16, #23, #30, #42 (BM#52,26)

PRC-64A; Same as the PRC-64, but with added provision for 300wpm code burst operation using GRA-71 keyer.

PRC-65; Man-pack VHF, AM transceiver. For tactical use to support landing or parachute drop operations. Ops 100-156mc on any of 1120 channels. RF output is 5 watts. Requires 26.5vdc. No further information. Ref.#29

PRC-66; Backpack VHF/UHF, AM transceiver. Intended for use by FAC's, paratroopers, & other combat communications teams in landing, parachute drop, & fighter strike control operations. Ops 225-399.9 on any of 3500 synthesized channels, spaced 50kc apart. RF power output is 3 watts. Requires 24vdc supplied by either alkaline or rechargeable nicad batteries. Set is small enough to be held & operated with one hand. Original US Airforce cost $8926.23. Ref.#11, #12, #13, #28, #29

PRC-66A; Same as the PRC-66 with added squelch function.

PRC-66B; Same as the PRC-66A with an added Guard channel Rx option with installation of proper module, and added wide band audio, for use with speech security equipment.

PRC-67; Personal portable VHF, FM transceiver. Lightweight self-contained radio set for personal communication within a half mile of a central base station. Ops 40-44mc on one xtal control channel. RF output power is 160mw. Requires 10vdc. No further information. Ref.#29.

PRC-68/RT-1113; Handheld VHF FM transceiver. Intended for tactical short-range communications between persons in independent small action teams. The PRC-68 can be provided with equipment that will allow secure speech & vehicular operation. Ops on 50kc channel spacing, with the 10 channels consecutively spaced 200kc from each other, thus covering any 2mc segment of the 30-79.95mc range. RF power output is 1 watt with a range of 330yrds (short antenna) or 1 mile (long antenna). Requires 12-15vdc supplied by BA-1588, several other battery types are also available. Size 8.35 x 3.8 x 1.52", 46oz (including antenna & battery). Accessories include various standard handsets & headsets, 6"short rubber antenna, 14"long rubber antenna, PRC-25/77 tape antennas can also be used, nylon carry case & shoulder strap, T S-3354 test set. Note, the illustrations provided in Ref. #9, #11, & #12 are of experimental sets, data provided in Ref.#9, & #9A is incorrect. Original cost $1884.00. Ref.#9, #9A, #10, #11, #12, #14, #23, #28, #30

PRC-68A; This later variant of the PRC-68 has the ability to operate on ten preset channels with 25kc channel spacing, in any sequence within any one of four selectable sub-bands, 30-40, 40-54, 50-64, 60-80mc. Channel presets are accomplished via internal programming. The radio has a slightly larger cabinet, but retains complete compatibility with previous model accessories. Ref.#28, #26, #30, #31

PRC-68B; Improvement of the PRC-68 that includes an external antenna load control, LCD frequency display, 2 watts RF output (adjustable), 2.5kc channel spacing with full band coverage, simplex or half duplex modes of operation, NBFM or WBFM options for each channel both on Tx and Rx. It's low band module is reported to be replaceable with another which will allow high band operation, but it is possible that reports are confused with that of the (V) variants. Original US Airforce cost $3084.50. Ref. #12, #28, #30, #31

PRC-68B (V) 1 and PRC-68B (V) 2; It appears that the (V) versions of the PRC-68B reflect a standard PRC-68B with a particular band module installed. I/E PRC-68 (V) 1 contains the lowband 30-80mc module, and PRC-68 (V) 2 contains the highband 130-174mc module.

PRC-68B (V) 2;This radio appears to be a variant of the PRC-68B, produced for the US Airforce at a cost of $3485.00. It is very similar to the PRC-126V, & may have been replaced by the PRC-128V. Ops 130-174mc, with an adjustable 1-2watts output. Size 3.8W x 1.52H x 9.32L inches, 3.125 lbs. NSN

5820-01-248-2852. Ref.#28

PRC-68 (X); Improvement of the PRC-68B that include external frequency selection in 25kc steps, use of 2 plug in depo repairable printed circuit cards. Production started 1984. Ref.#12

PRC-68 (X-2); Same as PRC-68 (X-4) except operation is 30-88mc.Ten preset channels that can be set for any frequency in the band with 12.5, 20, 25, 30,or 50kc spacing. In production 1984. Ref.#12

PRC-68(X-4); Adaptation of the PRC-68B that changes it's frequency coverage to 130-174mc by replacing the RF module. Other operational parameters are unchanged. In production 1984. Ref.#12

PRC-70/RT-1133; Backpack HF/VHF, AM/CW/USB/FSK/FM transceiver. Designed for use by US Special Forces in an attempt to provide communications with all available tactical radio types without the need to carry multiple sets. Ops on any frequency between 2-75.999mc with 100cps spacing (FM 30-76mc). RF Power output is 30 watts (USB/FM/CW/FSK), 7 .5 watts (AM). Requires 24vdc normally supplied by batteries BB-651, or BB-534, or power supply PP-6148.Size 4 x 13 x 12", 20lbs(less battery case), 39lbs (with battery). Ref.#9, #9A, #10, #11, #12

PRC-70 (ABN); Adaptation of the PRC-70 for aircraft use. Ref.#10

PRC-70 (V) 1; Improvements to the PRC-70 including DC voltage input protection, receiver RF overload protection, & a BNC 50 ohm antenna output connection that bypasses the antenna tuning network. These available from the manufacture (Cincinnati Electronics) as a field change modification kit. Ref.#12

PRC-70 (VT-100); Cincinnati Electronics designation for vehicular adaptation of the PRC-70. Ref.#10

PRC-71; Backpack multi transceiver set, HF/VHF/UHF, AM/FM/SSB. Intended for use by FAC's & other forward command applications in the communication with aircraft, ground & Naval forces. The PRC-71 is comprised of a four transceiver set, each is 100% solid state, & may be combined or operated individually with self contained batteries. Vehicular operation is also possible from the vehicles 24vdc source. RT-775 ops 240-350mc on four xtal control channels, with an RF power output of 1 watt. AM phone, MCW, or beacon modes. RT-776, ops 110-140mc on six xtal control channels, with an RF power output of 1.5 watts. AM phone, MCW or beacon modes. RT-777, ops 38-50mc on two xtal control channels, with an RF power output of 6 watts, FM phone, MCW, & beacon modes. RT-778 ops 4-20mc on 6 xtal control channels, with an RF power output of 10 watts. SSB/CW rec, CW transmit. NSN 5820-00-880-7114. Ref.#18, #26, #28, #29

PRC-72; Backpack multi transceiver set HF/VHF/UHF, SSB/AM/FM. This radio system is similar in purpose to the PRC-71. The set is comprised of four transceivers which can be operate individually with their self contained batteries, or all can be combined into a common pack frame. Ops 2-11.99mc on any of 10,000 synthesized frequencies spaced 1kc apart (RT-835), 38-50mc on any 6 xtal control channels (RT-836), 110-140mc on any 6 xtal control channels (RT-838), 240-350mc on any 4 xtal control channels (RT-837). RF output power; 10 watts SSB/CW, 5 watts MCW (RT-835). 6 watts, FM (RT-836). 1.5 watts, AM (RT-838). 1 watt, AM (RT-837). Requires 24vdc supplied by external DC source or 14.8v rechargeable nicad battery BB-618 (2ea for RT-835). Accessories include AS-1967 48"tape antenna for RT-836, AS-1968 23" tape antenna for RT-838, AS-1969 10"tape antenna forRT-837, AS-1970 108"whip antenna for RT-835 (this is a standard AT-271 less the 3/8 x 24 thread adapter), AS-1971 85'lonwire antenna for RT-835, CX-11691 repeater cable, 5ea BB-618 batteries, H-248 headset/microphone, CW-894 canvas accessories bag, CW-894 canvas carry bag for RT-836/837 or 838, ST-154 Rucksack (equipment mounting rack for 4 transceivers & accessories bag), CX-11559 remote operations cable, C-8050 remote control head. Sizes 5 x 8 x 10", 9.6lbs(RT-835), 3.3 x 5 x 7"(RT-836, 837,838), 3.6lbs (RT-836), 3.5lbs(RT-838), 3,8lbs(RT-837). Circa 1970. Ref.#16, #18, #23, #29, #30

PRC-73; Hand held VHF FM transceiver. Built by Repco for the US Navy with a unit cost of $753.00. The PRC-73 & others, was to be replaced by the PRC-94V1. Ops 132-174mc with 1.5 watts RF output. Requires 25vdc. NSN 5820-00-989-4705, no further information. Ref.#28

PRC-74/RT-794; Backpack HF, USB/CW transceiver. Intended to replace the TRC-77, GRC-9, GRC-109, & PRC-64 then in use with US Army Special Forces Teams. Ops 2-12mc on any of 10,000 synthesized frequencies, in 1kc steps, and provisions for fine tune. RF power output is 15 watts. Requires 10.5-17vdc supplied by 10ea rechargeable nicad batteries BB-458, or 70ea dry battery BA-70, or 2ea Batteries BA-386/PRC-25 or BA-4386/PRC-25, or BB-5598 lithium battery, or PP-4514 vehicular or fixed station audio amplifier/power supply & 24vdc or 110vac,other battery power supplies are also available. Size 15.5 x 3.75 x 12", 14.4lbs (less battery). Accessories include, AS-1887 center loaded whip antenna, AB-955 rubber spring antenna base support, MT-3613 antenna mounting bracket, H-189 handset, M-80 microphone, H-140 headphones, KY-562 telegraph key, CW-836 accessories bag, CY-4880 battery box (10ea BB-458 or 70ea BA-70), or CY-6121 battery box, or CY-7773 battery box (universal/dual battery, PRC-25/77 type, rechargeable), or CY-6314 battery box (dual PRC-25 type batteries, same as CY-7773 except not rechargeable), CX-11468 cable/CW key. Original cost $5560.00; all the PRC-74 series are to be replaced by the PRC-104. Ref.#9, #9A, #10, #11, #18, #23, #28, #29, #30

PRC-74A; Same as PRC-74 with the addition of code burst capability using GRA-71 keyer & CX-10239 cable, & replacement of panel markings (MC & KC with MHz & kHz) beginning with serial number 371, circa 1966.Original cost $7600.00.

PRC-74B; Same as PRC-74A except has the extended frequency range of 2-18mc. Circa 1967. Manufactured by Hughes Aircraft in the US, and by Rediffusion in the UK as the GR-345.

PRC-74C; Identical to the PRC-74B except for the front panel frequency markings being in MHZ/KHZ (megahertz/kilohertz) rather than MC/KC (megacycles/kilocycles), and certain ruggedization.

PRC-74T; Variant of the PRC-74B built by Tadiran in Israel. This model is identical to the US version with the exception of an added AME mode. The Basic RT unit can be combined with an amplifier/power unit (OA-7040T) & mounting MT-7400T to form the VRC-740T vehicular system. Ref.#10, #11

PRC-74 (?); Two other variants of the PRC-74 have been reported to exist. These both include 2-30mc coverage, but in different manors. #1. Is of U.S. origin & is a Depo modification of a standard PRC-74 which includes an outboard conversion along with internal modifications. #2. Is of Israeli origin, with all modifications being internal. Ref.#31

PRC-75/RT-976; Handheld UHF, AM transceiver. Intended purpose similar to that of the PRC-66. Operates 225-399.9mc one of 3500 front panel, settable channels (three each thumb operated dials). AM/MCW with an output power of 1 watt. Requires 18-30vdc. Accessories include AS-2447 14.6" tape antenna, UG-1884 BNC antenna adapter, CX-12162 DC/Audio cable, LS-549 loud speaker, CY-6472, CY-6729, ST-162, also various vehicular installation equipment. Size 1.6 x 4.3 x 8", 6lbs. Original cost $7277.00. Ref.#13(WS-91), #28,31

PRC-75A; The difference between this, & the earlier model are unknown. The PRC-75A is however known to have been used by the US Navy & Marine Corps, with an original cost of $6309.68. Ref.#28

PRC-76; Portable radio set that provides two-way communications with any other FM radio set operating between 70-80mc. With 1w RF output. No further information. Ref.#29A Additional information was supplied in a late 60's edition of "Electronics", a McGraw-Hill publication: AF project 407L, 30-76 single channel, crystal control, 1 Watt. No further information.

PRC-77/RT-841; Backpack VHF, FM transceiver. Developed as replacement for the PRC-25. The PRC-77 is physically identical to the PRC-25 & uses all common accessories along with many other common components. Electronically the only difference is the replacement of the PRC-25's output tube and circuitry with transistors, resulting in a 100% solid state radio Additionally, the audio bandwidth has been widened to allow operation with secure voice equipment. For operational parameters & accessories, see PRC-25. Ref.#9,#9A,#10,#11,#12,#18,#30

PRC-77/GY/RT-841; Non US version of US PRC-77.Built by Telemit in Germany, this radio was introduced in 1971, & uses a new synthesizer & updated technology. As with the US PRC-77. Known ancillary equipment include (these part of the COM-80/GY series), PP-770 50 watt vehicular RF power amplifier, AM-88 vehicular audio amplifier/adapter (similar to the US AM-2060), & a converter to allow operation of this equipment from 12vdc versus 24vdc. All other operational parameters are the same as the US PRC-77. Ref. #12

PRC-77A/GY; Non US version of US PRC-77. Same as PRC-77/GY with new CMOS circuit design, & a digital synthesizer. Entered production in 1984.Ref.#12

PRC-77C/GY; Non US version of US PRC-77. Further improvement of the PRC-77A/GY includes built in voice encryption with front panel code selection, & provisions for 25 or 50kc channel spacing. Ref.#12

PRC-78 (GY)/RT-7800; Non US, Backpack or vehicular, VHF, FM transceiver. Manufactured by Telemit in Germany. Introduced 1978, it is in use by the DDR & other armed forces. Ops 69.275 77.655mc (lowband) & 79.075 to 87.455mc (highband) providing a maximum of 820 channels (simplex) or 420 (duplex) spaced 20kc apart, frequency readout is via a front panel LED display. RF power output is a selectable 3 or 10 watts. Ref.#10,#11

PRC-80S/RT-3088; Non-US. Back-pack or vehicular, VHF FM transceiver. Built in Israel by Tadiran, the PRC-80S is part of the VHF-88S series of radio equipment. Ops 30-87.975mc in 25kc steps plus 5 or 10kc offsets above or below the channel frequency. RF power output is a selectable .25 or 4 watts. Requires 12vdc from internal dry or rechargeable batteries, or external 24vdc vehicular source with proper equipment. Size 260mmH x 250mmW x 80mmD, 7.2kg (basic backpack version with nicad battery), 260mmH x 320mmW x 80mmD, 9.1kg (full complement manpack with nicad battery). Known accessories include common antenna & audio equipment with existing radios, AU-4088 audio unit/battery holder, AT-888 short tape antenna, AT-288 portable long range antenna, ASU-80 Comsec/ECCOM unit, SEC-8088 digital encryption device, KGL-8000 comsec key loader, AU-6088 vehicular audio unit, MT-7088 vehicular mount (for use when optional comsec units included), MT-7188 vehicular mount (for use with basic PRC-80S, VRC-800S, or VRC-8000S), AM-5088 50 watt Vehicular amplifier (VRC- 8000S), C-8842 vehicular remote control/channel selector, AS-1288(long) or AS-1188(short) vehicular antennas. Ref.#12

PRC-81; Original US Navy cost $1150.00, NSN 5820-00-6157. No further information. Ref. #28

PRC-82; Combination of PRC-83, PRC-84, PRC-85, PRC-86. System provides communication 2-400mc in manpack portable or vehicular configuration. Units are mounted in a vehicular adapter that provides voltage switching, battery charging, & small item accessory storage (size 14"H x 9"W x 23"L) requires 12vdc. Ref.#29

PRC-83; See also PRC-82, Portable HF, SSB transceiver. Used as part of PRC-82 or possibly as stand-alone radio. Ops 1-12mc in 1KC steps, with an output power of 12 watts. No further information. Ref.#29

PRC-84; See also PRC-82, Portable VHF FM transceiver. Used as part of PRC-82 or possibly as stand-alone radio. Ops 30-76mc, channel spacing 50kc apart providing a possible 2320 channels, frequency agile with code store. An output power of 6 watts (alternately 2.5 watts has been reported). No further information. Ref.#29

PRC-85; See also PRC-82, Portable VHF AM transceiver. Used as part of the PRC-82, or as a stand-alone radio. Ops 110-150mc, channel spacing 25kc apart, with an output power of 2 watts. Original US Airforce cost $5000, NSN 5820-00-008-6474, no further information. Ref.#28,#29

KAN/PRC-85K; Non US, handheld HF FM transceiver. Built in the Korean Republic, by Oriental Precision Co., there seems to be a second version (or the same radio) built by Gould Star Electric. This second version omits the KAN prefix, but has the same specifications. The radio is similar in concept to the US PRC-68; it provides 10 preset channels 25-30.5mc spaced 25 or 100kc apart, for a maximum 221 possible. Ops from 12vdc, uses either a tape or helical antenna, & has provision for the use of external audio accessories (speaker/mic). Size 600mm x 350mm x 140mm, 600grm. Ref.#12

PRC-86; See also PRC-82, Portable UHF AM transceiver. Used as part of PRC-82, or possibly as a stand-alone radio. Ops 225-400mc, chan spacing 50kc, with an output power of 2 watts. No further information. Ref.#29

PRC-87; Para-Rescue radio, VOX operated. Helmet or vest, worn. Under development circa 1971. Ref. late 60's edition of "Electronics", (a McGraw-Hill publication). No further information.

PRC-88; Handheld VHF FM transceiver. Developed for the US Marine Corps out of dissatisfaction with the Army's combination PRT-4 & PRR-9 radio set, which was intended (in part) to replace the PRC-6, circa 1964. Three conflicting physical descriptions exist from both official & non-official but informed sources.

#1,The PRC-88 is a repackaged PRT-4 & PRR-9 radio set into a single common handheld cabinet, Ref.#14, #26.

#2,The PRC-88 is simply the possession of both the PRT-4 & PRR-9, (normally a PRR-9 would be issued to each member of a squad, while only the squad leader was issued both the PRR-9 & PRT-4).

#3, The PRC-88 never existed in physical form, but only on paper.

Ops 47-54mc, on one xtal control channel (2 chan on transmitter), with a RF power output of 450mw. Requires 5v(rec), 12-15v(trans). I/E the operational parameters are the same as for the PRT-4 & PRR-9. Ref.#14, #26, various PRC-25/77, PRT-4 & PRR-9 manuals.

