Cleared space was replaced with following radio equipment : 01) Command Observation tank Intercom System . This resulted in Tigers' downgrading, but it was insignificant when compared to what command Tiger did. Such Tigers were either in Battalion or Company category. These tanks were in contact with either headquarters or Air support units. Such units would pass information to Command Tank ,who in turn, issued respective orders to lower formations, on UKW ( Ultra High Frequency) whose transmitters had an approximate range of 4 miles. In this way, commander was in constant in communication with other tank commanders. Command Tiger E 267 had Fu.5 & Fu 8 (10 Watt transmitter ‘C’& UKW receiver ‘E’) fitted in turret. (Fug.8 a 30 Watt transmitter and MW receiver ‘C’) located in hull. Command Tiger E 268 had Fu.5 & Fu.7 (10 Watt transmitter ‘C’ & Fu.7 20 Watt transmitter ‘D’ and UKW receiver ‘D1’ Fug or Fu is German abbreviation of Funk Gerät which means Radio Equipment. “UKW”, MW” and “LW” mean Ultra Kurtz Welle, Mittel Welle und Lange Welle. Translated into English they mean: Ultra short wave, Medium wave & Long wave. Letters “E” stand for Empfänger (Receiver) &“S” for Sender (Transmitter). Fug 5 10 Watt. S ‘c’ operated on 27.2-33.3 MHz Matching receivers to all three transmitters were UKW.E early model, and UKW.E ‘a’ later model Aerials for the above transmitters; Star” aerial ‘D’ for the 30 Watt (Fu8). Location: Right rear end of tank. Seating Positions Radio Operator 2, whose normal position was in hull, had two radio systems fitted on rubber mountings. Added to his standard Fu5 transmitter and UKW receiver 'E', a second set was fitted - either Fu7 or Fu8 and located to the left of standard equipment. This change made Tiger E either Sd Kfz 267 or Sd Kfz 268. The 267 had Fu 5 and Fu 8 and the 268 had Fu5 and Fu 7 radios. The second Fu5 and UKW E receiver, was attached to the turret's roof right side, where loader sat. MG34's space was replaced by another Fu.5 which was suspended on straps and rubber insulating mountings. Loader had now a secondary role as a radio operator 1. |
| Photographs are by courtesy of www.laud.no/la6nca/radio/german/ |
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| Fu 5 10 Watt transmitter | UKW e Receiver | Fu7 20W Transmitter | Fu8 30 Watt transmitter |
For official use only! Radio and Intercom in the Tiger Tank and Command Tanks from 15.4.1943 Picture. 5 A. General description |
1. The Tiger Tank (Pz Kpfw Tiger as additional vehicle) was produced in 2 versions; the Sd Kfz 267 and Sd Kfz 268. These two models differed only in radio equipment systems.
Special fittings and storage of equipment and intercom are alike, in both cases. B. Description of Radio Installation. 1. Radio communication system 2. Two radio operators are required to operate different radio-systems. a) Radio operator #1 attends to radio set Fu 8 (30 W transmitter + M wave receiver e) in Sd Kfz 267 or radio-equipment Fu (WG D + Ukw E D 1 in SD Kfz 268. They are located at the front and to the right of the driver. b) Radio operator #2, attends radio-equipment Fu 5 (10Wsc + Ukw Ee). This radio equipment is fitted in the turret, in front of the loader. Thus at the same time, the radio operator #2 becomes also a loader. Page 6 Antenna for the radio set of Fu 8 (30 WG A + Mw E c) Antenna for radio set Fu 8 is Star type D. It is mounted on an antenna foot to the antenna duct 16. The Star antenna D comprises of a 6 leaf star-shaped steel springs, at the upper end of whip rod. The antenna duct 16 is mounted in the right rear corner of the fighting compartment. It consists of an armoured case, mobile antenna foot , the antenna insulator A, and the Antenna Coil 80/30 W. Apart from the antenna input lead 16, a mounting plate is used on the side panel, which allows while stationary, to increase the radio range by stacking mast tubes and then attaching to them the star antenna, thus increasing range. Attached at the rear of the vehicle is a storage tube for the star antenna D, when not in use. With star antenna D, radio 30 WG a, is connected to the antenna input. This antenna inlet consists of an insolating tube (mostly made from laminated paper), with a steel rod in the centre. The aerial connector has bakelite sockets fitted to both ends. The antenna coil 80/30 W, has 3 switching position ranges 30 W S.a 3 and is located at the base of the antenna input 16. The changeover of this coil is made by the radio operator 1 via remote mechanical control. The lever for the changeover of the coil is the in a recess on radio operator 1, right side. Antenna for the radio set Fu 9 20WS d + Ukw E d1). Antenna 1.4 m rod is an aerial for radio set Fu 7a. It is a removable antenna mounted on a base in the rear corner of the fighting compartment. When not in use, the 1.4 m rod antenna is stowed in the tubular storage for the star antenna D. The radio equipment Fu 7 is connected by the firmly placed antenna inlet l with the antenna. The antenna inlet l consists of shielded high frequency cable of 6 m length and is on both sides of the Junction box Pz. NR.2 b and Pz. NR.2. For protection to mechanical parts, it is stowed in a tubular housing. Page 7 Antenna for the radio set for Fu 5 (10WSc+ Ukw E e) 5. The 2m mast antenna, is intended for the radio-equipment Fu 5 and is mounted on the antenna base situated on the turret’s roof, and can be detached. When not in use, the 2m rod antenna is stowed in the protective tubing on the right side at the rear. The antenna inlet n consists of high frequency shielded cables 1,5 m long and is connected at both sides of the junction boxes Pz Nr.10 C and Pz. Nr.2 b. The box Pz.NR. 10 C, contains a coil for adjustment of antenna to the radio, as well as a shielding condenser from high voltage surge. The antenna inlet is stowed in protective cylindrical canisters.. 