Superb New Old Stock RCA 5819 Radiotron photomultiplier / multiplier phototube, Made in U.S.A.
This example is in exceptional mint, unused condition and comes complete with its original RCA Electron Tube box, original internal protective packing and RCA paperwork.
The RCA 5819 is an important early head-on photomultiplier developed specifically for scintillation-counter applications and the detection and measurement of nuclear particle radiation. RCA documentation dates its introduction to 1949.
The tube has a large head-on photosensitive surface, visible internal electron-multiplier structure and 14-pin base with centre locating post.
Period RCA information records the 5819 as having S-9 spectral response and extremely high multiplication for detecting very low light levels.
The type became established in nuclear and scientific instrumentation. Published research records RCA 5819 tubes used with NaI(Tl) scintillation crystals for gamma-ray measurements, and the type was also employed in neutron detectors and uranium-analysis instrumentation.
An outstanding example for a collector of early nuclear instrumentation, vintage scientific equipment, photomultipliers or RCA electron tubes.
Features & Details
* Manufacturer: RCA – Radio Corporation of America * Type: 5819 * Radiotron Electron Tube * Multiplier phototube / photomultiplier (PMT) * Made in U.S.A. * Head-on photocathode construction * Developed for scintillation-counter applications * S-9 spectral response * 14-pin base with centre locating post * Original RCA branded base sleeve * New Old Stock / unused * Original RCA Electron Tube box * Original protective packing * Original RCA protection/warranty paperwork * Excellent display-quality example
For comparison, the Smithsonian National Museum of American History holds RCA 5819 photomultipliers in its collection and records the tube as approximately 5¾ inches (14.6cm) overall by 2⅛ inches (5.4cm).
Condition
New Old Stock – mint/unused condition.
The tube appears exceptionally well preserved, with clean glass, bright internal components, excellent original RCA base markings and clean pins.
Supplied in its original RCA box with original packing and paperwork. The cardboard box naturally shows some storage and age-related wear, as photographed.
Although NOS and believed to be unused, due to the age and specialist nature of this photomultiplier it has not been electrically tested, and no guarantee is made regarding measured sensitivity or calibration.
Please study all photographs as they form an important part of the description.
Shipping & Handling
This is a fragile vintage scientific tube and will be exceptionally well protected and securely packed for transit.
UK delivery by tracked service.
International shipping available through the eBay Global Shipping Programme.