PRC-88/GY/RF-880; Non US backpack VHF FM transceiver. Built in Germany by Telemit, & is advertised as the successor to the PRC-77. The basic RT unit can be combined with various other equipment to provide fixed station & vehicular operation. The COM-88/GY is one of these combinations, intended for use in armored vehicles & personnel carriers. It includes the OA-88 vehicular amplifier/adapter & an AT-88 antenna. The AM-88 can also be included for a 40 watt RF output power. Ops 20-80mc with 2400 channels spaced 25 or 50kc apart. RF output is rated at 3 watts. Size 238mm X 296mm x 304mm, 3.2kg. Introduced 1979, production began in mid 1980. Ref.#11,#12

PRC-89; Handheld VHF/FM transceiver. Built by Zenith Radio Corp. for use by the U.S. Coast Guard. Intended for operation on the International VHF Marine band. Ops 156-158mc on any of four crystal control channels with the following frequencies supplied: Ch.16 (156.8mc), Ch.21c (157.05mc), Ch.22c (157.10mc), Ch.23c (157.1mc). Rated RF output power is 4 watts derived from an internal 12.5 volt mercury battery. Audio output is rated at 500mw. Size 8.75"H x 3.5"W x 2"D, 3.9lbs. Color, gray enamel. System Components include: RT unit, Battery box, leather carry case and shoulder strap. Ref.#30

PRC-90; Handheld UHF, AM/MCW/Beacon transceiver. Developed as a replacement for The PRC-63 (and others). For use by downed aircrew members. Ops on 243mc AM/MCW/Beacon or 282.8mc voice only, with an output power of 500mw. Requires 14v as supplied by BA-1568 battery. Size 6"H x 3 1/8"H x 1 1/2" T, 22oz. (24oz.with battery). Numerous variations of the PRC-90 exist; these include PRC-90-1, PRC-90-2, PRC-90-2C, PRC-90-2T, & PRC-90T. Other than the original manufacturer, & federal stock numbers, it is unknown what the differences between these models are. Ref.#9, #9A, #10, #11, #12, #28

PRC-90-1; Built by ACR versus GTE, NSN 5820-01-158-6082. Ops from 9.5-14vdc, uses BA-1568 battery, 1.6 lbs. Known US Navy, Army & Airforce use, original cost $600.00. Ref.#28

PRC-90-2; Same as PRC-90-1, NSN 5820-01-238-6603, original cost $383-$400. Ref.#28

PRC-90-2C; Noted as having variable frequency capacity. NSN 5820-01-338-3036. Original US Airforce cost $284.00. Ref.#28

PRC-90-2T; Same as PRC-90-2C. Ref.#28

PRC-90T; Supplied on one frequency between 251.9 & 236mc, & with a second alternate frequency. US Airforce cost $545.90, NSN 5820-00-469-5658. Ref.#28

PRC-91; Handheld VHF FM transceiver. Resembles small narrow BC-611. Haze gray in color, & is constructed of high impact plastic. Known US Navy use. No further information. Ref.#27

PRC-91A/RT-291A;bHandheld VHF FM transceiver. Adoption of a commercial Repco model series 10-8 (810-009-010) for general-purpose non-tactical communications. Ops 132-150.8mc, on one (optionally four) xtal control frequency, with an RF power output of 2 watts (optionally 4 watts). Requires 12-15v provided by a variety of optional battery combinations that could be slid onto the bottom of the RT unit. As issued, the radio has a combination battery box/charger that uses a nicad battery similar to that of a Motorola HT-200. Size 5 1/2"H x 3 1/4"W x 1 3/4"T( less battery box), 10 1/2"tall (with battery). Accessories include telescoping 1/4 wave antenna, CY-6502 leather carry case. The PRC-91A as with other equipment of this type & vintage, were to be replaced by the PRC-94V1. Original US Navy cost $1060.00. NSN 5820-922-2858, circa 1968. Ref.#23,#28

PRC-91/RT-918; Hand held VHF FM transceiver. Adoption of the commercial Motorola model HT-200 (Z23DEN1100A) Handie Talkie. Ops 132-150mc on one (optionally two) xtal control channels. RF power output is rated at 1.4 watts. Requires 14vdc as supplied by a special internal dry or nicad battery. Accessories include ZAD6060A, ZNK6009A, ZLN6116A, ZSN6002A. To be replaced by the PRC-94V1, the original US Navy cost was $2840.00. NSN5820-00-889-7556. Circa 1965. Ref.#28

PRC-93; Handheld UHF AM transceiver. Intended for use by Air-Sea Rescue units in the location & extraction of downed aircrew members. It is believed that this radio is a modification of the ACR RT-10 to provide two channel operation on 243 & ?mc, AM with an output power of 200mw. No further information. Ref.#26

PRC-94V; Handheld VHF,FM transceiver. Adoption of the commercial Comco model series 802( Repco 10-8). It has very similar cosmetics & electronics to the PRC-91A,with the added provision for an external speaker/mic. Ops 150-174mc, xtal control, with an optional capacity of up to 5 channels. RF power output is 2.2 watts (standard), 4 watts(optional). Coast Guard Sets are 2.2 watt with provisions for low power operation (1 watt). Requires 12-15v normally supplied by a detachable nicad battery, an "AA" battery box can also be used. Accessories include telescoping 1/4 wave or 6" rubber antennas, speaker-mic, leather carry case, desktop or vehicular chargers. Circa 1975-1985. Ref.#11, #23, #28

PRC-94V1; The commercial equivalents for this PRC-94 variant are COMCO 810-156-01, & RCA 8TNIH11R. Ops 132-150.8mc, with one Xtal control channel, & an output power of 2.2 watts. It was factory supplied with rechargeable nicad batteries. For other possible variants see PRC-94. Original US Navy & Marine Corps cost $1210.00.NSN 5820-01-012-2770. Ref.#28,#30

PRC-94V2; The commercial equivalent for this PRC-94 variant is the RCA 8TN2H44SMF or 8TN2H44SMZ. Ops 150.8-162mc, with four xtal control channels, & an output power of 2.2 watts. For other possible parameters see PRC-94. Original US Navy & Marine Corps cost $935-$1240.00. NSN 5820-00-110-5722. Ref.#28,#30

PRC-94V3; The commercial equivalents for this PRC-94 variant are COMCO 810-156-01, & RCA 8TN1H44S. Ops 132-150.6mc, with four xtal control channels, & an output power of 2.2 watts. For other possible parameters see PRC-94. Original US Navy & Dept of Defense cost $1790.00. NSN 5820-01-012-2771. Ref.#28,#30

PRC-95; Hand held UHF/AM transceiver. Designed for use by downed aircrew as a possible replacement for the PRC-90. Features two-channel operation on 243 and 282.8mc, from a lithium battery supplying 18 hours of battery life. Said to be the first use of this type battery. Ref. Electronic Design, August 2, 1966. Electronics, November, 1970, the Vietnam Report Part II. No further information.

PRC-96; Shipboard or lifeboat emergency AM, Beacon transceiver. Designed for use by distressed Naval personnel to effect their rescue. Ops on 121.5 & 243mc, AM voice/MCW/Beacon, with an RF power output of 200mw, from internal lithium batteries(2ea 2.9v). Size 13.5 x 10 x 4", 7lbs 8oz(case), 6 x 4 x

2",3lbs 8oz (transceiver), 7.75"(antenna). TS-3527 dual channel accessory test set checks transmit, receive, & battery condition. Ref.#11,#12

PRC-97; Handheld VHF,FM transceiver. Adoption of the commercial Motorola model H21DCN-1100ASPO2 (SPS1B11648). Ops 30-42mc, 1 channel, with an output power of 1.4 watts from 14vdc internal battery. NSN 5820-00-179-8433. Original US Navy cost $819.90. No further information. Ref.#28

PRC-99; Backpack VHF FM transceiver. Designed as a replacement for the PRC-77. Features digital synthesis with four place bush-button tuning, 25kc channel spacing, & common accessories with the PRC-25 & 77, but with smaller size & weight. Ops 30-80mc, with a possible 2000 channels. Rated output power is 2 watts. DC power is derived from 12ea "D" cell batteries or rechargeable nicad pack. Manufactured by Liberty Electronics NY. Ref.#11

PRC-101; Hand held VHF FM transceiver. Adaptation of the commercial Motorola HT-220 (H23FFN1102ASP2) for general-purpose communications. It appears the PRC-101 was supplied with 2 watts output, one channel, & carrier squelch. Original US Navy cost $2150.00, NSN 5820-00-409-4213. Ref.#28,#30

PRC-103; Belt worn or handheld UHF AM transceiver. Designed for para-rescue, medical airman, & rescue aircraft. Ops 243 & 282.5mc (others optional), on one of two xtal control channels, with an RF power output of 100mw. Requires 14vdc/110ma supplied by BA-1568 mercury battery. Size 6 x 3.1 x 1.4",25oz (RT unit), 24" (antenna). Introduced with US Air Force circa 1976. Original cost $642.00, NSN 5820-01-273-1989. Ref.#10,#11,#12,#28

PRC-104, RT-1209/URC; Backpack or vehicular, HF SSB/CW transceiver. Conceived as a replacement for the PRC-74, & in part the PRC-47, approx 1976. Ops 2-30mc in 100cps steps, for a possible 280,000 frequencies. RF power output is rated at 20 watts USB/LSB. Requires 12.5v derived from internal (7ah batteries) or external source. Size 2 5/8"h x 12"w x 10 1/5"d, 19.8lbs (with battery box, handset & whip antenna). Known accessories include AS-2259 (transportable antenna)(AT-271 can be used for backpack portable operation), AT-129 whip spring base, AM-6874 amplifier/antenna coupler, CY-8291 transit case, H-250 or H-189 handset, CY-7541 battery box, KY-872 CW Key, KG-65 secure device AM-7152 audio amplifier/24v power supply (part of GRC-213), AM-6879/URC audio/RF amplifier/power supply/FSK converter (MRC-138 or GRC-193), MT-2154 & MT-623 (part of GRC-213). NSN 5920-01-027-9071. Ref.#9A,#10,#11,#12,#28,#29,#30

PRC-104A; Unknown difference. NSN 5820-01-141-7953. Original cost $12,500. Ref.#28

PRC-104B(V)1; Unknown difference. NSN 5820-01-269-5603. Original cost $14,600- $17,200. Ref.#28

PRC-104B(V)2 ;Unknown difference. NSN 5820-01-269-5504. Original cost $22,000. Ref.#28

PRC-104B(V)3; Unknown difference. NSN 5820-01-269-5556. Original cost $12,000. Ref.#28

PRC-104B(V)4; Unknown difference. NSN 5820-01-262-9550. Original cost $12,000. Ref.#28

PRC-105; Manpack adaptation of the PRC-104. Provides for two-man pack-carry of PRC-104 with the addition of a 100 watt amplifier. Ref.#10

PRC-106; Handheld VHF/UHF AM/Beacon transceiver. Designed as a survival radio for downed aircrew, it is a two band PRC-90. It provides voice & beacon operation on either civil or military guard channels. Ops 121.5 or 243mc, with one of two xtal control channel/bands, with an RF output of 100mw (600mw ?). Requires 14v/100ma (trans), 50ma (rec), supplied by mercury battery. Size 6 x 3.1 x 1.4", 24oz (radio with battery), 23.5"(antenna). Original cost $3180.93, NSN 5820-01-156-5709. Ref.#11, #12,#28

PRC-108; Backpack/portable HF,AM/USB transceiver. Built by Sunair (commercial model number PRC 20/6), & known to have been used at least by the US Coast Guard circa 1971. Ops 2-12mc on any of six xtal control channels. RF output is rated at 25 watts USB (CW & LSB supplied as an option, USB & AM are standard). Requires 12v/2amps (trans), 200ma(rec with signal), supplied by internal 7ah nicad, or 8ah lead acid rechargeable batteries. Size 11.5"h x 13"w x 4.4"d, 16lbs (radio), 4.7"h x 4.4"d x 13"w, 4.2lbs( battery box less battery). Accessories include collapsible whip antenna (AT-271 can be used), side mounted spring loaded whip antenna base, H-189 or equivalent handset, nylon carry case, metal pack frame, battery charger 110/220vac, mobile mount rack, remote manually switched antenna coupler, battery box. Original cost $905.47, NSN 5820-00-007-4122. Ref.#23,#28,#30

NO/PRC-111; Back-pack, vehicular HF, SSB transceiver. The PRC-111 is built in Norway by A/S Mikro-Elektronikk. Features voice/telegraphy/ & data operation, six push-button frequency selection. Built in manual single control tuner matches whip, long-wire or dipole antennas. Ops 1.5-30mc in 100cps steps, with an RF power output of 25 watts. Size 140mm x 300mm x 180mm, 8.8kg (with battery). Known accessories include AM-100N vehicular amplifier/mount, AS-112N vehicular antenna, CU-100N vehicular antenna tuner (NO/GRC-112), 100 & 400 watt RF amplifiers. Ref.#11,#12

PRC-112(V); Handheld VHF/UHF AM/Beacon transceiver. Adapted as a replacement for the PRC-90, it provides downed aircrew & rescue personnel with several advantages over that model. Including both VHF & UHF operation, higher output power, smaller size, & synthesized multi channel UHF operation. Ops 121.5mc & up to 4 channels in the 225-299.975mc range (2999 channels spaced 25kc apart). RF power output is rated 1 watt (UHF), & 100mw( VHF). Size 152mm H x 76mm W x 38mm D, 0.8kg (with battery). Original cost $1520-$1984, NSN 5820-01-279-5450. Ref.#12,#28

PRC-112A; Unknown difference. NSN 5820-01-280-2117, original US Army & Navy cost $2060.00. Ref.#28

PRC-112B; Unknown difference. NSN 5820-02-41708752, original US Army cost $6000.00. Ref.#28

PRC-113/RT-1319; Backpack VHF/UHF AM transceiver. Developed as part of the Pacer Speak program for the three US services, it is compatible with Vinson COMSEC systems. Ops 116-149.975mc AM (FM on request), in 25kc steps, for a possible 1360 channels (8 channels presettable), and 225-399.975mc AM (FM optional), in 25kc steps for a possible 7000 channels (8 channels presettable). RF power output is a selectable 2 watts (low) or 10 watts (high). Requires BA-5590 (lithium battery) or BB-590(rechargeable nicad battery). Ref.#12,#29

PRC-113-3; Or KLPRC-6608,or MXF-709. These appear to be variants of the standard US PRC-113, however as supplied by other sources. The KLPRC-6608 is built in the Netherlands by MVDKL & is known to have been purchased by the US Navy. NSN 5820-01-393-5940. Ref.#28

PRC-113(V); It is unknown the differences between this version & other PRC- 113's. It is listed as having 8 presettable & one 243mc guard channels, ECCOM & Comsec compatible. Size 9.2W x 3H x 10.38"W8.4Kg. US Airforce cost $14,717.00, NSN 5820-01-388-7352. Ref.#28

PRC-113(V)1; Unknown differences between this & other versions of the PRC-113. It is listed as capable of both A3 & A2 operation, with a size of 13.1L x 3H x 10.38W, 1.5lbs. Original US Navy & Airforce cost

$5410-$10,613, NSN 5820-01-108-8839. Ref.#28

PRC-113(V-3);The difference between this & other models of the PRC-113 is unknown. Two different descriptions of the equipment are presented by the reference.

#1.NSN 5820-01-136-1519, 56 watts, 18.5lbs, includes anti-jamming & secure voice operation, as of 01/05/90. US Navy, Airforce, & Marine Corps

cost $16,769.00.

#2.NSN 5820-01-291-5416,enhanced ECCOM capability with expanded frequency hopsets. Multiple Words-of-Day (MWOD), Operational Time of Day (TOD) message, & erase capability. Ref.#28

PRC-114 Handheld UHF transceiver. The PRC-114 is part of the US Navy's SRC-47 inter-ship (Man On The Move) communications system. Various accessories allow it to be used belt worn, handheld, or in a vehicular configuration. Ops 340-390mc on any 4 preset channels out of 500 synthesized frequencies, simplex or half duplex. RF power output is a selectable 5mw, 100mw, or 1 watt. Known accessories include: AM-7103 vehicular amplifier/charger, PP-7658 battery charger, PP-7988 multi battery charger, & TS-1415 test set. Ref.#12

PRC-116; Backpack VHF,ECCOM,FM transceiver. PRC-116 is the US nomenclature for the British (Racal-Tacticom) designed & built Jaguar V transceiver. Ops 30-88mc in 25kc steps, with 9 hop bands (ea 6.4mc wide), or full band (58mc). 8 channels can be preset for frequency & mode. RF power output is a selectable 10mw or 5 watts, from 12vdc internal batteries. Size 90mmH x 230mmW x 275mmD, 7.5kg (with battery). Deliveries starting in 1981, the Jaguar V is now in use by a number of countries. Original cost $8260.00, NSN 5820-01-221-3440. Ref.#12,#28

PRC-117; Backpack, VHF FM ECCOM transceiver. The PRC-117 is a microprocessor controlled full-band random frequency hopping radio set designed for use in electronic warfare environments. Ops 30-89.975mc in 25kc steps with 8 preset channels. RF power output is a selectable 1 or 10 watts (.1 or 10 watts optional). Requires 12v supplied by internal rechargeable nicad batteries. Size 76mmH x 200mmW x 280mmD, 5.8kg. Operable with Comsec equipment TSEC/KY-57 using J-3987A/PRC-117 interface unit. Introduced 1982 by Harris Corp. The PRC-117 is believed to be in use by US forces. Ref.#12,#31

PRC-117A; Same as the PRC-117 with the added ability to use the TSEC/KY-57 for secure voice operation, and expanded full-band hopping(30-88mc). Requires J-3987A/PRC-117 interface unit. It has also been reported that the PRC-117A is the result of re-labeling the standard PRC-117 when the PRC-117B was developed. Ref.#12,#31

PRC-117B; Same as the PRC-117A with the addition of full band frequency hopping range. Re-designed front panel includes a dot-matrix LED display, and an added COMSEC control knob. It is in use with the US Government (NSN 5820-01-363-7575), cost varies between $5,140-$14,140. Ref.#28,#31

PRC-117C; Same as the PRC-117B, but incorporates imbedded VINSON compatible COMSEC. It is in use with the US Government (NSN 5820-01-366-0775). Ref.#28, #31

PRC-117D; Same as the PRC-117B/C with an added multi band and mode capability. Features include voice/data modes, UHF TACSAT & SATCOM operation, key management, Frequency hopping ECCM, and an optional jerk & run vehicular mount (VRC-94). Ops 30-90mc FM, 116-174 mc AM with optional FM, 225mc-425mc AM. Channel spacing is band dependent & includes 5, 6.25, & 25kc spacing. RF power output is rated at various levels including 24.5 watts PEP AM, 4 or 20 watts AM Satcom. Introduced in 1991 by Harris Corp, the PRC-117D is known to be in use by US forces. Ref.#28,#12B

PRC-117D(C); Same as the PRC-117D with the addition of embedded VINSON compatible COMSEC. A Naval 1996 contract was let with Harris Corp in the amount of $9,331,580 for the procurement and upgrade of the PRC-117 multi-mission tactical manpack system, with a suspected contract completion

date of Sept.1999. Ref.#12B

PRC-117D(E); Export version of the PRC-117D. Suspect this set to be less COMSEC agile. Ref.12B

