Müller-TH-valve-simplex rectifier

Datecirca 1920

Inventory NumberVT4746

ClassificationRectifier

Subject

Maker C. H. F. Müller Röntgenwerk 1896 - 1927

Cultural Region

Place of Origin

Dimensions18 x 83 x 18 cm (7 1/16 x 32 11/16 x 7 1/16 in.)
bulb: 18 cm (7 1/16 in.)

Material

DescriptionA long rectifier similar in shape to an x-ray tube, with the cathode and anode coming from opposite ends of the bulb. High vacuum, hot cathode tube with its two ends shaped like lightbulb screws.

Signedon cathode: [unreadable] / Stamped on the bulb: MADE IN GERMANY.

Curatorial RemarksIMPORTANT Professor Robert G. Arns called this the most important rectifier of the group. Müller was the first to sell high vacuum rectifiers. The company was taken over by Philips in 1924.

FunctionThis is a rectifier to be used in conjunction with an x-ray tube. When powered by AC, many hot-cathode x-ray tubes operated badly or could be damaged by the passing of an inverse current. The rectifier only allows current to flow in one direction, and when used with other elements can convert AC to DC.

ProvenanceFrom the Harvard Medical School.