Retro Packard Bell Find

[wa2ise]

The schematics of most AA5 AM tube radios are pretty much all the same.




BTW, the only thing in common with Packard Bell radios and Packard Bell PCs is the name. Someone bought the rights to the brand name.... Brand names don't mean much anymore.

[Chad Hauris]

Most of the AC/DC sets which have exposed chassis or antenna connections have the chassis isolated from the circuit ground with a capacitor to minimize the shock hazard. Most that have the power line right to the chassis have an interlock and an insulated cabinet and knobs so you shouldn't get shocked.
I would replace all capacitors though and check the wiring as the isolation capacitor can short and make the chassis truly "hot".


Although, some of the earlier AC/DC's do have an exposed chassis and powerline right to the chassis. I would not even use these without an isolation transformer.