PRC-118; Portable/vehicular packet transceiver. The PRC-118 can use CSMA or DOD standard TCP/1P protocols, MSK spread spectrum, at a rate of up to 400KB. Ops L band with a selectable 20 channels. RF power output is adjustable up to 5 watts. MT-1898 is used for vehicular installations. In production since 1986. Ref.#12

PRC-119/RT-1439; Backpack VHF,FM,ECCOM Sincgars transceiver. The PRC-119 family of equipment were designed as rugged, light weight, radios for Infantry, fighting vehicles, or aircraft, & to provide a high degree of security against enemy jamming & intercept operations. Intended to replace the PRC-25/77, VRC-12, & many other VRC, GRC, & ARC equipments. Ops 30-88mc with a possible 2320 channels. RF output power is an adjustable 500uw, 160mw, or 5 watts. Requires 13.5v as supplied by numerous sources. Size 8.5cmH x 23.7cmW x 33.6cmD, 8.3kg (with battery). Ref.#9A,#12,#30,#31 PRC-119A;Same as the PRC-119 but with the added built in VINSON compatible COMSEC module referred to as ICOM version (integrated COMSEC). Added front panel controls include encryption selector switch, battery cover for hold up battery(HUB). Can use AS-3900 or AS-3916 for vehicular operation. Ref.#12A

PRC-123V1; A description of this equipment has not been found. NSN 5820-01-200-1706. No further information. Ref.#28

PRC-123V2; HF SSB/AM/CW manpack transceiver. Features keyboard frequency entry, internal nicad battery or external power supply options, an optional automatic antenna tuner, vehicular configurations & remote control capabilities. Ops 2-30mc with 100cps channel spacing for a possible 280,000 channels. RF power output is rated at a selectable 2.5, 10 or 20 watts. Size 80mmh x 210mmw x 226mmd, 4.5kg. Built by Gould Inc. Navcom Systems Div. NSN 5820-01-201-1065, US Navy cost $10,000. Ref.#28,#12A

PRC-124; Backpack VHF/FM voice & data transceiver. Developed by Rockwell Collins (as the MP-83) as a replacement for the PRC-77. Ops 30-88mc with a selectable RF power output of .25 or 5 watts from 12vdc. Size 100mmh x 280mmd x 280mmw, 4.5kg. It is possible the PRC-124 has been licensed or

sold to Transworld for release as the PRC-1088. Ref.#12A

PRC-125; Life Vest worn UHF/AM transceiver. Developed for the U.S. Navy circa 1990. Intended for use by downed aircrew in the process of rescue operations. The PRC-125 is a totally watertight, two piece design composed of a control and R/T unit connected via a 36" umbilical cable. The control unit houses a combination speaker/mic, controls for PTT, volume, and connections for the antenna and earphone. The R/T unit has controls for channel selection, beacon mode, power on/off, and houses the systems battery. A pouch is provided on the umbilical cable for earphone storage. In operation, the R/T unit is contained in a special pouch at the front lower area of the life vest. The control unit is secured to the right breast area of the life vest via hook/loop fasteners (Velcro). A flexible rubber antenna is mounted on top the control unit. Features include: Two piece radio design allows normal operation with R/T unit submerged. Large speaker size and increased audio output to allow use in the high noise environment of helicopter rotor wash. Specially designed for operation from survival vest without being removed. Two channel capacity. Rec-Trans switching accomplished by internal magnetic reed switches. Ops on two channels (282.8 & 243mc). AM phone or beacon (243mc only) modes. Range: .5nm swimmer to swimmer, 5nm swimmer to aircraft at 100ft, 9nm swimmer to aircraft at 500ft, 12nm swimmer to aircraft at 1000ft, and 30nm swimmer to aircraft at 5000ft. System components include: Unit Control pn.1880AS101-01, Assembly Radio Receiver/Transmitter pn.1880AS109-01, Antenna pn.1880AS118-01, Battery Dry BA-1568, Earphone (same as used with PRC-90 and others), Life Vest LPU-28/P, Manual NAVAIR 16-35PRC125-1. Some reference materials have publication dates of Dec.1990, 1992, and 1993. Ref.#30

PRC-126/RT-1547; Handheld VHF FM transceiver. The PRC-126 represents the latest development in the PRC-68 family of radio equipment. As such it is very similar in concept, appearance & use to the PRC-68 types, and is functionally interchangeable. Ops 30-88mc (25kc standard or special order

Channel spacing), operates from 12vdc, with an RF power output of 1 watt (1.5-2 watts typical). 100mw into 47ohms audio output. Size 10L x 3.8w x 1.5"d,2.6lbs(with BA-5588). Accessories include; BA-588 (nicad battery), BA-1588 (mercury battery), BA-5588 (lithium battery). Antenna types, Long tape(36" for 2 mile range), Short helical rubber (7" for .3 mile range),5 0ohm output connector/adapter also available. AM-7302/VRC-96 allows vehicular installation of the PRC-126 with 15 watt RF amplification, audio amplifier, & 11-32vdc operation, battery charging, variants available for 130-174mc operation, size 5w x 4.9h x 13.1"d. MXF-326 vehicular installation unit allows "jerk & run" operation of the radio, input voltages of 11-32vdc, built in loud speaker & audio amplification, TACFIRE interface, VIC-1 vehicle intercom interface, size 12.3w x 13.3h x 4.9"d. MXF-327 allows dual radio vehicular installation using a single antenna & combines those features of the MXF-326 with 15 watts RF amplification, size 11.4w x 12.9h x 13.2"d. Original cost $2,283, NSN 5820-01-215-6181. Ref.#12,#28,#31, manufacturers promotional literature.

NOTE:

You may have begun to notice that there are an increasing number of PRC types of Non-U.S. origins. These are included in this series, and the book for several reasons.

#1, They often turn up in the U.S. and elsewhere as war trophies, and via several other avenues.

#2, This material was intended to be of use to persons the world over, and not only those in the United States.

#3, Most important, the researcher is often confused over the inability to fill in the holes between known and unknown model numbers.

This frustration is compounded by the fact that within the last 25 years, most nations have adopted the standard U.S. AN type model numbering system. It follows that there has been some considerable cooperation between these various countries in the sequence of numbers they have assigned to their equipment. This so as to minimize any future possible confusion between military groups. This cooperation will become apparent as you reed on, there are very few instances where a model number is

duplicated by any two countries for unlike equipment. So, if the researcher is confused with the fact that U.S. model numbers jump from say PRC-25 to PRC-27 and nothing can be found to fill the gap, it's because Canada used this number with the CPRC-26 so the U.S. skipped it to avoid confusion. This will become more evident as we progress into the more modern radio sets. If at any time you would like more details on a selected radio, just ask and I'll send you everything I have. Should you have knowledge

of a radio not included in this series, or have additional information about one that is(especially if it's description is followed by "no further information"), please let me know.

PRC-127/RT-1594; Handheld VHF FM transceiver. This equipment is a slightly modified Bendix King commercial business band radio. These modifications include a 2.5 watt RF output versus 5 watts, and the omission of the scan switch. Ops on any of 14 preset channels 136-160mc. RF power output is rated 2.5 watts. Requires 12vdc as supplied by either rechargeable nicad battery packs (two ea provided), or a battery box containing 8ea "AA" alkaline batteries. Size 7.8 x 2.5 x 1.52", 1.5lbs(with battery). Accessories include AS-3960 helical rubber antenna, speaker/mic & nylon case/cover, nylon carry holster, dual rate automatic drop-in battery charger, 2ea nicad battery packs & 1ea alkaline battery pack. Original cost $910.00, NSN 5820-01-266-5964. Ref.#26,#28,#30,#31

PRC-128(V); Hand held VHF/FM two band transceiver, built by Magnavox under the Scope Shield program. Ops 30-87.988mc, & 130-173.988mc (with module swap), with an RF power output of 1 watt, from 15vdc. The OF-185/PRC allows vehicular use. Original cost $3,093.00, NSN 5820-01-288-0626. Ref.#28

PRC-129; Hand held VHF FM transceiver. Adaptation of the commercial Repco model RPX-150. Most likely intended for general purpose communications. The following is a description of the RPX-150. Original cost $1946.00, NSN 5820-01-225. Ref.#23,#28,#30

PRC-130; Backpack HF AM/SSB/CW transceiver. The PRC-130 is said to be the adaptation of the Southcom SC-140 radio set. Assuming this information is correct, the following is a description of that equipment. Ops 2-30mc in 100cps steps for a possible 280,000 channels (9 programmable). RF power output is a selectable 5 or 20 watts. Can operate AM,CW,FSK,LSB,USB, & optional ECCOM modes. Requires 12vdc from equipment's batteries or external/vehicular source. Size 89mmH x 229mmW x 220mmD, 3.3kg(less battery). Ref.#12,#31

PRC-132; Backpack HF VHF transceiver. Small lightweight tactical Radio with a rated output power of 50 watts from 10-16vdc. Weight 16.1lbs. Radio has three extra internal card slots for encryption & or Data modem. No further information. Ref.#28

PRC-133; backpack or vehicular (GRC-233), HF, AM/CW/LSB/USB transceiver. Ops 2-30mc from 12vdc source (24vdc GRC-233). No further information. Ref.#28

PRC-134 & PRC-135; It is possible that these were developmental models that did not survive and lost in competition to the Racal PRC-139.

PRC-134(V)5©; Hand-held VHF FM Scope Shield II transceiver. Capable of secure & non-secure voice operation. Radio is compatible with the PRC-77, 68, 128, Sincgars (single frequency mode), & NSA Comsec. Ops 30-88mc with an RF output power of .5watt(low) or 2watts(high). Requires 10vdc as supplied by either rechargeable or dry batteries. Size 9.06"L x 2.95"W x 1.7"H, 3.3lbs. NSN 5820-01-349-9173. No further information. Ref.#28

PRC-134(V)6(C); Hand-held VHF FM transceiver. Identical to PRC-134(V)5(C) except for frequency range (136-174mc). NSN 5820-01-351-4531. No further information. Ref.#28

 

PRC-134(V)7(C); Hand-held UHF FM transceiver. Identical to PRC-134(V)5(C) except for frequency range (403-470mc). NSN 5820-01-349-9171. No further information. Ref.#28

PRC-135(V)1/RT-1675(V); Hand-held VHF FM Scope Shield II transceiver. Except for a slight deference in size, & most probably the original manufacturer , this radio appears to be the functional equivalent to the PRC-134(V)5©. Ops 30-88mc on 10 preset channels. RF power output is a selectable .5 or 2 watts. Requires 11-16vdc from self contained rechargeable or dry battery. Size 10.88"L x 4.32"W x 1.9"H, 3.93lbs. NSN 5820-01-351-6278. No further information. Ref.#28

PRC-135(V)2©; Hand-held VHF FM transceiver. Identical to the PRC-135(V)1(C) except for frequency range (136-174mc). Original cost $6,582.00, NSN 5820-01-351-6279. No further information. Ref.#28

PRC-135(V)3(C); Hand-held UHF,FM transceiver. Identical to the PRC-135(V)1(C) except for frequency range (403-470mc). NSN 5820-01-351-6280. No further information. Ref.#28

PRC-136; No description of this equipment has been found. It is known to have been built by Motorola, & purchased by the US Marine Corps at a cost of $2,347.00. NSN 5820-01-340-9438, no further information. Ref.#28mAnother source list the PRC-138 as follows, VHF/FM hand held adopted for the Marine Corps Crash Fire Rescue System(CFRS), reports to be a replacement for the PRC-94. Ops 130-174mc Dimensions and appearance are very similar to the PRC-126. Built by Magnavox. No further information.

Ref. #34

PRC-138; A description of this equipment has not been found. It is known to have been built by Harris. NSN 5820-01-361-9308, no further information. Ref.#28

PRC-138(V)2; HF/VHF, USB/LSB/AME/CW/FM transceiver. Ruggedized set can be used as a manpack, vehicular, base, or transportable station. Features Digital signal processing, ECCM frequency hopping, embedded frequency hopping. Embedded modems for 39 tone 2400bps (MIL-STD-188-110A)(2400bps TX/74bps RX), FSK 300bps, sync/async terminals, FAX, DMED or other data devices. Encryption for data & voice modes. Multi band & imagery narrowband COMSEC(ANDVT). Ancillary equipment to provide 125, 150, & 400watts RF output. Ops 1.6-60mc, with a basic RF power output of 20 watts. Built by Harris Corp. Ref.#33

PRC-138(V)X; Hand-held VHF,FM transceiver. A development contract was awarded to Harris Corp. This article also states that the PRC-138 has been in use by Special Operations Forces for some time. The contract will add new (classified) functions & advance capabilities. No further information. Ref. Defense & Security Electronics, (Sept.95)

PRC-138A(V)1; A description of this equipment has not been found. It is known to have been built by Harris at a cost of $40,000.00. It can be used in a vehicular installation as the VRC-101 (the above cost may include this equipment). NSN 5820-01-418-2242, no further information. Ref.#28

PRC-139(C); Hand-held VHF/UHF FM 3 band transceiver. Developed by Racal Communications. Ops 30-88mc, 136-174mc, & 403-470mc from 10vdc. RF power output is a selectable .5 or 2 watts. Weight 3.3 lbs. Accessories known are H-250 handset, battery charger, frequency programmer. Original cost $7,643.75, NSN 5820-01-369-6046. No further information. Ref. Defense & Security Electronics(Sept.95),#28

PRC-140; Back-pack, VHF/UHF FM/AM multi band ECCOM transceiver. The PRC-140 was developed by Motorola as part of the Saturn (Second Generation Antijam Tactical UHF Radio for NATO) system & is intended by them to replace the PRC-113. Features VHF/UHF (optional 3 bands), FM/AM/Data modes, compatibility with VINSON, SINCGARS, HAVE QUICK & HAVE QUICK II comsec systems, 30 active or 30 single-channel preset operation, built in test facilities, selectable output of 2 or 10 watts, & optional embedded encryption. No further information. Ref. Motorola product literature, 1995

PRC-174/RT-936; Back-pack, Vehicular HF SSB/AM/CW & data transceiver. A U.S. designed system, the PRC-174 is built in Israel by Tadiran & is part of ....... Ops 2-30mc in 100cps steps for a possible 280,000 channels. LSB/USB/DSB(AME)/CW. RF power output is rated at 20 watts. Requires 22-32vdc supplied by batteries (silver zinc or nicad rechargeable). Size 11/16"H x 10 5/16"W x 11 5/8"D, 12.5 lbs (less battery). Known accessories/configurations include compatibility with earlier generation antennas, audio accessories, power supplies, & mountings, also specially designed automatic test sets, & remote control equipment. AM-1760 100 watt amplifier & OA-807 mount (VRC-176). AM-4760 500 watt amplifier & OA-807 mount (VRC-476). Introduced 1978. Ref.#10,#11,#12

PRC-174/RT-936S; This radio is the same as the PRC-174/RT-936 except has these added features & improvements, frequency stability, noise blanking, voice processing, adjustable BFO, & a computer interface. Ref.#10

PRC-184/GY; Backpack or vehicular, VHF FM, ECCOM, frequency hopping transceiver. This German produced set (Cobra). Ops 30-88mc in 25kc steps, with an RF power output of 2.5 watts. Known accessories include audio & antenna types compatible with PRC-77nequipment, 40 watt RF amplifier for vehicular use, & a Key Gun for code injection. Introduced 1984 & is said to be in production. Ref.#12

PRC-247/B; Backpack base or vehicular HF SSB transceiver. Built in Italy by Industria Radio Elettrica. Ops 2-30mc(1.5-30mc optional) in 100cps steps. RF power output is 20 watts(high), 1/4 power(low). Requires 24vdc from nicad battery pack. Size 110mmH x 430mmW x 240mmD, 9kg (with battery). Known accessories include FSK converter/adapter, vehicular installation kit (VRC-247), 100 watt RF amplifier (GRC-247-100)or (VRC-247-100), 100 watt RF amplifier, 12-24vdc/100vac/22vac power supply(VRQ-102), VRQ-106 is the combination of the PRC-247 & it's VHF compliment VRC-538. Ref.#10, #11

DA/PRC-260; Portable VHF FM transceiver. This Danish radio set is outwardly identical to the Canadian or Danish CPRC-26, having only a slightly shorter battery box. Internally it has been converted to solid state, & operation is from 12vdc/125ma. Operational parameters & accessories are the same as for the CPRC-26. It is possible that the US Government obtained a small quantity of these radios for evaluation. Ref.#14

DA/PRC-261; This radio is identical to the DA/PRC-261 excepting for the addition of a two position bank switch which doubled it's original channel capacity of 6 to 12 channels. Ref.#31

PRC-277/RT-2841; Back-pack VHF FM transceiver. Built in Israel by Tadiran, the PRC-277 is outwardly identical to the U.S.AN/PRC-77. Internally, it incorporates several improvements, & features, these include 25kc channel spacing, advanced components & circuitry, X mode operation, complete module & accessory interchangeability. Some confusion exist as to the descriptions of the PRC-277 & PRC-377. One is apparently the result of a converted PRC-77. While the other is a factory produced version. It is not known which is which. Ref.#12

UK/PRC-316; Manpack portable HF/AM/CW transceiver. Built in the United Kingdom originally as the A16, the PRC-316 is similar in concept and purpose to the U.S. PRC-64. Though extremely small and lightweight, it must be set up for operation & cannot be operated while in motion. Features: Very simple operation, 45 xtal control channels. Built in antenna adjustments allow the use of 1/2 wave dipole antenna.

Code burst operation at 300wpm using GRA-71 code burst generator. Ops 2-7mc with a peak RF output rated at 4 watts. Power is derived from a 12vdc battery mounted under the set, or any external 12vdc source. Size 7.9 x 4.4 x 3.5in. Weighs just under 5 lbs less battery. Known accessories include a 1/2 dipole antenna adjustable to frequency. Optional single unit microphone/receiver or conventional double receiver/boom microphone. Ref: "RADIO BYGONES" Issue #43 Oct/Nov 1996 & #45 page 4,

"MILITARY W.A.R.S." newsletter of the Military Wireless Radio Society John F.H. Taylor Bulletin No. 36, August 1998.

