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Voice of America - Technical
Transmitters
2 x Collins 207B-1 35kW shortwave transmitters
1 x RCA BTA-150A 150kW medium wave transmitter
Aerials
For the first year of transmissions a 150,000 cubic foot helium balloon aerial, flying at an altitude of 900’ above Courier was used.
However, after this broke away from its moorings on a number of occasions an inverted delta aerial system was installed between the ship’s two masts.
Four inverted pyramid ‘Trylon’ aerials situated on the foredeck of the ship were used for the shortwave transmissions
Studio
The Courier had a small studio and control centre for use if programme announcements or originations were needed. Otherwise pre-recorded programmes were played.
Programme material was sent to the ship via a VHF (FM) link from a receiving site south of Rhodes City.
Above: the programme control centre on board Courier. The unit on the right was used to playback the pre-recorded programme material.
Top: two views of the Collins short wave transmitters on board Courier
Above: the RCA medium wave transmitter on board Courier
QSL Card
Radio station engineering departments issue QSL cards to verify reception reports received from listeners
Above: Courier flying the original balloon aerial
Top right: one of the helium balloons being prepared for launch
Bottom right: one of the ‘Trylon’ shortwave aerials on the foredeck of Courier
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Right: Shortwave aerials on the foredeck of the Courier and, at the stern, an unsuccessful attempt to shield receiving equipment from extreme RF radiation voltage from the powerful transmitters
