RCA Model WF-12A GM Survey Meter (ca. 1955-1960)

The Model WF-12A geiger-mueller (GM) survey meter was built for the Radio Corporation of America (RCA) by Atomic Research Corporation (ARC) located in Colorado. It probably dates from the mid to late 1950s.

Similar to the WF-10A except that the WF-12A uses an external probe.

According to Fred Zobel, who helped oversee production, ARC produced approximately 240 meters per day for RCA. The production crew consisted of 40 women and one man.

Notice the similarity of design with Atomic Research Corporation's survey meters. The similarity of name (RCA vs. ARC) seems to be an odd coincidence.

The detector response is indicated by the meter, audio output via headphone, and red flashing light (to left of handle).

When originally purchased, the WF-12A would have come with a carrying strap, radioactive sample, headphone, "Prospecting for Uranium" booklet and the Operating Instructions.

Detector: GM tube. Victoreen thin-walled 1B85.

Range: 0-100, 0-1,000 and 0-10,000 cpm. One mR/hr = 2000 cpm approximately.

Size: 7.75" x 8.5" x 3.5"

Batteries: Two 67.5 volt B batteries (e.g., Burgess XX45) and three 1.5 volt D cells

Weight: 5 pounds

References

• Fred Zobel. Personal communication.
• Advertisement. Nucleonics. April 1958, p 134.
• Preliminary Operating Instructions for WF-10A, WF-11A, WF-12A and WF-14A Geiger Counters. RCA. Copyright date 1955.