UK/PRC-319; Non-US. Manpack, HF/VHF,SSB/Code Burst transceiver. Built in the United Kingdom by MEL (& possible Plessey), the PRC-319 is part of (or an offshoot from) the Clansman series of equipment. Features include key-pad entry of frequency/mode/& data with digital LCD display, 10 pairs of presettable channels, half-duplex operation, a removable pocket sized electronic message unit (emu), fully automatic antenna tuner ,& self test functions. Ops 1.5-40mc in 100cps steps. RF power output is 50 watts with an adjustable low power of 2-5 watts. Requires 24vdc supplied by internal nicad batteries or external source. Size 300mm x 200mm x 110mm. Ref.#12

UK/PRC-320; Non-US. Back-pack HF,USB/AM/CW transceiver. Built in England by Plessey, the PRC-320 is part of that countries "Clansman" series of radio equipment. Designed for use by long range patrols & special forces, it can be used as a back-pack, or vehicular radio, the latter with high & low power options. Ops 2-30mc providing 280,000 channels. RF power output is a selectable 3 or 30 watts. Requires 20-32vdc provided by nicad batteries (1 or 3.3 A-hr), hand crank generator, or vehicle source. Size 106mmH x 248mmW x 344mmD (with battery), 72mmH x 127mmW x 184mmD(battery). Ref.#10,#11,#12

UK/PRC-320/1; This radio is identical to the UK/PRC-320 except it is provided with selectable USB & LSB modes, & tunes in 1kc steps versus 100cps. Ref.#10,#11.#12

UK/PRC-321; An illustration of this radio is present in Ref.#10, as part of the Clansman (UK/VRC321) system. However, it is possible that the correct designation should have been VRC321,versus PRC. Ref.#10

UK/PRC-344; Backpack UHF AM transceiver. Built in England by Plessey, the PRC-344 is part of the "Clansman" series of radio equipment. Intended for ground to air links between ground attack troops & their supporting aircraft. Ops 225-399.9 in 50kc steps for a possible 3500 channels. RF power output is rated at 2.5 watts. Requires 22-29vdc as supplied by vehicular source, hand-crank generator & 1 A-hr battery, or internal 3.3 A-hr nicad battery. Size 77mmH x 223mmW x 240mmD,4kg (less battery), 363mmW, 7.58kg(with 3.3 A-hr battery). Ref.#10 ,#11,#12

UK/PRC-349; Hand-held VHF FM transceiver. Built in England by Racal (BCC-349), the PRC-349 is part of the "Clansman" series of radio equipment. Intended for platoon level personal communications under combat conditions. Ops 30-76mc(any 10mc segment). RF power output is a selectable .25/.5/or 1 watt. Requires 12vdc as supplied by various rechargeable or dry batteries, vehicle adapter cord etc. Size 244mmH x 90mmW x 40.5mmD(with manganese alkaline battery), 1.5kg(with antenna). Known accessories include rubber-helical short antenna, whip or trailing wire antennas, light-weight headset with boom mic, throat mic, standard Clansman headsets or handsets, special PTT box for tone

signal & various holsters and carry straps. Ref.#11,#12,#31

UK/PRC-350; Hand-carried/portable VHF FM transceiver. Built in England by Racal, the PRC-350 is part of the "Clansman" series Though smaller than a conventional back-pack radio, it is really too big to be used or carried in the same manor as a hand-held. Ops 36-57mc in 25kc steps. RF power output is 2 watts. Requires 15vdcfrom manganese or nicad batteries. Size 267mmH x 142mmW x 70mmD (including battery), 3.1KG(with antenna & battery). Known accessories include carry harness for hip or back use, 1.2 mtr whip antenna, & various audio accessories. Ref.#10,#11,#12

UK/PRC-351; Back-pack, VHF FM transceiver. Built in England by Racal, the PRC-351 is part of the 'Clansman' series of equipment. The set is intended for tactical use by f . Ops 30-76mc with a possible 1841 channels. RF power output is 4 watts. Requires 24vdc supplied by internal dry or 3.3ahr rechargeable nicad batteries. Size 395mmH x 240mmW x 70mmD,7.5kg. Ref.#10,#11,#12

UK/PRC-352; Man-pack VHF FM transceiver. The PRC-352 is the same equipment as the PRC-351,with the addition of a 20 watt RF amplifier. Normally operated as a ground station with an elevated antenna. For more information see PRC-351. Ref.#10,#11,#12

PRC-370; This number may be the result of a miss-print in Ref.#12, for more information, see PRC-730.

 

PRC-377/RT-3841;Back-pack VHF,FM transceiver. Israeli produced set that is operationally, & physically identical to the PRC-77. For more information, see PRC-277. Ref.#10,#11,#12

P-PRC-400; Back-pack or vehicle set by Centrel Electronica. The PRC-400 interred production in 1980. Ops 47-57mc(optionally any 10mc segment from 30-76mc), in 25kc steps for a possible 400 channels. Requires 11-16vdc, 400ma(rec),2amps(trans low), 3.5amps(trans high) supplied by rechargeable batteries (pack-pack or vehicular),or vehicular electrical system. Size 295mmH x 270mmW x 90mmD,4kg. Ref.#11

PRC-416; Handheld VHF,FM transceiver. Built by IRET in Italy, the PRC-416 is a tactical set for small front line combat units. Ops 40-50mc or any 10mc segment from 30-80mc.RF output is a selectable 100mw or 1 watt. Requires 13.5vdc as supplied by 9 alkaline batteries or rechargeable nicad types, contained in a lower battery case. Size 135mmH x 75mmW x 36mmD,.85kg(with batt. & antenna). Known accessories include short rubber helical antenna (for 2km range),long steel tape antenna(for 6km range), radio carry strap, & a webbing carry case for antennas. Ref.#10,#11,#12

PRC-420; Back-pack or vehicular HF,USB/LSB/CW/AME/FSK transceiver. Built in England by Plessey, the PRC-420 is designed to be used & operated as a one Back-pack set, 20 watt man-pack, or as a clip-in or

hard-mounted vehicular station. Ops 1.5-30mc in 100cps steps for a possible 285,000 channels. RF power output is a selectable 5 or 20 watts. Requires 20-32vdc as supplied by various portable battery combinations or vehicular source. Size 84mmH x 275mmW x 250mmD,5.6kg. Known accessories include pack frame, numerous audio accessories, portable whip antenna, vehicular clip-in or hard mounts, PV421 100 watt power amplifier, PV423 vehicular antenna tuning unit, PV2324 amplifier/loudspeaker unit, PV2312 FSK modem, PV430 encryption unit, & various ancillary cables etc that allow US & European compatibility. The PRC-420 (Commander) first announced in 1982, as of 1988 it was said to be in full production. Ref.#12

P/PRC-425; Non-US back-pack or vehicular, VHF FM transceiver. Built in Portugal by SISTEL, the PRC-425 seems to be either an updated version of, or the same radio as, the PRC-400. It is reported to be in production & use by the Portuguese Army & Airforce in the 41-51mc band. For more information see PRC-400. Ref.#12

PRC-436; Non-US, handheld VHF FM transceiver. Built in Italy by IRET, The PRC-436 seems to be an improvement over the PRC-416, & intended for the same purpose. It can be easily held in one hand to be used. Ops 40-50mc, in 25kc steps, for a possible 400 channels,(optionally any 10mc segment of 30-90mc). RF power output is 500mw. Requires approx 12vdc supplied by 9ea 500mhr nicad batteries contained in a lower battery box. Size 245mmH x 90mmW x 40mmD, 1.1kg (with battery & antenna). Known accessories include, long steel tape antenna, & a short rubber helical antenna. Ref.#12

PRC-439; Non-US, back-pack portable VHF,FM transceiver. Built in Italy by IRET, the PRC-439 appears to be a low cost alternative, tactical set for combat troops. Ops 40-50mc in 25kc steps for a possible 400 channels (optionally any 10mc segment from 30-80mc). RF power output is a selectable 300mw or 3 watts. Requires 12.5vdc normally supplied by 10ea "C" cell rechargeable nicads contained in its battery box. Size 244mmH x 154mmW x 62mmD, 4kg(complete). Note, the photo shown in Ref.#10 is not of a PRC- 39, it appears to be instead a PRC-638. Ref.#10,#11,#12

PRC-447; Non-US Back-pack, HF,LSB/USB/CW/AM transceiver. Built in Italy by IRET, the PRC-447 is an all solid state, water proof set suitable for a combat tactical environment. It is fully compatible with all HF equipment regardless of age, frequency stability, or mode. Ops 1.6-30mc in 100cps steps for a possible 83,999 channels. RF power output is a selectable 4 or 20 watts. Requires 13.6vdc/2.5amps. Size 80mmH x 300mmW x 240mmD, 7kg(with battery). Ref.#12

PRC-502/GY; Non-US. Handheld, VHF,FM transceiver. Built in Germany by Telemit, the PRC-502 appears to be a small tactical set for use by platoon or squad sized front line units. Operates on 6.6-9vdc (400ma trans), 10ma (rec standby), 60ma(rec unsquelched). RF power output is 500mw (with 7.5v supply). Size 255mmH x 85mmW x 35mmD. Ref.#10

PRC-504/GY; Non-US. Handheld VHF FM transceiver. Built in Germany by Telemit, the PRC-504 is intended for tactical personal communications in platoon or squad sized combat units. Designed as a private venture, the PRC-504 was introduced in 1979, no further information. Ref.#11

PRC-505/GY(RTX-5051); Non-US. Hand-held VHF FM transceiver. The PRC-505 is built in Germany by Telemit and has been in production since 1986. Ops 47-57mc with a possible 400 channels spaced 25kc apart. RF output is a selectable .1 or 1 Watt. Battery types include standard dry cells or rechargeable nicads. Size 236mmH x 53mmW x 100mmL. Ref.#12

CPRC-508/RT-5008; Canadian backpack VHF FM transceiver. This radio is nearly identical to the US PRC-8A, with only very minor cosmetic & mechanical differences. It can use either US or Canadian accessories including internal modules, handset, antennas etc. Additionally it could be supplied with a solid state inverter that clipped between the radio & a standard battery box that allowed operation from self contained 12vdc batteries. Ref.#13,#26

CPRC-509/RT-5009; Identical to CPRC-508 except for frequency range. Similar to US PRC-9A. Ref.#13,#26

CPRC-510/RT-5010; Identical to CPRC-508 except for frequency range. Similar to US PRC-10A. Ref.#13,#26

PRC-512(RT-5113); Hand held VHF FM Transceiver. This is the new Canadian Forces Low-Profile Secure Radio that is also labeled Light Assault Hand-held Radio(LAHR). This radio has been designed under the Tactical Command, Control and Communications System/Integrated Radio Intercommunication System (TCCCS/IRIS) by Computing Devices Canada(CDC) with technology supplied by Racal Radio. Ops 30-87.9875mc in 12.5kc steps. RF power output is a selectable .5 or 2 watts. Range 500m( short antenna), or 3km (long antenna). Requires 10dvc nominal. Accessories include: H-5034/U Handset (NSN 5965-99-0125), AS-5218 short rubber ducky type antenna (NSN 5985-01-368-5199). AS-5218 long antenna (NSN 5985-99-555-0124). BB-521 nickel cadmium battery (NSN 6140-21-911-6032). PP-5417 battery charger-analyzer (NSN 6130-21-912-9120) which includes MT-5321/G battery tray (NSN 6130-21-912-9102), interconnect cable (NSN 6130-21-912-9103), and AC power cable (NSN 6130-21-913-0602). Fill Cable Crypto (NSN 5995-21-913-4874). Cloning Cable (NSN 5995-01-431-2292). Carry pouch with belt and shoulder straps. Production began in 1994 in Calgary Canada under contract no. 4484, and units are in use by the Canadian DND. NSN 5820-21-911-5982.

PRC-515(RT-5047/URC); Back-pack HF,USB/LSB/AME/CW transceiver. Designed & built by Collins of Canada, the PRC-515 is also built by Collins International in the U.S. & is in use (in some form) at least by the US Army. In addition these radios were built & used in the former Yugoslavia & possibly other countries. Ops 2-30mc in 100cps steps, for a possible 280,000 channels. RF power output is rated 20 watts. Requires 20-32vdc supplied by 1.5ahr rechargeable battery or vehicular source. Weight is 22lbs while in its backpack role with all accessories. Known options, variations, & accessories include 549A-2 20 watt backpack PA/coupler, 548S-1 100 watt station PA & coupler, 541C-1 150 watt man-pack, vehicular, or fixed station PA/coupler, 548T-1 400 watt PA, 490T-2A coupler (400 watt station), 718U-5 100 watt portable PA. 671V-6 receiver-exciter unit, updates existing PRC-515 & GRC-220 equipments for split-frequency operation, with the addition of dual frequency controls. 719D-2 is a 20 watt backpack combination of the 671V-2 receiver/exciter,377L-2control, & the 549A-2 20 watt PA/coupler, (this may be the Collins designation for a PRC-515). 719D-15 is a 150 watt man-pack station that combines the 671V-2 receiver-exciter unit, 377L-2 control unit,5 49C-1 power amplifier/coupler (150 watt), 963A-2 RT pack-frame, 963A-3 acc & batt pack frame, BB-451 battery & AS-1320 whip antenna (PRC-47), vehicular installation is effected with the 998W-1 power conditioner, & various mounting trays. HF-125 is a 150 watt fixed station installation that is based on the 719D-15, it combines those accessories with an AC/DC power supply. VC-120 (GRC-220), is a 150 watt vehicular set that combines the equipment of a 719D-15 with the appropriate mounting trays, antenna & power conditioner. Ref.#10,#11,#12

PRC-547; Non-US back-pack, HF,USB/LSB/CW,ECCOM transceiver. Built in Italy by IRET, the PRC-547 is designed for use in electronic warfare environments, using pseudo-random code generated frequency hopping. Ops 1.6-30mc in 100cps steps for a possible 284,000 channels. RF power output is a selectable 4 or 20 watts. Requires 13.6vdc at less than 200ma(standby ?). Size 80mmH x 300mmW x 240mmD, 7kg (with battery). Ref.#12

PRC-549; Portable VHF FM transceiver. Built in Italy by IRET, the PRC-549 seems to be a non-tactical radio for Military police & security service, or for Marine band use by Coast Guard or Naval units. It appears to be useable as a pack set or in a semi-fixed/mobile role. Ops 148-174mc (any 1mc segment) with eight xtal control channels. RF power output is rated at 10 watts or greater. Audio output is 1 watt (as a mobile), or 500mw( as a portable). Requires 11-16vdc, 2 amps (trans), 50ma (rec,2/3 with battery

save) as supplied by 9ea 1.5v dry cell or nicad batteries, or vehicle source. Size 140mmH x 202mmW x 80mmD, 3.3kg (with battery pack). Ref.#10

BE/PRC-600/06; NATO designation for a Belgian made combination Back pack vehicular set. See PRC-610. Ref.#12

PRC-601; Handheld VHF FM transceiver. The PRC-601 is a ultra-small tactical radio intended for use by combat personnel in small platoon or squad sized units. Special models are available to meet other tactical needs (see PRC-602, PRC-601S,& PRC-602S). Ops 47-57mc (optionally any 10mc segment of 30-80mc) with 25kc channel spacing for a possible 401 channels. Six preset xtal control channel capacity. RF power output is rated 1 watt. Requires 10-14vdc as supplied by lithium or rechargeable nicad batteries (these appear to be the same as those used in the PRC-90). Size 6 11/16"H x 3 5/16"W x 1 11/16"D, 1.9lbs, 2.5lbs with battery. Built in Israel by Tadiran, & the US by GTE. The PRC-601 entered service with the Israeli Army in 1976 as a replacement for the US PRC-6, with an original cost of approx $1000.00. Ref.#10,#11,#12

PRC-601S; The PRC-601S is identical to the PRC-601 except that it has been developed specifically for use by Naval frogmen & commandos. As such, it can be transported under water with no protective case, depths of 45mtrs or more require only plugs to protect the earphone & microphone. With the operators head & shoulders above water, a range of 9 miles is said to easily be achieved. For more information, see PRC-601. Ref.#10,#11,#12

PRC-602; The PRC-602 is identical to the PRC-601 with the exception it is supplied to cover the frequency range of 70-80mc. For more information see PRC-601. Ref.#10,#11,#12

PRC-602S; The PRC-602S is identical to the PRC-602 & the PRC-601 except for those differences noted for the PRC-601S. For technical specifications, see PRC-601 & PRC-602. For Special use, see PRC-601S. Ref.#10,#11,#12

PRC-610; Non-US. Back-pack or vehicular HF,LSB/USB/AM/CW transceiver. Built in Belgium by S A MBLE, development began in 1974 as a replacement for the BDR-500 series of equipment. The RT-600 is the heart of a multi-use communications system. When combined with various accessory equipment it can be used as a back-pack set (PRC-610), vehicular installation at 20 or 100 watts( VRC-610, & VRC-620 respective), & a 100 watt ground station (GRC-620). The VRC-620 & GRC-620 use the AM-620 (combination 100 watt amplifier/antenna coupler/mount), it is mounted external to the vehicle or installation. Ops 1.6-30mc in 100cps steps for a possible 284,000 channels. RF power output is a selectable 5 or 20 watts. Requires 15vdc(2.5w rec, 45w trans). Size 252mmH x 365mmW x 82.5mmD, 150mmH x 34mmW x 82.5mmD (control box), 4.5kg (less battery & acc.), 8kg(fully operational). Known accessories include the AM-620, TS-600 field test set,RF-601 vehicular antenna coupler/mount( 20 watt installations), CS-634 low power vehicular control/power supply, TC-600 3km remote control, RA-630 100 watt PA/coupler (combination of the AM-630 amplifier), RA-631 100 watt PA/coupler( can be separated into two sections, up to 20mtrs, for ease of installation). NATO designations for the above equipment include BE/PRC-611 (PRC-610), BE/VRC-621(VRC-620), BE/VRC-671(VRC-610 BE/VRC-673/06 (GRC-620), & BE/PRC-600/06 (combination manpack/20watt vehicular). Ref.#10,#11,#12

BE/PRC-611; This is the NATO designation for the Belgian PRC-610. For more information see PRC-610. Ref.#12

PRC-613; Handheld VHF FM transceiver. Built in Israel by Tadiran, the PRC-613 is basically an improved version of the PRC-601 family, with the same operational purpose. Ops 36-53mc on any frequency with 25kc spacing. RF power output is 1nwatt minimum. Requires 10-14vdc 70ma (rec. squelched), 90ma (rec, operating) , 285ma(transmit). Size 8 3/9"H x 3 5/16"W x 1 11/16"D, 3.5lbs (with battery). The PRC-613 & 614 entered service with the Israeli army in 1979, it is unknown whether it shares the same US/Israeli background as its predecessors, the PRC-601 family. Ref.#10,#11,#12

PRC-614; The PRC-614 is identical to the PRC-613 except for a frequency range of 53-76mc. For more information see PRC-613. Ref.#10,#11,#12

PRC-638; Non-US Back-pack VHF FM transceiver. The PRC-638 is built in Italy by IRET, & is intended to perform a similar role as the US PRC-77. It can be combined with various ancillary equipment to provide backpack, vehicular, or semi-fixed station operation. Ops 30-76mc in 25kc steps for a

possible 1840 channels. RF power output is a selectable 4 watts high (optional 2 watts),o r 100mw low. Requires 11vdc( 100ma max rec), 1.5amps (trans high), 400ma (trans low) as supplied by nicad batteries or vehicular accessories. Size 202mmH x 140mmW x 80mD (with 4ahr battery),3 .5kg(with battery pack). Known accessories include PAL-30 30 watt vehicular RF power amplifier(VRQ-109), CU-14 vehicular antenna tuner, CV-3TA optional vehicular antenna tuner, 2.75 mtr vehicular antenna, PU-66 24vdc fixed station power supply, PU-64 12vdc fixed station power supply. Ref.#10,#11,#12,#26,#31

