Talk:USNS Range Tracker (T-AGM-1)/@comment-174.72.213.170-20180517211926

In 1961 I was involved in the modifications of the USNS RANGE TRACKER. There is very little information I can find as to what was installed and changed to make this a qualified tracking ship! Quite a lot of the electronics was already installed when I got the call to continue with the installations of the major large klystrons in the electronic power room. The Electronic tech/technician working on the project at that time had an emergency at home and had to leave the project. I arrived on the scene to find most of the equipment partially completed. After many hours of construction installations, it was time to test the equipment. On first application of power to the Two large klystrons capable of producing approx. 10,000 wats each, I found a common strap had not been applied from the ship power which was delta to the Wye needed for the equipment. This solved the problem. After several more minor checks the order was to bring one transmitter up to full power. This was not possible as the antenna had a design flaw. (It was delayed in shipment until we were out at sea trials.). Only about 2100 wats could be realized before arcing would occur. Wit maximum without arc was realized the test was completed along with other minor problems solved quickly and ready for sea trials. The day of trials was quite eventful. It lasted throughout the night etc. When it came to my section trials I was ordered to bring up the power! After the stated 2k was reached a large arc was visible at the antenna. The Captain in charge sent a runner down to find out if I had a welder working at this time! I explained the situation that I had been advised to not go over 2k but since they had ordered full power I was trying to follow orders. Later, the antenna was delivered by helicopter and installed. The power came up properly. There is quite a lot more to this story but this is an interesting part of the history of the USNS RANGE TRACKER! It was a great pleasure to be one of the persons to make it a success! Roy Holland Sr.