Kenotron rectifier
Datecirca 1925
Inventory NumberVT4739
ClassificationRectifier
Subject
Maker
General Electric Company
1892-present
Cultural Region
Place of Origin
Dimensions10.3 x 23.5 x 10.3 cm (4 1/16 x 9 1/4 x 4 1/16 in.)
bulb: 10.3 cm (4 1/16 in.)
bulb: 10.3 cm (4 1/16 in.)
Material
DescriptionGE Kenotron model KR-6. Hot cathode high-vacuum rectifier tube with a smooth, transparent glass body. The filament-like cathode at the center is completely surrounded by a plate that constitutes the anode.
Signedon glass body: GE
Inscribedon glass body: K.R.6 / Coolidge Tube / Made in U.S.A.
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.
The "Kenotron" series of rectifier was developed by Saul Dushman of GE beginning in 1914 with the KR-3.
The "Kenotron" series of rectifier was developed by Saul Dushman of GE beginning in 1914 with the KR-3.
ProvenanceFrom the Harvard Medical School.
Radio Corporation of America
Date: circa 1921
Object number: RS0722