PRC-660T/RT-6241T; Non-US, Back-pack UHF AM transceiver. Built in Israel by Tadiran, the PRC-660 is intended to perform a similar role as the PRC-41 & PRC-66, in ground to air front line combat communications. Ops 225-399.975mc with an RF output of 1.7 watts minimum. Requires 23-38vvdc (vehicular role ?). Size 3 15/16"H x 11"W x 11"D, 13lbs 3oz,17lbs 9oz(with battery). Known accessories & configurations include. PRC-660T; CY-2562T battery box, AT-6600T portable antenna, H-189 or equivalent handset, BA-4660T magnesium battery(optional nicad types available). RM/VRC-240T;( ground station service) AM-2411T 16 watt amplifier with loud speaker, ICY-240T rack mount adapter (includes PS-2400T AC/DC power supply. VRC-249T; (vehicular installation) same as RM/VRC-240T

with an MT-1029 mount substituted for the ICY-240T, & the addition of a C-2410Tremote control. Ref.#10,#11,#12

PRC-660UV; Non-US Back-pack VHF/UHF AM transceiver. Built in Israel by Tadiran, the dual band PRC-660UV was introduced in 1984 as a replacement for the single band PRC-660T. The VHF aircraft band has been included for those that require communications with civil aviation. Ops 116-156mc with 1600 channels (optional 800), 225-400mc with 7000 channels( optional 3500). All other parameters are the same as the PRC-660T. Ref.#12

PRC-677; Non-US, Back-pack VHF FM transceiver. Built in Italy by IRET beginning in 1984,bthe PRC-677 is almost identical to thenPRC-638, & seems to be an updated version of that radio. The PRC-677 is micro-processor based, & operable via remote control. Secure voice mode can be provided by the SV3 external unit, & rebroadcast abilities are included. All other parameters are the same as those for the PRC-638. Ref.#12

PRC-677A; This radio seems to be the same as the PRC-638 & PRC-677 except that it has the provisions for Ten channel preset operation, & data transmission. Ref.#12

PRC-730; Non-US, Back-pack, VHF FM, frequency hopping transceiver. The PRC-730 number may be the result of a typo error in Ref.#12. The actual number may be PRC-370. Built in Israel by Tadiran, this radio is part of their CNR-900 series of equipment. Ops 30-89.975mc in 25k steps for a possible 2,320 channels. RF output power is a selectable 4 watts or 250mw (50 watts in high power vehicular role). Requires 12, 9-14, or 24vdc dependant on the installation. Size 85mmH x 240mmW x 310mmD, 7.5kg(8kg with ECCOM). Ref.#12

PRC-738; Non-US, back-pack, VHF, FM, ECCOM transceiver. Built in Italy by IRET, the PRC-738 is designed for operation in electronic warfare environments. It is possible that this is a modification of to provide ECCOM capabilities in an existing radio ("ECCOM capability added in 1984"). Ops 30-90mc in 25kc steps for a possible 2400 channels. RF power output is a selectable .3 or 5 watts. Requires 10-15vdc as supplied by rechargeable nicad batteries. Size 206mmH x 84mmW x 250mmD, 5kg(with battery). Accessories all seem to be compatible with the earlier PRC-638/677types. Ref.#12

PRC-777; Non-US Portable VHF FM transceiver. Built in Italy by Bero Divisione Elettronica, the PRC-777 family of equipment seem to be a very simple & low-cost alternative for combat, police, naval support personnel, & various other applications. They are very similar in design & appearance to other radios of this type, also of Italian origin (PRC-439, NA250). Because of their extreme similarities, descriptions of these will be included here. NA21b/c, ops 156-174mc. PRC-777A ops 68-78mc. PRC-777B ops 78-88mc. PRC-777C ops 115-137mc(AM ?). NA21S ops 156-174mc, with an added internal secure-voice feature. NA-250 series are available covering optional bands from 30-90mc, or 100-180mc, with a selectable output of 1 or 25 watts, & an optional 12 channel capacity, (F) models for mobile or fixed station use, & ® models for portable operation. Known accessories include a canvas carry bag, provided with a shoulder strap, & pocket for ancillary equipment. Various antenna types including short rubber helical, & steel tape. Speaker/mic or handsets. Several battery charger & fixed station power supplies. This family of equipment is also very similar to the PRC-439(see separate listing). Ref.#11,#12

PRC-803/RT-8004; Hand held, UHF AM transceiver. Known to be in use by the Royal Australian Air Force. This radio is believed to be of the Downed Airman's Emergency type and possibly of commercial origin. It has also been associated with air base ground control and security operations. Encountered examples have been painted industrial yellow and were provided with the following frequencies installed: 257.8 (MTAF), 246.6 (Surface Movement Control) and 259.8 (After Hours Emergency). Known features include cast aluminum cabinet construction, four channel capacity, and the use of a Rubber Duckie type antenna. Order number 5820-66-091'8143' 'RAAF', no further information. Ref.#31

PRC-838; Non-US Back-pack, VHF FM/MCW transceiver. Built in Italy by IRET, the PRC-838 is a front line combat radio that can be combine with various ancillary equipment to provide backpack, vehicular or fixed station operation. Ops 30-75.9mc in 25kc steps for a possible 1840 channels. RF power output is a selectable 20 watts( high), 2.5 watts(medium), & 300mw(low). Requires 6 amps maximum transmit, 110ma average receive. Size 84mmH x 206mmW x 300mmD, 6.6kg( with battery & pack frame). Ref.#12

PRC-911/GY; Non-US, back-pack HF LSB/USB/AM/CW transceiver. Built in Germany by Telemit following a private development program, the PRC-911 was introduced in 1979. Cosmetically it is almost identical to US sets built by Southcom, and internal design also favors this manufacturer! Ops 1.5-30mc

in 100cps steps for a possible 285,000 channels. RF power output is rated 20 watts(SSB),10 watts (CW), 5 watts(AM). Size 10.8cmH x 28.9cmW x 36.6cmD, 6kg (less batteries). Requiresb12vdc, 450mabrec, 1 amp trans. Ref.#10,#11

PRC-921/GY; Non-US back-pack HF USB/LSB/CW/FSK/DATA, ECCOM transceiver. Built in Germany by Siemens, & under license in Indonesia (for domestic use). The PRC-921 is part of their CHX200 family of HF ECCOM frequency hopping equipment, & has been in production since 1981. Ops 1.3-30mc(all mode transceiver), 10kc-30mc (receive), in 100cps steps. Dependent on the system, RF power levels range from 100-1000 Watts. Additional operational & physical characteristics are available but difficult to assign to the appropriate equipment. Known accessories & major items include PA-400 power amplifier, ATU-400 antenna tuning unit, PA/ATU-100 power amplifier/antenna tuner, CPH-200 receiver/exciter with communications processor, CHX250 1000 watt station, CHX240 400 watt station, CHX210 100 watt station. Ref.#12

BE/PRC-1012; Non-US back-pack HF USB/CW/AM transceiver. Designed & built in Belgium by MBLE as the BDR-500 series, PRC-1012 is the NATO designation for that equipment. As such, the following material is compiled from descriptions of the Belgian BDR-510 & BDR-550. The PRC-1012 is similar in design, technology, & purpose to the US PRC-74. It's design to final product period, lags that of the PRC-74 by about 5 years. However, it does incorporate some features & accessories that are improvements, & allow more flexibility. Two versions of the BDR-500 series are known, the first(BDR-510)ops 2-12mc,in 1kc steps with an RF power output of 10 watts. The later improved BDR-550 ops 2-18mc in 100cps steps, with an RF power output of 15, & 4 watts. Size 103mmH x 385mmW x 391mmD, 8kg(11kg with battery). Ref.#10,#11,#12

PRC-1077;Back-pack,VHF,FM transceiver. Claimed by the manufacturer(Trans World),the PRC-1077 was designed to be a drop-in replacement for the PRC-77.As such, all accessory equipments are interchangeable with the following exceptions, the size, configuration, location of controls & connections are the same as the PRC-77. Ops 30-88mc with 25kc channel spacing. RF power output is a selectable .1,2 or 5 watts. All other parameters are the same as the PRC-77. Accessories known other than those for the PRC-77 include the MT-1077(VRC-1077)mount, this appears to be an updated AM-2060 that negates the need of a MT-1029 mount, & fits the same foot print. A 50 watt vehicular amplifier is also reported. The designation of PRC-1077 is a manufactures model number, & not one assigned by the US government. Ref. Manufactures promotional material, #12

PRC-1088;Backpack,VHF,FM/ECCOM transceiver. Built by Trans World, US government sales have not been claimed & cannot be confirmed at this time. Originally developed by Collins as the PRC-124, the PRC-1088 features full compatibility with current PRC-77 audio, antenna, & carry accessories. Additionally it is capable of frequency hopping, & the use of external digital encryption equipment for communications security. Said to be user friendly, easy to operate, & has an RF output of 10 watts. No further information. Ref. Manufactures promotional material.

PRC-1099;Backpack,HF,LSB/USB/CW/Data burst/(AME optional) transceiver. Built by Trans World, the PRC-1099 is the HF counterpart to their VHF PRC-1077 radio set. Externally they are identical, & share many common accessories with the PRC-77. Ops 1.5-30mc in 100cps steps. RF power output is a selectable 5 or 20 watts. Requires 10-15vdc(12v nominal), 125ma (rec squelched), supplied by various battery & power supply combinations. Size 104mmH x 282mmW x 235mmD, 5.2kg(basic radio). Accessories, all the following are manufacturer supplied, most commonly available or interchangeable equipment are not listed. RCH remote control handset,H-189 or any equivalent handset, KYR CW key, LS-R remote loudspeaker. Various headphones & headsets. Portable power options include BA-4386 (magnesium), BA-5598 (lithium), BB-LA3 (3ahr), or BB-LA66 (6ahr) lead calcium batteries. BB-NC 4 & PRC-BCD-20 battery boxes(for throw away "D" cells).PRC-PS power supply/charger/loudspeaker, PRC-BC4 four station battery charger, either operate from 110/220vac or 20-32vdc.The PRC-CA12V cable allows 12vdc radio operation or BB-LA battery charging. PRC-SPU-10 solar 10watt charging unit. Hand crank generators PRC-HC-8(8 watt),or PRC-HC-30(30 watt),with mounts PRC-HC-TM (tree mount), or PRC-HC-MP (monopod mount). Remote antenna tuners RAT20 (20 watt), RAT100 (100 watt), RAT400 (400 watt), RAT1000 (1000 watt), all for use with various whip & wire type antennas. Antennas include RAK (remote 3mtr whip), RA-MAS (4.8mtr vehicular whip), RA-MSS (4.8mtr vehicular whip with locking spring base), RA-PAS (9.6mtr fixed station whip with flange base), ALD-REM (tactical long wire or dipole). AMX (portable mast system), & the ATD (tape dipole). Power amplifier options include the ruggedized waterproof RA100(100 watt),RA400(400 watt) for vehicular operation from 12 or 24vdc(AC supplies available),or the RA-1000(1000 watt) with the UPS1000 power supply for operation as a ground station from 24vdc or 110/220vac. Vehicular mounts are available that provide installation & operation in 12vdc or 24vdc vehicles (MT-1099-12 & MT-1099-24 respective). Reference No. 28 list the PRC-1099 as being purchased by the US Navy & Dept. of Defense (NSN 5820-01-297-2707) at a cost of $4,300,this information may be confused with the PRC-1077. Ref. Manufactures promotional material,#12,#28

PRC-1200; Non-US, backpack, HF, LSB/USB/CW, ECCOM transceiver. Built in the UK by Vigilant Communications, the PRC-1200(Patrol Radio) was designed for use by infantry patrol units. Ops 1.6-30mc with a selectable RF output of 300mw or 10 watts (optional 20 watts).Size 62mmH x 172mmW x 172mmD. Ref.#12

PRC-1250; Non-US, backpack HF, LSB/USB/AM/CW/ECCOM/Data transceiver. Marketed in the UK by Vigilant Communications, the PRC-1250 is the basic component of a series of systems (1250 Series). When combined with various ancillary equipment it can be used as PRC, VRC, or GRC types with power levels from 2-400 watts. Ops 1.6-30mc(optional 300kc-30mc rec)with 9+ presets. RF power output is a selectable 2 or 25 watts. Requires 22vdc as supplied by 4ahr or 2ahr(light weight) rechargeable batteries. Size 84mmH x 366mmW x289mmD. Known configurations include the VRC-1250 vehicular 25 or 6 watt installation. GRC-1250 100 watt ground or vehicular installation. AC power supplies & 400 watt RF amplifiers are also reported to be available. Note, the reference refers to the PRC/VRC/GRC-1250 also as PRC-150/VRC-150/GRC-150 respectively. This is possibly in error, other equipment with these designations are not known. Ref.#12

PRC-1300;Non US backpack VHF,AM transceiver. The PRC-1300(commercial designation A84) is a British produced radio for operation on the civil aircraft band 118-142mc with 800 synthesize channels spaced 25kc apart. Ref.#12

PRC-2000;Non-US,back-pack HF,LSB/USB/CW/Data transceiver. Known to originate in Belgium, & possibly the UK, the PRC-2000 is a backpack configuration of their manpack/vehicular(VRC-2000) "CALLPAC" series of tactical radio systems. Ops 1.6-30mc in 100cps steps, for a possible 284,000 channels. RF power output is a selectable 4 or 20 watts. Requires 12vdc nominal provided by a clip on battery box with 4ahr batteries, or a vehicular power supply that clips into it's place, for 10-32vdc operation. Size 82.5mmH x 272mmW x 370mmD,6.5kg(less acc.)8.5kg(with battery). Ref.#11 includes an advertisement for this system, as built by Phillips & marketed by MBLE in Belgium, & MEL in England. Photos in Ref.#11 & #12 depict a slightly different radio. Ref.#11,#12

PRC-2006;Non-US,handheld VHF,FM transceiver. Built in Italy by OTE ISC, the PRC-2006 is a handheld, simplex transceiver for the 30-80mc range, it features VOX operation, & 400 possible channels(unknown if this is literal). Ops 30-80mc,with a possible 400 channels, & 25 or 50kc spacing (suspect the frequency range is sub-divided into segments).RF power is rated 1 watt. Size 235mmH x 80mmW x 43mmD,1.2kg. The information on this radio is very limited, some parameters Listed here are speculation based on that limited info. Ref.#12

PRC-2061/RT-6;Non-US,back-pack,VHF,FM transceiver. Built by Terma Elektronik & B&W Elektronik in Denmark, it interred service in approximately 1974. The PRC-2061 appears to be physically compatible with the US PRC-77, having the same size cabinet configuration, & using all the same mounts , audio, antenna, & carry accessories. Audio, antenna, & auxiliary connectors are placed in the same panel locations as the PRC-77.It can be combined with various ancillary equipment to provide vehicular or fixed station operation with power levels up to 30 watts. Ops 26-76mc in 25ks steps, for a possible 2000 channels. RF power output is rated at 2 watts. Requires 12vdc,700ma(trans),225ma(rec max.) provided by various PRC-77 type batteries, or vehicular power supplies. Size 103mmH x 280mmW x 280mmD(with battery box),5.6kg(less battery). Known accessories include compatibility with PRC-77 equipment. RB 77/VRC vehicular 30 watt RF, 4 watt audio, power amplifier (functions also with PRC-77). RB-30/VRC very similar to the RB-77.MT-30 vehicular mount (RB-77, & RB-30), PP-30 similar to RB-77/30 less the RF amplifier, AM-30 vehicular automatic antenna tuner. RB-25 portable 30 watt RF amplifier accepts either 3 or 20ft whips. RB-25B same except operates on 50 ohm loads. The PRC-2061 is also built in the UK by Marconi, & is reported to be in use by various armed forces. Ref.#10,#11,#12

PRC-2077; Non-US backpack VHF FM transceiver. Built in Israel by Tadiran, the PRC-2077 appears to be a highly updated replacement for the PRC-77. Size & all associated accessory items are the same as that for the PRC-25 or 77. Ops 30-76mc in 25kc steps for a possible 1840 channels. RF power output is rated at 2 watts. Requires 10-15vdc(90ma standby,1.1amp trans) as supplied by various battery combinations including BA-386 (carbon-zinc),& nicad rechargeable, or lithium types(plastic encased with replaceable cells). The AM-2065 power amplifier/adapter allows vehicular use. Size 3 15/16"H x 9 1/4"W x 10 1/8"D,11lbs/10oz. Ref.#10

PRC-2200/RT-2001; Non-US backpack HF, LSB/USB/AM/CW/Data transceiver. Built in Israel by Tadiran, the PRC-2200 is part of their HF-2000 adaptive HF radio system, & appears to be a highly updated replacement for the PRC-174. The basic RT-2001 can be combined with a variety of ancillary equipment to provide PRC,VRC or GRC type installations, with power levels of 5-150 watts. Ops 1.5-30mc in 100cps steps for a possible 285,000 channels. RF power output is a selectable 5,10 or 20 watts. Size 85mmH x 250mmW x 350mmD,7.3kg. Known accessories & configurations include CP-2003 integral antenna coupler,MT-20023 vehicular mount(VRC-2020).MT-2103 combination VHF/HF radio vehicular mount, CP-2103 150 watt amplifier/antenna coupler (VRC-2100).TFM-2111 frequency management unit. Ref.#12

KL/PRC-3620/RT-3600; Non-US, backpack, VHF FM transceiver system. Built in The Netherlands by Phillips, the PRC-3620(RT-3600) was the basic component of a large variety of VRC type equipment(KL/VRC-3600 system)with power levels of 1.5-25 watts. Ops 26-70mc in 50kc steps for a possible 880 channels(2 preset).RF power output is rated 1.5 watts(2 watts for simple vehicular installation, or 25 watts with amplifier).Size 90mmH x 250mmW x 310mmD. Ref.#10

PRC-4620/RT-4600;Non-US,back-pack VHF,FM/Data transceiver. Built in Turkey by ASELSAN, & the Netherlands by Hollandse Signaalapparaten, & Phillips. The PRC-4620 is the VHF complement to the Belgian PRC-610,& is part of the PRC/VRC-4600 series of modular combat radio systems. Ops 30-76mc,in 25 or 50kc steps. RF power output is rated at 2 watts. Requires 11-18vdc(12v nominal),as supplied by multiple BA-30 type batteries, rechargeable nicads, or various vehicular sources. Known accessories include BX-4600 battery case for BB-4600 rechargeable nicad block, or BH-4600 BA-30 battery holder. AM-4600 30 watt vehicular RF amplifier,PP-4602 24vdc power supply (replaces BX-4600 in vehicular installations).MT-4620 vehicular mount, AF-4620 vehicular loudspeaker/audio amplifier/control unit. JB-4600 vehicular connection box,PP-4621 vehicular power supply when using IC-4600 intercom unit or AF-4620.IC-4620 central control unit,C-4621 vehicular remote control unit,LS-4621 loudspeaker,RF-4620 automatic antenna match unit. Ref.#28

 

 

ADDENDA, PRC DESIGNATED MILITARY RADIO EQUIPMENT;

PRC-F1; Australian HF/AM/CW/SSB, backpack transceiver. Designed and built by in Australia, the PRC-F1 (originally designated A-512) follows closely the design purpose of the US PRC-74. Lagging it's US counterpart by several years in design and fielding, it incorporates several design parameters that exceed that of the US set while also providing features & modes lacking in the PRC-74. Development of the PRC-F1 began in the mid 1960's with prototypes being field tested in approx 1969. The final version was equipped with the ability to use the GRA-71 code burst keyer & designated the PRC-F3. Additionally, any PRC-F1 could be modified for code burst operation when fitted with the Conversion Kit MK-F7. Features include 100% solid state design using all silicon type transistors. Fully synthesized frequency control with extreme stability. Four place rotary knob frequency selection, & fine tune ability. Completely water tight construction with the ability to float. Built in manual antenna tuner allows the use of 8,16,27, & 43ft whip antennas as well as end fed & dipole type wire type antennas. Variable selectivity provided by a 12-pole xtal filter. A full line of ancillary equipment that allow backpack, ground, & vehicular/watercraft operation. Extremely low power consumption. Ops 2-12mc in 1kc steps for a possible 10,000 channels. RF power out is rated at 10/1 watts PEP AM/USB, 5/1 watts CW (high/low power settings). Requires 28vdc with a typical current consumption of 550ma(trans), 35ma(rec). Size 32cmw x 12.7cmh x 29.4cmd,weight 14lbs/11oz(RT unit), approx 20 lbs. (operational backpack). Accessories include; For Backpack operation, CU-F1 or CU-F1A side mounted antenna base/coupler, HF-2 handset (or any US standard type), MF-1 microphone & HF-1 earphone, KY F1A1 (No.1 Mk.2) miniature CW key, KY-116/U leg iron type CW Key, AS-F3 or F4 wire antenna & counterpoise, AS-F2 dipole antenna, AS-F1 8ft whip antenna, ST-F1 backpack harness, BB-F1 battery, MX-F! battery charger. Ground station operation (GRC-F2), MK-F7 conversion kit with among other things, CU-F2 antenna coupler, along with those accessories required for backpack operation. Vehicular/Watercraft installations (GRC-F2 with MK-F8), AB-652 antenna base, AB-243 antenna mount, 5ea MS-116 mast sections, 2ea MS-117 mast sections, 2ea MS-118 mast sections, mountings MT-F2, MT-F3, MT-F4. The PRC-F1 was designed & built exclusively by AWA specifically for the extremely rugged & or tropical/jungle conditions typical of Australia forces operational areas. At this time, it remains a current issue item. Ref.#30,31

PRC-F3; This radio set is an updated version of the Australian PRC-F1 & F2 models. There is some confusion as to whether or not this model is in fact the PRC-F2. For more information, see those types.

