Original vintage RCA 6199 multiplier phototube / photomultiplier (PMT), supplied with the period RCA Electron Tube box shown.
The RCA 6199 was specifically designed as a high-sensitivity photomultiplier for scintillation counters used in the detection and measurement of nuclear radiation.
According to the original RCA technical data, the 6199 is a 10-stage head-on photomultiplier with an S-11 spectral response and a flat circular semitransparent photocathode. Its maximum spectral response occurs at approximately 4400 Å (440 nm), making it particularly sensitive to blue-rich scintillation light.
RCA specifically recommended the 6199 for use with scintillating materials including anthracene and thallium-activated sodium iodide [NaI(Tl)], the latter being extensively used in gamma-ray and nuclear radiation detection.
The tube retains its large head-on photosensitive window, RCA 12-pin base and original laboratory identification markings.
Provenance
This photomultiplier was removed from scientific research equipment originating from facilities at either Harwell or Rutherford Laboratories, where it formed part of an important research project.
The tube was working when the equipment was decommissioned.
To the best of my knowledge this tube remains in fully working order; however, I am unable to test it with the specialist equipment required and therefore cannot guarantee its present performance.
If the buyer is not satisfied with the operation of the tube, I am happy to provide a full refund or, where available, replace it with an equivalent tube.
Features & Details
* Manufacturer: RCA – Radio Corporation of America * Type: 6199 * Multiplier phototube / photomultiplier (PMT) * Head-on construction * 10-stage electron multiplier * Spectral response: S-11 * Peak response: approximately 440 nm * Semitransparent circular photocathode * Minimum photocathode diameter: 1.24 inches * 12-pin small-shell duodecal base * Maximum anode supply rating: 1250 V * Intended for scintillation counters and low-level light detection * Suitable for nuclear radiation detection instrumentation * Historically specified for anthracene and NaI(Tl) scintillators * Used laboratory component * Period RCA Electron Tube box included * Working when decommissioned * Currently untested
The original RCA data sheet is dated July 1958, placing this particular design firmly within the classic period of early nuclear instrumentation.
Condition
Used vintage laboratory condition – boxed.
This is a previously used scientific photomultiplier and not New Old Stock.
The glass/photosensitive face appears intact and the base and pins are in good condition for their age. There are remnants of the original black protective material around the circumference of the face, together with laboratory identification markings on the base.
The RCA cardboard box is included and shows age, storage and handling wear. I would describe this as the accompanying period RCA box rather than claim it is definitely the tube’s original factory box.
Working when decommissioned and believed to remain operational, but presently untested.
Please study all photographs carefully as they form an important part of the description.
Shipping & Handling
• Packing: will be safely wrapped • UK delivery: Tracked • International: Available worldwide via eBay Global Shipping Programme • Combined shipping: Yes—happy to combine postage on multiple items • Local collection: Possible by prior arrangement—message first.
Buyers please note
All buyers – If you see something of interest in my listings, please don’t hesitate to make an offer. I believe I have priced my items fairly; however, I don’t always get it right. Feel free to contact me or submit a reasonable offer and I will give it serious consideration. I’m here to sell at the end of the day.
International buyers – Due to the way eBay handles international transactions, postage is charged on a per-item basis. I understand this can be frustrating if you wish to purchase more than one item. If you would like multiple items, please contact me with the item numbers and I will combine them into a single listing. This will reduce the overall postage and handling costs into one transaction.