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CBL1

 
    
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The CBL1 is a double diode output pentode from Mullard that is fitted with the side contact base, for UK use the CBL31 on the IO base was more common, both are electrically identical. The Ct8 base was mainly used in Europe and it is possible that this valve was part made by Philips in Holland.
The aim of this high mutual conductance valve was to reduce the number of devices in wireless receivers. The CBL1 has a 200 mA heater requirement for heater chain use in receivers without mains transformers. The diodes would demodulate the signal and generate AGC and the resultant audio would drive the output stage directly. This implies strong signals to derive the drive voltage. It is safe to say that this valve was aimed directly at the low cost local station receiver market. The CBL31 was electrically identical but on an IO base. The design probably dates from the mid to late 1930s. The CL4 is virtually the output pentode section of the CBL1 in stand alone form. The EBL1 takes the same high gain idea and translates it for the higher voltages available in receivers with mains transformers.
The cathode resistor is specified as 167 Ohms, the output load as 4,500 Ohms and under these conditions an output of 4 Watts at 10% total distortion is possible.
The output pentode is at the top and below the centre mica can be seen the screen that sits around the diode anodes.
The anode and screen side view.
A clearer view.
The top mica and components. the heat radiating fins are on the top of the control grid. The connection of the top cap to the control grid is also clear.
The oval shape of the anode with the suppressor grid within seen above the diode screen that is connected to the suppressor grid supports..
The classic envelope is 44 mm in diameter and, excluding the Ct8 base pins, is 123 mm tall.
References: Data-sheet, 1043 & 1040. Type CBL1 was first introduced in 1938. See also 1938 adverts.

 

Pin Connections
Ct8
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
tc
m
h
h
k
a(d1)
a(d2)
nc
a
g1

 

Absolute Maximum Operating Conditions
Pentode
Vh
Ah
Va
Vs
Vg
mAa
mAs
ra
gm
44.0
0.2
200
200
-8.5
45.0
6.0
35,000
8.0
Thanks to Frank Philipse for supplying the above PDF datasheet.
Updated January 06, 2022.
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