PRC-6/6; This West German produced radio is physically identical to the original U.S. version and uses a common case. The original case has been modified to allow for the radios different internal construction and extended six-channel capacity. The external antenna connector has been replaced with a channel selector switch, and a window has been placed on the side of the back cover for a selected channel display. While this version also uses sub-miniature tubes in its design, the circuits are completely different from the original U.S. types. Even different crystal types are used. The only internally compatible component is the radio's battery. A similar, if not the same radio is also reported to have been built in France as the TR-PP-8-A. Ref.#23

PRC-9A/RT-175A; Identical to PRC-9 except for those differences noted under PRC-8A. This series of radios is known to have been both used by, and domestically produced in a number of countries including Australia, Britain (as the A-42), France (similar to the ER-79A), and in Canada (as the CPRC-509). Ref.#42 (BM#52)

PRC-10A/RT-176A; identical to PRC-10 except for those differences noted under PRC-8A. This series of radios is known to have been both used by, and domestically produced by a number of countries including Australia, Britain (as the A-41), France (as the ER-79A), and in Canada (as the CPRC-510). Ref.#23, #30, #42(BM#52)

PRC-17; Handheld, VHF/UHF, AM transceiver intended for search & rescue service & used by the US Navy. Ops on 121.5 & 243mc AM/MCW, with a RF power output of 50mw. Requires 135v & 1.5v supplied by internal batteries. Size 14 3/4 x 2 5/8 x2 7/8". In addition, examples have been encountered that indicated use by commercial airlines, in particular TWA. Original cost circa 1951-1953 $210.00. Ref.#3

PRC-22; The PRC-22 is described as a UHF "Handie Talkie" capable of operation over the frequency range of 225-399.9mc with a possible 1760 channels. RF output power is rated at 300mw, with AM voice operation. With a contract date of 1951, it is doubtful this radio was capable of operation on more than a couple preset channels at any one time. Only three components are noted as being part of the PRC-22 system: R.F Tuner, I.F. amplifier, Power Supply. The latter might indicate the use of a vibrator type power supply and wet cell batteries. No physical examples of this radio have ever been found so production might have been very limited. Built by Air Associates Inc., contract NObar-52660 June 1951. No further information. Ref.#38

PRC-25A; Identical the PRC-25 except for modifications to the A25 module increasing the audio bandwidth. This to allow operation with TTY & voice security equipment. Ref.#26

PRC-25B; Identical to previous versions of the PRC-25. Suspect that these are overhauled radios & some may have been painted CARC. In addition, a possibility of the substitution of silicon type solid state devices. Ref.#26

CPRC-26/CRT-1; Portable Canadian VHF/FM transceiver. Intended as a squad radio similar in purpose to the US PRC-6. Variant models of CPRC-26 exist I/E CPRC-26 (A-F), the only deference in these being the frequencies of the six channels supplied. The CPRC-26 could be carried in a variety of different manors i.e. it could be hand carried, worn on a standard pistol belt, shoulder carried with a canvas strap, or it's harness allowed it too be worn as a back-pack, under the arm, or on the chest offset to the right or left. In the mid 1950's the US acquired a quantity of CPRC-26's to be tested as possible replacements for the PRC-6.It was officially judged as "having no significant advantage ". In fact the set had many advantages, including it's 6 channel capacity, ability to use an assortment of antennas & batteries, replacement of the battery did not require disassembly of the radio as it used a separate battery box, multiple carry options, smaller size & heavier construction, field serviceability with less logistic problems (the CPRC-26 uses plug in modules that are in large part interchangeable with those in the US & Canadian variants of the PRC-10). On the other hand, the US PRC-6 used discrete components few of which were interchangeable with anything else, It was a very ungainly radio to repair, align (it's numerous tuning coils are rather fragile) & use. The CPRC-26 was also adopted by Holland, who later improved it by conversion to solid state. It is possible that this version too was tested by the US. Ops 47-54mc, on any of 6 independently tuned channels, using the same xtals as the US PRC-6. RF power output approx 300mw. Requires 1.5v/850ma, 45v/8ma, 90v/30ma(trans), 1.5v/550ma, and 45v/12ma. 90v/3ma, -3v bias (rec), supplied by BA-289. Accessories include, H-5001 handset, H-5002 headphone, CTS-4 battery test set, CCX/CPRC-26 battery cable (for arctic use), Type 88 British antenna (in addition any of the common US short steel type antennas can be used), US type AT-339 homing antenna, CAT-3 long wire antenna, CCW-1 canvas bag, CTS-3 test set. Other known users include Australia and Britain (as the A-40) Ref.#14, #23, #30, #42(BM#52)

PRC-27; Backpack UHF/AM transceiver. Intended for use by ground troops for close air support purposes. Ops 225-400mc on any one of 4 xtal control channels. R.F. output power is rated at 2 watts. DC power derived from internal dry batteries. Size 3 x 12 x 19", 25 lbs. The PRC-27 is reported to be similar to, and a replacement for, the Navy MAY but smaller in size, and lighter in weight. Built by Designers for Industry, Cleveland OH on contract NObar-63367, March 1953. Ref.#38

PRC-42; Backpack HF/SSB transceiver. Intended for tactical use in support of amphibious operations. Ops 2-12mc with a possible 20,000 channels. R.F output power is rated at 20 watts. Operable from 110vac 60cps, or internal batteries (27.5vdc). System includes Receiver-Transmitter, battery pack, and carry harness, manual NAVSHIPS 93400. Built by AVCO Mfg. Corp, Lawrence, Mass. contract NObar-77507, November 1958. Ref.#38 A second description of this radio exists as printed in a late 60's edition of "Electronics, a McGraw-Hill publication". Here it is noted as being a developmental radio by AVCO that turned into the PRC-70 program. Operating 2-76mc in 1kc steps with an R.F. output power of 40 watts. 32 lbs. Army, AD294-539L.

PRC-44, Navy flight deck communication system. Ref. late 60's edition of "Electronics", a McGraw-Hill publication. No further information.

PRC-47/RT-671; two manpack-portable HF, USB/CW transceiver. Collins designed and built for use by Special Forces. It was widely used by Marine FAC's for long range ground to air & ground to ground communications. Entering service approx 1963 it remained a first line radio at least until the late 1970's. Features mechanical digital frequency tuning with four rotary knobs, all solid state construction (except for tubes in RF stages). Optional VOX, & FSK operation. A built in antenna tuner allows use of the following antennas 15',or 20'whips,long wire, & any standard 50-75 ohm type. Extreme frequency stability. Ops 2-12mc on any one of 10,000 synthesized frequencies spaced every 1kc. RF output power is 100 watts (high) or 20 watts (low). Requires 110vac(400cps) or 24vdc supplied by vehicle storage battery, or BB-451 silver zinc rechargeable battery. Size (RT-671) 7 x 13.5 x21.25, 42lbs. Accessories include CY-3700 transit case, CW-647 panel cover, H-33 handset, LS-166 loudspeaker, H-233 headphones, J-45 telegraph key, MX-4430 battery adapter terminal, CX-8393 AC power cable, CX-8394 DC power cable, CX-8395 battery cable, AS-1320 whip antenna & canvas bag, AS-1321 long wire antenna, MT-2786 legs & ground plane & canvas bag, MK-1519 vehicle installation kit, CV-2455 TTY converter, 2 ea. pack frames, rucksack bag. A small 110vac/400cps gas generator is also known to have been built by Homelite based on a chain saw motor. The PRC-47 is also known to have seen service with the Australian Army circa 1966. Original equipment cost $6004.00. Ref.#9, #9A, #23, #28, #29, #30, #42 (BM#52)

PRC-49; Handheld UHF, AM/MCW transceiver. Designed for use by downed aircrew. Ops 225-400mc on any one xtal control channel with an RF power output of 100-250mw.Size 5.75 x 1.75 x 3.75". Solid State Design requires 6 and 14vdc supplied by an external battery. No further information. Original cost $1080.00. Ref.#15/1987,#28

PRC-49 (various); Variants of the PRC-49 are known to exist, these include PRC-49A, B, & C. It is unknown the differences between these & previous versions, as all share the same basic features & parameters. Perhaps the only difference is in the original manufacturer/supplier. C models are reported to include a volume control. Ref.#28

PRC-52; Portable HF/CW transmitter-receiver. Ops 3-16mc Rx, 3-32 MHz Tx, CW Tx only, crystal controlled, 5W with Amp AM-2855, 15 W with AM-2856, runs from 6-72 VDC or 110 VDC, 2 penlight cells (3vdc) for Rx. Built by Delco and Victory. Ref. late 60's edition of "Electronics", a McGraw-Hill publication. No further information.

PRC-56; Built by Allied Signal with an original US Navy cost of $2610.00. NSN 5820-00-757-3011. Ref. #28. Additional information found in a late 60's edition of "Electronics", a (McGraw-Hill publication): AD805-257, UHF, too bulky, tubes employed. No further information.

PRC-58/RT-772; Body worn VHF, FM transceiver. Built by Repco for general-purpose use. The PRC-58 is constructed in three major components, RT unit, battery box, & external handset. The handset houses a loudspeaker, mic, power on/off switch, PTT, volume & squelch controls. The battery box & RT unit are carried in a rubberized canvas bag with provisions for wearing in several ways about the users body. Ops 144-174mc on any one xtal control frequency. RF power output is 1 watt. Requires 12vdc. Original US Air Force cost $450.00. It is believed that this radio set is a re-packaged version of the commercial Repco model 10-4. Ref.#23, #28, #29

PRC-62; Manpack HF AM/SSB transceiver. This radio was reported to be used in Vietnam by patrols to talk to unit headquarters in a magazine article "Vietnam, Electronics in War", Electronics magazine May 16,1966. It is unknown how accurate the statements are, as this set has never been encountered, & other errors exist in this article. Reported to operate 2-30mc,AM & SSB. Other reports indicate an operational range of 1-12mc with AM, CW, & MCW modes of operation. An Australian list of current issue equipment, circa 1966, includes this radio and describes it as being under development in the U.S. A further description from this same country reads: "AN/PRC-62 is an HF SSB manpack or vehicular set. Frequency Range 2 to 30 mc/s in 28,000 x 1 kc/s steps. Emission SSB Voice and CW. Power Output 20 Watts. Size 13" x 17 1/4" x 4", Weight 29 pounds. Power Source 12 volt Nickel Cadmium battery for manpack use or 24 volt vehicle supply. Antennas:

A. Manually tuned 9'3" portable whip

B. Adjustable sloping wire with counterpoise.

C. Doublet with transmission line

D. Vehicular 15ft whip

Status In development in U.S.A."

Ref.#42(BM#52)

PRC-64; Manpack HF, AM/CW transceiver. Adoption of the CIA's Delco 5300 for use by US Army Special Forces. Intended to replace the GRC-109 (RS-1), RS-6, & to a lesser extent the GRC-9 radio sets, then in use by extreme forward patrols & fire bases. The PRC-64 is a miniature, all solid state portable station. It must be set up for operation & cannot be operated while in motion. Built in antenna adjustments allow the use of 1/4 wave, 1/2 wave dipole, or longwire antennas. CW keying can be done by a miniature top mounted CW key, remote key, or code burst operation at 300wpm using GRA-71 code burst generator ("A" models only). Ops 2.2-6mc on any of four xtal control frequencies. RF output power is 5 watts (CW) & 1.5 watts (AM). Requires 4v, 12, & 24v normally supplied by BA-1509. Size 10 x 5 x 4.5", 7.5lbs (with battery). Circa 1965. The PRC-64 is also known to have seen service with Australian SAS in South East Asia and was listed as a standard issue item circa 1966. Ref.#9,#9A,#16,#23,#30,#42(BM#52,26)

PRC-66A; Same as the PRC-66 with added squelch function.

PRC-66B; Same as the PRC-66A with an added Guard channel Rx option with installation of proper module, and added wide band audio, for use with speech security equipment.

PRC-68A; This later variant of the PRC-68 has the ability to operate on ten preset channels with 25kc channel spacing, in any sequence within any one of four selectable sub-bands, 30-40, 40-54, 50-64, 60-80mc. Channel presets are accomplished via internal programming. The radio has a slightly larger cabinet, but retains complete compatibility with previous model accessories. Ref.#28, #26, #30, #31

PRC-68B; Improvement of the PRC-68 that includes an external antenna load control, LCD frequency display, 2 watts RF output (adjustable), 2.5kc channel spacing with full band coverage, simplex or half duplex modes of operation, NBFM or WBFM options for each channel both on Tx and Rx. Its low band module is reported to be replaceable with another that will allow high band operation, but it is possible that reports are confused with that of the (V) variants. Announced in 1984, a production order of 9 million dollars was placed by the US Marine Corps. Original US Airforce cost $3084.50. Ref.#12, #28, #30, #31

PRC-74B; Same as PRC-74A except has the extended frequency range of 2-18mc. Circa 1967. Manufactured by Hughes Aircraft in the US, and by Re diffusion in the UK as the GR-345.

PRC-74C; Identical to the PRC-74B except for the front panel frequency markings being in MHZ/KHZ (megahertz/kilohertz) rather than MC/KC (megacycles/kilocycles). Other improvements noted in it's manual(TM 11-5820-590-12-1) include: RT case has ruggedized latches, The freq. Syn relocates Y47, secures switch assy A1 and A4 with brackets and changed value of several components, RF module has different chassis plates, IF/Audio module has an added capacitor, power supply module relocates several components, freq. gen. has added spring clips, all modules have components subject to shifting secured with sealant, and Battery box CY-6314A mounts the batteries differently than CY-6314.

PRC-76; Portable radio set that provides two-way communications with any other FM radio set operating between 70-80mc. With 1w RF output. No further information. Ref.#29A. Additional information was supplied in a late 60's edition of "Electronics", a McGraw-Hill publication: AF project 407L, 30-76mc, single channel, crystal control, 1 Watt. No further information.

PRC-84; See also PRC-82, Portable VHF FM transceiver. Used as part of PRC-82 or possibly as stand-alone radio. Ops 30-76mc, channel spacing 50kc apart providing a possible 2320 channels, frequency agile with code store. An output power of 6 watts (alternately 2.5 watts has been reported). No further information. Ref.#29

PRC-87; Para-Rescue radio, VOX operated. Helmet or vest, worn. Under development circa 1971. Ref. late 60's edition of "Electronics", (a McGraw-Hill publication). No further information.

PRC-89; Handheld VHF/FM transceiver. Built by Zenith Radio Corp. for use by the U.S. Coast Guard both ashore and afloat. It is described as a lightweight, spray tight and was intended for operation on the International VHF Marine band. Features replaceable module construction, 60 hour battery life, telescoping non-removable 1/4 wave antenna, battery level meter, and a built in speaker/mic. Ops 156-158mc on any of four crystal control channels with the following frequencies supplied Ch.16 (156.8mc), Ch.21c (157.05mc), Ch.22c (157.10mc), and Ch.23c (157.1mc). Rated RF output power is 4 watts derived from an internal 12.5 volt mercury battery. Audio output is rated at 500mw. Size 8.75"H x 3.5"W x 2"D, 3.9lbs. Color, gray enamel. System Components include RT unit, Battery box, leather carry case and shoulder strap. Ref.#30

PRC-90; Handheld UHF, AM/MCW/Beacon transceiver Developed as a replacement for The PRC-63 (and others). For use by downed aircrew members. It was also known to have been forced into service for strike control of fighter aircraft in extreme forward areas do to a lack of a suitable radio. Ops on 243m AM/MCW/Beacon, or 282.8mc voice only, with an output power of 500mw.Requires 14v as supplied by BA-1568 battery Size 6"H x 3 1/8"H x 1 1/2" T, 22oz. (24oz.with battery). Numerous variations of the

PRC-90 exist, these include PRC-90-1, PRC-90-2, PRC-90-2C, PRC-90-2T, & PRC-90T. Other than the original manufacturer, & federal stock numbers, supplied frequencies, it is unknown what the differences between these models are. Early versions are reported to use a "rubber duckie" type antenna similar to those used on the PRC-63. Later variants use a more efficient combination rubber/helical and telescoping 1/2 wave antenna. Army/Air Force versions differ from Navy/Marine Corps variants in that the formers case is fabricated from investment cast aluminum. While the later is milled from a single solid block of aluminum, said to allow the radio's survival to greater depths when submerged in water. Training versions differ from the standard in case color (yellow versus olive drab) and channel frequencies supplied. Ref.#9, #9A, #10, #11, #12, #28

PRC-93; Handheld UHF, AM, transceiver. Intended for use by Air-Sea Rescue units in the location & extraction of downed aircrew members. It is believed that this radio is a modification of the ACR RT-10 to provide two channel operation on 243 & ?mc, AM with an output power of 200mw. Ref.#2 An alternate description contained in "U.S. Military Combat Aircrew Individual Survival Equipment, WW-II to present, a reference guide for the collector", Michael S. Breuninger describes the radio as a single channel ACR/RT-10 not supplied on 243 mc, and containing a mechanical shutter type volume control. No further information.

PRC-95; Hand held UHF/AM transceiver. Designed for use by downed aircrew as a possible replacement for the PRC-90. Features two channel operation on 243 and 282.8mc, from a lithium battery supplying 18 ours of battery life. Said to be the first use of this type battery. Ref. Electronic Design, August 2, 1966. Electronics, November 1970,the Vietnam Report Part II. No further information.

PRC-96; Shipboard or lifeboat emergency AM, Beacon transceiver. Designed for use by distressed Naval personnel to effect their rescue. Entered service with the US Navy 1972 with an order of 1200 units. Ops on 121.5 & 243mc,AM voice/MCW/Beacon, with an RF power output of 200mw,from internal lithium batteries (2ea 2.9v)*. Size 13.5 x 10 x 4", 7lbs 8oz (case), 6 x 4 x 2", 3lbs 8oz (transceiver), 7.75"(antenna). TS-3527 dual channel accessory test set checks transmit, receive, & battery condition. *The manual shows a special sleeve that can be added to the battery compartment that allows 4 ea D cells to be used in all submarine applications where lithium is not allowed. Ref.#11,#12

PRC-106; Handheld VHF/UHF, AM/Beacon transceiver. Designed as a survival radio for downed aircrew. It provides voice & beacon operation on either civil or military guard channels. Ops 121.5 or 243mc,with one of two xtal control channel/bands, with an RF output of 100mw(600mw ?). Requires 14v/100ma (trans), 50ma (rec), supplied by mercury battery. Size 6 x 3.1 x 1.4", 24oz(radio with battery), 23.5" (antenna). Built by ACR Electronics, Ft. Lauderdale Ca. the PRC-106 is physically identical to the PRC-90. Entered service with the US Air Force 1974. Use by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) has also been documented. Original cost $3180.93, NSN 5820-01-156-5709. Ref.#11, #12, #23, #28

PRC-117; Backpack, VHF FM, ECCOM transceiver. The PRC-117 is a microprocessor-controlled random frequency hopping (any 5mc band segment) radio set designed for use in electronic warfare environments. It features built in self test, simplex or half duplex operation, channel scanning, true dual frequency repeater operation with back to back units, & a clear-net function that alerts the user while in frequency hopping or secure mode that a conventional operator is trying to contact him. All cables, audio & antenna accessories are interchangeable with PRC-25/77 types. Ops 30-89.975mc in 25kc steps with eight preset channels. RF power output is a selectable 1 or 10 watts (.1 or 10 watts optional). Requires 12v supplied by internal rechargeable nicad batteries. Size 76mmH x 200mmW x 280mmD, 5.8kg. Operable with Comsec equipment TSEC/KY-57 using J-3987A/PRC-117 interface unit. Introduced 1982 by Harris Corp. The PRC-117 is believed to be in use by US forces. Ref.#12, #31

PRC-117A; Same as the PRC-117 with the added ability to use the TSEC/KY-57 for secure voice operation, and expanded full-band hopping (30-88mc). Requires J-3987A/PRC-117 interface unit. It has also been reported that the PRC-117A is the result of re-labeling standard the PRC-117 when the PRC-117B was developed. Ref.#12, #31

PRC-117B; Same as the PRC-117A with the addition of full band frequency hopping range. Re-designed front panel includes a dot matrix LED display, and an added COMSEC control knob. It is in use with the US Government (NSN 5820-01-363-7575), cost varies between $5,140-$14,140. Ref.#28, #31

PRC-117C; Same as the PRC-117B, but incorporates imbedded VINSON compatible COMSEC. It is in use with the US Government (NSN 5820-01-366-0775). Ref.#28,#31

PRC-117D; Same as the PRC-117B/C with an added multi band and mode capability. Features include voice/data modes, UHF TACSAT & SATCOM operation, key management, Frequency hopping ECCM, and an optional jerk & run vehicular mount (VRC-94). Ops 30-90mc FM, 116-174 mc AM and optional FM, 225mc-425mc AM. Channel spacing is band dependent & includes 5, 6.25, & 25kc spacing. RF power output is rated at various levels including 24.5 watts PEP AM, 4 or 20 watts AM Satcom. Introduced in 1991 by Harris Corp. The PRC-117D is known to be in use by US forces. Ref.#28, #12B

PRC-117D©;Same as the PRC-117D with the addition of embedded VINSON compatible COMSEC. A Naval 1996 contract was let with Harris Corp in the amount of $9,331,580 for the procurement and upgrade of the PRC-117 multi-mission tactical manpack system, with a suspected contract completion date of Sept.1999. Ref.#12B

PRC-117D(E);Export version of the PRC-117D. Suspect this set to be less COMSEC agile. Ref.12B

PRC-123V2;HF SSB/AM/CW manpack transceiver. Features keyboard frequency entry, internal nicad battery or external power supply options, an optional automatic antenna tuner, vehicular configurations & remote control capabilities. Ops 2-30mc with 100cps channel spacing for a possible 280,00 channels. RF power output is rated at a selectable 2.5,10 or 20 watts. Size 80mmh x 210mmw x 226mmd,4.5kg. Built by Gould Inc. Navcom Systems Div. NSN 5820-01-201-1065,US Navy cost $10,000. Ref.#28,#12A

PRC-124;Backpack VHF/FM voice & data transceiver. Developed by Rockwell Collins (as the MP-83) as a replacement for the PRC-77, it is believed that a change in equipment requirements limited

production/quantities & procurement to a limited time span. In 1983, sets were delivered to the 9th Infantry Div. Ft. Lewis WA. for ECCM field testing evaluations. Features included digital frequency synthesis with an LCD frequency/mode/channel display, 9 possible preset channels with scan options of up to 4 channels. Frequency hopping capabilities at 100per second (fill device required). In addition, all common accessories with the PRC-25/77 family of equipment. Ancillary equipment available for 50 watt vehicular operation. Ops 30-87.875mc in 25kc steps, with a selectable RF power output of .25 or 5 watts from 12vdc. Size 100mmh x 280mmd x 280mmw,4.5kg. It is possible the PRC-124 has been licensed to Transworld for release as the PRC-1088. Ref.#12A

PRC-128(V);A full description of this equipment has not been found. It appears to be a hand held VHF/FM two band transceiver, built by Magnavox under the Scope Shield program. Ops 30-87.988mc, 130-173.988mc,with an RF power output of 1 watt, from 12vdc.The OF-185/PRC allows vehicular use. Original cost $3,093.00,NSN 5820-01-288-0626. One reference source states to use 5820-01-248-2852 (PRC-68B(V)2, 130-174mc) and 5820-01-179-7027 (PRC-68B(V), 30-80mc) until current supplies are

exhausted. This would tend to indicate the PRC-128 was intended to replace those radios. Ref.#28

PRC-134 & PRC-135; It is possible that these were developmental models that did not survive and lost in competition to the Racal PRC-139.

PRC-136; No description of this equipment has been found. It is known to have been built by Motorola, & purchased by the US Marine Corps at a cost of $2,347.00.NSN 5820-01-340-9438,no further information. Ref.#28 Another source lists the PRC-136 as follows, VHF/FM hand held adopted for the Marine Corps Crash Fire Rescue System(CFRS), reports to be a replacement for the PRC-94. Ops 130-174mc. Dimensions and appearance are very similar to the PRC-126. Built by Magnavox. No further information. Ref. #34

PRC-138(V)2; HF/VHF, USB/LSB/AME/CW/FM transceiver. Ruggedized set can be used as a manpack, vehicular, base, or transportable station. Features Digital signal processing, ECCM frequency hopping, embedded frequency hopping. Embedded modems for 39 tone 2400bps(MIL-STD-188-110A)(2400bps

TX/74bps RX), FSK 300bps, sync/async terminals, FAX, DMED or other data devices. Encryption for data & voice modes. Multi band & imagery narrowband COMSEC (ANDVT). Ancillary equipment to provide 125,150, & 400watts RF output. Ops 1.6-60mc, with a basic RF power output of 20 watts. Built by Harris Corp. Ref.#33

PRC-139(C); Hand-held VHF/UHF, FM, 3 band transceiver. Developed by Racal Communications. The PRC-139 is in use by the U.S. Air Force, Special Operations Units, & other Services. Features complete compatibility with the PRC-77/VRC-12 family of equipments, Sincgars, & NSA Comsec, FM voice & data modes, embedded digital encryption, & it can be immersed in water to 20 mtrs. Ops 30-88mc,136 174mc, & 403-470mc,from 10vdc. RF power output is a selectable .5 or 2 watts. Weight 3.3 lbs. Accessories known are H-250 handset, battery charger, frequency programmer. Original cost $7,643.75, NSN 5820-01-369-6046. Developed under the Scope Shield II program, it is possible that this radio won out over the entries by Magnavox and Motorola (PRC-134 and PRC-135 respectively). No further information. Ref. Defense & Security Electronics (Sept.95), #28

DA/PRC-261; This radio is identical to the DA/PRC-260 excepting for the addition of a two position bank switch which doubles it's original channel capacity of 6 to 12 channels. Power is derived from internal AA cells providing 15vdc. Built by N.V. Philips Telecommunicatie with known examples being produced Under License of A/S Bravour. Ref.#31

PRC-439; Non-US, backpack portable VHF,FM transceiver. Built in Italy by IRET, the PRC-439 appears to be a low cost alternative, tactical set for combat troops. It features small size, light weight , extreme simplicity of design & use, and is completely self contained to include a 220vac battery charger built into its battery box. The radio and all accessories are combined in a single canvas bag, provided with a strap for shoulder carry. Additionally it is provided with both carrier & 150cps tone squelch, built in battery test function (indicates battery condition with audible tones),& an antenna connection that accepts either a short steel tape antenna or any 50 ohm type. Ops 40-50mc in 25kc steps for a possible 400 channels(optionally any 10mc segment from 30-80mc).RF power output is a selectable 300mw or 3 watts. Requires 12.5vdc normally supplied by 10ea "C" cell rechargeable nicads contained in its battery box. Size 244mmH x 154mmW x 62mmD, 4kg(complete). The PRC-438 though produced for the Italian Armed forces, it is known to have been exported to a number of countries. Quantities of these radios were brought to the US as war trophies from recent "Desert Storm" activities. Note, the photo shone in Ref.#10 is not of a PRC-439, it appears to be instead a PRC-638. Ref.#10, #11, #12

PRC-515 (RT-5047/URC); Back-pack HF USB/LSB/AME/CW transceiver. Designed & built by Collins of Canada, the PRC-515 is also built by Collins International in the U.S. & is in use(in some form) at least by the US Army. In addition these radios were built & used in the former Yugoslavia & possibly other countries. The PRC-515 configuration is just one of many possible, using the basic receiver-exciter unit, due to it's modular/unitized design. In this case, the receiver-exciter module is combined with a control unit & an antenna tuner/amplifier module. Other systems include high & low power man-pack, portable, vehicular, base, & airborne applications. Features of the PRC-515 combination include extreme simplicity of operation, several control panels are available to help tailored to the users needs. The control unit can be removed for remote operation by the user while the set is in backpack-motion. A built in automatic antenna tuner allows use of a very wide variety of antennas including an 8'man-pack whip and any standard vehicular or wire type. Adjustments & re-adjustments are made completely automatically without the attention of the operator or interruption of his communications. The radio can be slipped into mounting tray for vehicular use, & the control unit may be remotely located & used as a control head. Ops 2-30mc in 100cps steps, for a possible 280,000 channels. RF power output is rated 20 watts. Requires 20-32vdc supplied by 1.5ahr rechargeable batteries or vehicular source. Weight is 22lbs while in its backpack role with all accessories. Known options, variations, & accessories include 549A-2 20 watt backpack PA/coupler,548S-1 100 watt station PA & coupler,541C-1 150 watt man-pack, vehicular, or fixed station PA/coupler,548T-1 400 watt PA,490T-2A coupler(400 watt station),718U-5 100 watt portable PA. 671V-6 receiver-exciter unit, updates existing PRC-515 & GRC-22 equipments for split-frequency operation, with the addition of dual frequency controls. 719D-2 is a 20 watt backpack combination of the 671V-2 receiver exiter,377L-2control,& the 549A-2 20 watt PA/coupler, (this may be the Collins designation for a PRC-515). 719D-15 is a 150 watt man-pack station that combines the 671V-2 receiver-exciter unit,377L-2 control unit,549C-1 power amplifier/coupler(150 watt),963A-2 RT pack-frame,963A-3 acc & batt pack frame, BB-451 battery & AS-1320 whip antenna(PRC-47),vehicular installation is effected with the 998W-1 power conditioner, & various mounting trays. HF-125 is a 150 watt fixed station installation that is based on the 719D-15,it combines those accessories with an AC/DC power supply. VC-120(GRC-220),is a 150 watt vehicular set that combines the equipment of a 719D-15 with the appropriate mounting trays, antenna & power conditioner. Other accessories include: H-189 or H-250 handsets. AS-5093 2.3 meter whip antenna (P/N 013-1577-010 96" whip body only, no base), antenna mount (P/N 635-5246-001 or 625-5246-002). AB-652 with mast sections 3ea MS-116, 1ea MS-117, & 1ea MS-118 for vehicular installations. Battery BB-706 25.2 Vdc, nickel cadmium 1.8amhr composed of 21ea cells RC2-C(P/N ST-1106). G-5002/PRC-515, hand crank generator. MT-5167/PRC-515 Packset Harness. Vehicle adapter for use with MT-1029/VRC shock mount. CX-5229/PRC-515 Power Cable. P/N 426-0073-010 control head extension cable. TS-51-9 Test Set. This system of equipment, due to it's extreme complexity of the various combinations, & the mixture of military & manufactures model numbers, has been very difficult to document fully. It appears to have been introduced approx 1977,a Canadian Army order took place in that year for 6.7 million dollars. Ref.#10,#11,#12

PRC-512 (RT-5113); Hand held VHF/FM Transceiver. This is the new Canadian Forces Low-Profile Secure Radio that is also labeled Light Assault Hand-held Radio(LAHR). This radio has been designed under the Tactical Command, Control and Communications System/Integrated Radio Intercommunication System (TCCCS/IRIS) by Computing Devices Canada(CDC) with technology supplied by Racal Radio. Racal variants carry that companies model number of PRM-4725TC which is a variant of the AN/PRC-139 Scope Shield II radio. Features one hand operation with secure or non-secure data or voice modes. Channelized operation with up to 14 channels, each of which can be loaded for personality and frequency. Programming is via J-5250/PRC-521 Interface unit, or cloned from another PRC-521 with the appropriate cable. Encryption Keys are loaded using a standard Key Encryption Key (KEK) fill device such as KYK-13 or AN/CTZ-10. Retransmit operation is possible when sets are configured to do so. Ops 30-87.9875mc in 12.5kc steps. RF power output is a selectable .5 or 2 watts. Range 500m(short antenna), or 3km(long antenna). Requires 10dvc nominal. Accessories include: H-5034/U Handset (NSN 5965-99-0125), AS-5218 short rubber ducky type antenna (NSN 5985-01-368-5199). AS-5218 long antenna(NSN 5985-99-555-0124). BB-521 nickel cadmium battery (NSN 6140-21-911-6032). PP-5417 battery charger-analyzer (NSN 130-21-912-9120) which includes MT-5321/G battery tray(NSN 6130-21-912-9102), interconnect cable (NSN 6130-21-912-9103), and AC power cable (NSN 6130-21-913-0602).Fill Cable Crypto (NSN 5995-21-913-4874). Cloning Cable (NSN 5995-01-431-2292). Carry pouch with belt and shoulder straps. Production began in 1994 Calgary Canada under contract no. 4484 and units are in use by the Canadian DND. NSN 5820-21-911-5982.

PRC-803/RT-8004; Handheld, UHF, AM transceiver. Known to be in use by the Royal Australian Air Force. This radio is believed to be of the Downed Airman's Emergency type and possibly of commercial origin. It has also been associated with air base ground control and security operations. Encountered examples have been painted industrial yellow and were provided with the following frequencies installed: 257.8 (MTAF), 246.6 (Surface Movement Control) and 259.8 (After Hours Emergency). Known features include cast aluminum cabinet construction, four channel capacity, and the use of a Rubber Duckie type antenna. Order number 5820-66-091'8143' 'RAAF', no further information. Ref.#31

 

 

ADDENDA, PRC DESIGNATED MILITARY RADIO EQUIPMENT;

Part III, PRC-77A/25 > PRC-9610. by Dennis Starks

Forward,

I have just completed compiling the following data for inclusion with all previously posted info on this subject. Those who have the printed text may print this material with the format shown below.

PRC-77A/25 IR; Non-US version of the US PRC-77. This variant is produced in Iran by Communications Industries Group, Tehran. While physically identical to US versions, these variants feature 25kc channel spacing for a possible 1,840 channels between 30 and 75.975mc, and have been updated with a digital synthesizer, and all silicon semiconductors. All accessories are the same as for standard PRC-77 versions

with the additional availability of the AM-6277/IR to increase audio output.

Ref.#12C

PRC-105/A; Iranian VHF/FM backpack transceiver. The PRC-105/A Composed of RT-105 transceiver and ancillary audio and antenna equipment which are common with PRC-25 and PRC-77 equipments.

Features: four-place rotary knob frequency selection, and selectable RF power outputs. Ops 36-76mc with a possible 1600 channels. RF output power is a selectable .6, 2.5, or 5 watts. Size: 69 x 285 x 290mm at 3.6kg. Accessories include: AA-20 portable combination speaker/audio amplifier, H-10 handset, HB-370 harness and antenna bag. Produced in Iran by Communications Industries Group, Tehran, beginning in 1987. It is similar in size and appearance to the PRC-122 of the same country.

Ref.#12C

PRC-113/RT-1319; Backpack VHF/UHF,AM transceiver developed as part of Pacer Speak program for the three US services, it is compatible with Vinson COMSEC systems. Advanced features of this radio include LCD frequency & mode display, keypad control of frequency, squelch, power output, & DF tone. In addition an optional ECCOM capability is available, at least Air Force models have been equipped with HAVE QUICK anti-jamming facilities. The PRC-113 is a tactical radio set, and when combined with various accessories, it is intended to replace a number of earlier systems including the PRC-66, GRC-153, GRC-155, MRC-107, & MRC-108. The basic RT unit (RT-1319) can be used with numerous adapting equipments to form a variety of VRC,GRC & MRC types including the GRC-206, TRC-176, & VRC-83.

Ops 116-149.975mc AM (FM on request), in 25kc steps, for a possible 1360 channels (8 channels presettable), and 225-399.975mc AM (FM optional), in 25kc steps for a possible 7000 channels (8 channels presettable). RF power output is a selectable 2 watts(low) or 10 watts (high). Requires BA-5590 (lithium battery) or BB-590 (rechargeable nicad battery). The basic RT-1319 has been combined with various ancillary equipment to form several GRC, VRC, and TRC type systems. Some of these include GRC-206. VRC-83(V) when combined with a 30w RF amplifier, audio amplifier, and companion speaker. TRC-176 as a portable table top, or rack mount system. The PRC-113 & its family of equipment entered service 1983, over 54 million dollars is expected to be spent by the projects completion.

Ref.#12,#29

PRC-117/RT-1406; Backpack, VHF, FM, ECCOM transceiver. The PRC-117 is a microprocessor-controlled random frequency hopping (any 5mc band segment) radio set designed for use in electronic warfare environment. It features built in self-test, simplex or half duplex operation, channel scanning, true dual frequency repeater operation with back to back units, & a clear-net function that alerts the user while in frequency hopping or secure mode that a conventional operator is trying to contact him. All cables, audio & antenna accessories are interchangeable with PRC-25/77 types. Ops 30-89.975mc in 25kc steps with 8 preset channels. RF power output a selectable 1 or 10 watts (.1 or 10 watts optional). Requires 12v supplied by internal rechargeable nicad batteries. Size 76mmH x 200mmW x 280mmD, 5.8kg. The VRC-94A(V) combines the basic RT-1406 with the ancillary equipment for vehicular operation at power levels of 100mw, 1/10watts (VRC-94A(V)-1, and 50 watts(VRC-94A(V)-3) from 12 or 24vdc. First introduced in 1983 a D series is also reported to be available. Operable with Comsec equipment TSEC/KY-57 using

J-3987A/PRC-117 interface unit. Introduced 1982 by Harris Corp. The PRC-117 is believed to be in use by US forces.

Ref.#12,#31

PRC-122: Iranian VHF/FM pack-pack transceiver. Composed of the RT-122 transceiver, this radio appears to be an updated version of the PRC-105/A of this same country. Features and accessories are the same

As that radio except for: Frequency range of 30-80mc with a possible 2000 channels spaced 25kc apart. 9 present channel capacity, and selectable RF power outputs of .1 and 4 watts. Hidden LED display for night

operation. Ancillary equipment are available to allow vehicular or ground operation as the VRC/GRC-105. These include RA-102 RF amplifier, and the MU-292 software controlled antenna matching unit.

Produced in Iran by Communications Industries Group, Tehran beginning in 1989. It is very similar in size and appearance to the PRC-105/A of the same country.

Ref.#12C

PRC-127/RT-1594; Handheld VHF, FM transceiver. This equipment is a slightly Modified Bendix King commercial business band radio. These modifications Include a 2.5 watt RF output verses 5 watts, and the omission of the scan switch. Though it was most likely intended for various security uses, it is known to have been used in a tactical role in recent Desert Storm activities. Features include 14 preset channels, front panel key pad for entry of channel frequencies, LCD display (a sliding/removable door protects the key pad & LCD display when not in use), optional scan & call guard tone squelch, & clone capabilities (some PRC-127's are provided without the key pad). Ops on any of 14 preset channels 136-160mc. RF power output is

Rated 2.5 watts. Requires 12vdc as supplied by either rechargeable nicad battery packs (two ea. provided), or a battery box containing 8ea "AA" alkaline batteries. Size 7.8 x 2.5 x 1.52", 1.5lbs (with battery).

Accessories include AS-3960 helical rubber antenna, speaker/mic & nylon case/cover, nylon carry holster, dual rate automatic drop-in battery charger, 2ea nicad battery packs & 1ea alkaline battery pack. The PRC-127 entered service in approx 1990. The commercial 5 watt/ Scanning, & UHF versions are also known to be in use. Beginning in 1995 a very similar, if not the same radio began production in Sweden by Shadow Technologies as the SFH-41 Chameleon. Two frequency hopping versions are in production by Transcrypt International as the PH-26 and PH-27 Phantoms. Original cost $910.00, NSN 5820-01-266-5964.

Ref.#12C,#26,#28,#30,#31

PRC-132; Backpack HF/VHF, SSB/FM transceiver. Built by Loral-Conic TerraCom (formerly Southcom), the PRC-132 is a small lightweight tactical Radio intended for use by Special Forces teams. Features extremely small size and light weight, selectable RF power output levels, 80 pre-programmable duplex channels, half duplex operation, full compatibility with all current encryption devices, three extra internal card slots for optional encryption, spread spectrum and or Data modem, and FM operation from 20-50mc.

Ops 1.6-50mc with selectable RF output levels of 5, 10, 20, and 50 watts. Requires 10-16vdc. Weight 16.1lbs (5kg). Reported to have been fielded with U.S. Navy Seal Teams, and U.S. Army Special Forces. Radios marked with the commercial model number of M50 are known to have seen service with at least one U.S. National Guard unit.

Ref.#28,#12C

PRC-138(V)2; HF/VHF, USB/LSB/AME/CW/FM transceiver. Ruggedized set can be used as a manpack, vehicular, base, or transportable station. Features Digital signal processing, LCD data display, keyboard

Data entry, ECCM frequency hopping, embedded frequency hopping. Embedded modems for 39 tone 2400bps (MIL-STD-188-110A)(2400bps TX/74bps RX), FSK 300bps, sync/async terminals, FAX, DMED or other data devices. Encryption for data & voice modes. Multi band & imagery narrow band COMSEC (ANDVT). Ancillary equipment to provide 125, 150, & 400 watts RF output. Ops 1.6-60mc, with a basic RF power output of 20 watts (HF) and 10 watts(VHF). Size: 264 x 77 x 332mm. Built by Harris Corp.

Ref.#33,#12C

PRC-138 (V)X; One description of this equipment follows that of the PRC-138(V)2 with the following addition. In April of 1995, the U.S. Special Operations Command awarded Harris an $85 million contract to supply these radios sets for use in the 'Improved Special Operations Forces High Frequency Manpack Radio System (ISHMRS).

Ref.#12C

Another, possibly incorrect description follows: Hand-held VHF, FM transceiver. A development contract was awarded to Harris Corp. early in 1995 by the U.S.Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) for this

"next generation" of hand-held secure tactical radios. This article also states that the PRC-138 has been in use by Special Operations Forces for some time. The contract will add new (classified) functions & advance capabilities. No further information.

Ref. Defense & Security Electronics, (Sept.95)

PRC-139(V)(C); The description of this equipment follows that of the PRC-139(C) with the additional notes that selected band operation is accomplished by the selection of a particular internal transceiver module. Features 14 channel capacity with 25 or 12.5kc channel spacing, channel by channel programmed crypto rates of 12 or 16kbits/s for compatibility with Federal and Military systems, internal embedded COMSEC device for US type1 Vinson encryption. Options include an internal speaker/mic, and internal digital data display with keyboard for programmability, commercial COMSEC for non-U.S. users. Ancillary equipment is available to allow hand-held, mobile, base station, and tactical repeater operation.

The GRC-238 is a hand transportable base station that combines two PRC- 139s with a cabinet, digital display and control circuits. An RF power amplifier with selectable output levels of 5/16/40 watts. Operation can be from any 10-32vdc source, or an AC source of 110/220/240 volts. Size 197 x 254 x 368mm, 6.3kg. The TRC-199 is a tactical repeater formed from two PRC-139 units combined with control circuits. A field tunable duplexer allows for single antenna operation with frequency separation at 3% of the operating frequency or 4mc typical. Source voltage is the same as that for the GRC-238. RF power output levels are a selectable 2 or 10 watts with an optional 40-watt amplifier available. The system can be housed in a cushioned cage for air dropping. Size 197 x 254 x 368mm at 25.4kg. Ref.#12C

PRC-140; Backpack, VHF/UHF, FM/AM multi band ECCOM transceiver. The PRC-140 was developed by Motorola as part of the Saturn (Second-Generation Antijam Tactical UHF Radio for NATO) system & is intended by them to replace the PRC-113. Features VHF/UHF (optional 3 bands), FM/AM/Data modes, compatibility with VINSON, SINCGARS, HAVE QUICK & HAVE QUICK II comsec systems, 30 active or 30 single-channel preset operation, built in test facilities, selectable RF output power, optional embedded encryption, fast and slow frequency hop modes. Ops 116-149.975mc and 225-399.935mc. RF power outputs of 2w(low) and 10w (high). Size 76mmH x 264mmW x 229mmD (348mm with battery), weight 5.85kg with battery. Can use either BA-5590 or BA-590 batteries. Ref. Motorola product literature 1995, Ref#12C

PRC-436;Non-US,handheld VHF,FM transceiver. Built in Italy by IRET, The PRC-436 seems to be an improvement over the PRC-416,& intended for the same purpose. With the added features below, it can be easily held in one hand to be used. Features include digital synthesis with three-place rotary knob frequency selection, built in loud speaker/mic, external audio accessory connection, & an automatic battery save circuit reduces current drain during no signal conditions to 15ma. Ops 40-50mc in 25kc steps, for a possible 400 channels (optionally any 10mc segment of 30-90mc). RF power output is 500mw. Requires approx 12vdc supplied by 9ea 500-mAhr nicad batteries contained in a lower battery box. Size 245mmH x 90mmW x 40mmD,1.1kg (with battery & antenna). 1995 production parameters are reported as any 10mc band

between 30-90mc optional. Selectable RF power outputs of 1w(high) and .5w (low). Known accessories include, long steel tape antenna, & a short rubber helical antenna.

Ref.#12,#12C

PRC-515(RU-20); Non-US, HF backpack SSB/AME/CW transceiver. Built in Croatia by RIZ Professional Electronic Group, Zagreb. This model PRC-515 does not appear to have any affiliation with other radios

of this same model number. Features include, will survive submersion in water up to 1mtr for up to two hours. Using nicad batteries, a mission operational time of up to 12 hours can be expected. For extended field operation, a hand crank generator is available. Ops: 2-29.9999mc with a possible 28,000 channels spaced at 100cps. USB, LSB, AME, CW, and data modes of operation. 20 watts RF output. Size: 229mmH x 321mmW x 76mmD at 5.7kg. Accessories are available for vehicular operation at power levels of 100 and 400 watts.

Ref.#12C

PRC-624; Israeli VHF/FM hand-held transceiver. Built by Tadiran, the PRC- 624 was designed as a tactical radio for intra-team communications. Features LCD data display, Built in loud speaker and microphone, 10 preset channel capacity, selectable RF power output, data compatible at 10bits/s to 20kbits/s, and expected battery life of 17hrs (at 2w) and 24hrs (at .5w). Ops 30-88mc in 25kc steps providing a possible 2320 channels. RF power output is rated at 2w (high) and .5w (low). Size: 180 x 40 x 80mm at less than 1kg (with battery & antenna). Accessories include external audio devices compatible with other standard types, option pre-packaged lithium or standard AA alkaline types.

Ref.#12C

PRC-730; Non-US Backpack, VHF, FM, frequency hopping transceiver. The PRC-730 number may be the result of a typographical error in Ref.#12. The actual number may be PRC-370. Built in Israel by Tadiran, this radio is part of their CNR-900 series of equipment. It can be combined with numerous ancillary equipments to provide portable, ground, vehicular, & aircraft installations in much the same manor as the US PRC-119. These include the VRC-742 short, & VRC-745 long-range vehicular radios, CNR-900U aircraft, & a dual transceiver VRC-1465 for long range repeater operation. Features include digital frequency display, keypad entry of frequency channel & mode (these functions can also be entered

from an external loader or cloned from another already programmed set). Full band frequency hopping with ten presets. Data transmission at 16kbs,& ten presentable voice or data channels. Ops 30-89.975mc in 25k steps for a possible 2,320 channels. RF output power is a selectable 4 watts or 250mw (50 watts in high power vehicular role). Requires 12.9-14, or 24vdc dependent on the installation. Size 85mmH x 240mmW x 310mmD, 7.5kg (8kg with ECCOM). It is possible that this equipment is being supplied by Tadiran

on a second source basis to the U.S. Sincgars Program, specifically the RT-1439. Ref.#12, #12C

PRC-770; VHF/FM pack-pack transceiver. The PRC-770 is reported to be a fully updated version of the PRC-77 built by Napco International. It is identical in all respects to the PRC-77 and all internal modules are interchangeable except the A-40 and crystal filters. Improvements over the standard PRC-77 include 25kc channel spacing, and fully updated circuit design. This radio is reported to have been in production for the U.S. Army, and for 50 other countries as of mid 1996.

Ref.#12C

PRC-999K; Korean VHF/FM ECCM backpack transceiver. Built in Korea by Gold Star Precision, the PRC-999K is designed to be a frequency hopping drop-in replacement for the PRC-77 and PRC-1077. Features digital data display, keyboard data entry, data transmission capabilities(75-16kbits), scan and retransmit modes, remote control ability, 6 channel presets, and ancillary equipment to allow vehicular operation (VRC-946K, -947K, -949K). Selectable RF output power. Secure modes of Sincgars V in SC mode, ECCM FH mode, and frequency hopping at 100-channels/second full or partial band. Ops 30-87.975mc in 25kc steps. RF output powers of .3, 5, and 10 watts (selectable). Size: 240H x 90W x 290Dmm, weight 5.8kg (less battery).

Ref.#12C

PRC-1060; VHF/FM hand-held transceiver. Built by Datron World Communications (formerly Trans World), the PRC-1060 is a ruggedized tactical set that is submersible to 1mtr without damage. Features LCD data display, built in loud speaker and mic, 4 channel scanning, selectable RF power output, 12 hour mission battery life expectancy, and external encryption options. Ops 30-87.975mc in 25kc steps. RF power output levels of 100mw (low) and 2 watts (high). Size 254mmH x 88.9mmW x 44.5mmD at 1.2kg (with H-4595 battery). The designation of PRC-1060 is a commercial model number and not a military AN type.

Ref.#12C

PRC-1070; VHF/FM hand-held transceiver. The PRC-1070 is basically the same radio as the PRC-1060 offered by the same company. It shares the same operational and physical parameters with the additional feature of an internal card slot that will allow full upgrading to PRC-1080 specifications with ECCOM/COMSEC capabilities. For more information see PRC-1060 and PRC-1080. Ref.#12C

PRC-1080; VHF/FM hand-held ECCOM transceiver. The PRC-1080 is the same radio as the PRC-1070 excepting that it is already provided with internal ECCOM options. Its operational and physical parameters are the same as those for the PRC-1060. Features built in digital 16 kbits-voice encryption, frequency hopping, and 9 preset channel capacity. The designations of PRC-1060,-1070, and -1060 are commercial

Model numbers and not a military AN type.

Ref.#12C

PRC-2250; HF LSB/USB/AM/CW/Data portable transceiver. Built by SGC of Bellevue Washington, the PRC-2250 is a ruggedized version of their SG-2000 Multi Mission transceiver. Apparently intended as a low budget alternative system for portable, base, or vehicular operation. Features full data display on an LCD screen, optional computer control via RS-232 connection, full band scan with a possible 100 channels preset, .1/1/3/5kc frequency steps, remote control head, complete telephone line control via RS-232 serial port connection, optional SGC encryption system. Ops 500kc-30mc (receive), 1.6-30mc (transceive) with -/+10cps frequency stability. RF power output is rated at 125watts from 13.6vdc (800ma rec/16amps TX voice). Size: 117 x 254 x 380mm, 5.4kg (less shock mount). Known accessories include SG-230 (Smart tuner, computer controlled automatic), SG-303T tactical mobile antenna. The designation of PRC-2250 is apparently a commercial model number and not an official AN/type.

Ref.#12C

PRC-5620/RT-5600; Turkish VHF/FM Pack-pack transceiver. Built in Turkey by ASELSAN Military Electronics Industries, the PRC-5620 is a front line tactical transceiver part of the multi role PRC/VRC-5600 systems. The basic RT-5600 can be combined with ancillary equipment to form the PRC-5620 backpack, or VRC-5621,-5624, and -5630 tank radios, and the VRC-5622, -5623, -5628, and -5629 vehicular units. Ops 30-75.975mc in 25kc steps, with up to 10 channels being presetable. RF power outputs dependent on the configuration are rated at 25mw, 250mw, 2, 2.5, 10, and 30 watts.

>Ref.#12C

>PRC-6516(EC); Racal/Cougarnet VHF/FM (highband) secure hand-held transceiver. Built by Racal and derived from the Cougar Personal Radio, the PRC-6516 has been included in the U.S. Airforce Scope Shield program, and is the basis for their entry into the Scope Shield II program. Features digital voice encryption with built in encryption modules, security enhancement with 2 code combinations and a zeroise

position, frequency and crypto codes are changed by programmer or key/fill unit, Self test functions with multiple warning tones, simi duplex operation, selectable RF output power levels, 10 preset channel capacity, and an array of ancillary equipment to all hand-held, vehicular, base, and man-pack portable systems. Ops on optional bands of 68-88mc, 132-174mc, or 403-470mc. RF output power is 2watts (optional amplifiers available for 10 and 20 watts). Listed power supply voltage is 13.6vdc but this may reflect a system voltage requirement and the actual RT operational voltage may be less. This system is said to be in use by the UK Army, Royal Marines, and numerous overseas forces. It received a U.S. NSA endorsement in April of 1992 (132-174mc version), and has been subject to $22.7 million in U.S. Scope Shield and Scope Shield II purchases.

Ref.#12C

PRC-9610; Turkish VHF/FM/Data backpack transceiver. Built in Turkey by ASELSEN, the PRC-9610 is the basic configuration of the PRC/VRC-9600 series systems. The basic RT unit was designed to be combined with various ancillary components to form a variety of multi role systems including the vehicular VRC-9611(5watt), VRC-9612 (50watt), VRC-9614 (dual transceiver, 5 and 50watt). For use in armored vehicles, systems include VRC-9621 (5watt), VRC-9622 (50watt), VRC-9624 (dual transceiver 5 and

50watt), and the VRC-9625 (dual transceiver 50watts each). Features include digital data display with keyboard data entry, data transmission modes, optional encryption, frequency hopping at 200hops/s, and variable RF output power. Ops 30-88mc in 25kc steps, with optional expansion to 108mc. RF power output is an adjustable 100uw,10mw,800mw, and 5 watts (50 watts with optional PA-9601 amplifier). Accessories include PA-9601 50 watt amplifier, LI-9601 wire line interface unit, VR-9601 and RC-9601 wire line remote control units, KD-9601 code key distribution unit, FG-9601 code loading unit. Ref.#12C

 

 

The proceeding is an updated version of an article that originally appeared in the "Military Collector Group Post"; an international email magazine dedicated to the preservation of history and the equipment that made it. Unlimited circulation of this material is authorized as long as the proper credit to the original author(s) and publisher (or the group) is included. For more information concerning this group or membership, contact Dennis Starks at.... [email protected].

 

W4XE 2/2002

Recent viewings.

 

 

 

Home | Up

This site was last updated 01/02/07