6. For the installation of the Radio equipment (transmitters and receivers), the suspended supporting brackets are provided. They are fitted with rubber mountings that serve as flexible suspension for radio equipment. For lateral fastening of radios, the supporting brackets have snap fasteners. The grounding of frames is made by a cable that spans the mounting frames. For the 30 WG A and/or. The 20 WG D is the supporting device P 20 US. It is attached to the left of the radio operator 1, over the transmission cover. When using radio equipment Fu 8 with the Mw E C (receiver), an auxiliary framework for medium wave receivers is installed in the supporting device P 20 UE. This auxiliary framework consists of a lower and upper framework. It is stored under the radio operator’s seat. For the 10 WG c and the Ukw E e, the supporting device P 10 USE is used. It is located in the turret in front of the loader’s seat and the loader’s access hatch. 7 Power supply The power supply for radio equipment is supplied by the main batteries via power converters and transformers. The accumulators are connected through the main switch NPA line 2X 10 mm² to the junction box Z 23. The junction box contains safety devices for the different electric circuits and is fitted on tie bar, behind the radio operator. When stationary, the installed GG 400 protects the main drive accumulators. This machine is fitted in the rear right corner. The exhaust from the unit is provided by a pipe connected to the hull's roof. Above the set, is a switchbox connected by NPA cable 2X10 mm², to the accumulators' main switch. The switchbox contains a safety device that allows turning off the GG 400 from the electrical system. The transformers are firmly mounted to base plates. The radio operator 1has the transmission transformer U 30 and/or U 20, the base plate U 20 and for the receiver’s transformer EUa the base plate EUa. The base plate U 20 is in the recess to the right of radio operator1. 8. Rotary Converter and turret hook up 12 V power supply for the turret intercom, comes through a slipring transducer 8 tlg., Ausf.E, from the hull main accumulators. The NPN cable 2X10mm² (Box Z23) and two cables from 6X0.5 mm² (intercom boxes), are connected to the slip-ring transducer’s stator. Page 9 Equipment Both radio operators have suitable mounting brackets for radio accessories. The storage is as follows: 1 storage for writing pad, for the radio operator #1 in the niche right, and under the turret roof for radio operator #2. 1 container for KA 30a and 1 container for KA 20a only with radio operator #1 in the right recess. Accessory Box for radio equipment It contains rods and other spare parts. In addition, there is a stowage tube located above the driver’s head for 3antenna tubes. Page 10 II Intercom Arrangement 10. Intercom system for Pz. Kpfw Tiger and command Tiger has been designated as “Intercom“. It makes „on-board speaking” possible between commander, Intelligence gathering officer (acting as gunner), Radio operator #1, Radio operator #2 and driver. The commander and/or the intelligence-gathering officer can perform this function, by operating Box 1 and/or, Switch box 2 offering the radio, to radio operator 1 or radio operator 2, automatically operating the radio. For further communication, a signal light is fitted into the intercom boxes. To the Intercom “B” belong: 1 Cable connection, 5-core cable, with insert. Box 1 and box 2 are the connection boxes for the commander and intelligence collection officer (gunner). They are fitted with connections for receivers and microphone, push-button with red signal lamp and a change over switch with three switching positions: „Radio operator #1 “- „Intercom“- „radio operator #2 “.They are located in proximity to the commander and/or communication officer in the turret. Box 3 and box 4 are junction boxes for the radio operator 1 and radio operator 2. They have change over switch with either switching positions, except receiver microphone connection with a push-button and red signal lamp also another switch „radio “- „intercom “. They are directly interconnected with radio-equipment. The box 5 is commander’s signal box. It is positioned in commander’s line of sight. Apart of the push-button, another red and a green signal lamp is inserted. The box 6 is a junction box for receivers and driver’s microphone. In addition, it contains a pushbutton for signalling devices. The junction box is fastened above to the right and to the back of driver. Box7, Box 8, Box 9 and box 10 are junction boxes for the connection of receiver sockets and the microphone sockets from the transmitters to the interphone. The connection is made by the loose cable connections. The box 11 contains intercom amplifier. It is a single valve amplifier with valve 12 P 2000. The box contains spare parts and clamp fasteners. For regulation of volume, there is volume control, and simultaneous circuit breakers. The box 11 is to the right of radio operator 1, on a supporting device P 20 US. lll. Interference Suppression 11. Engine’s ignition system as well as automatic controllers and generator brushes cause interfere and would make radio reception impossible; therefore, all power lines to equipment as well as all engine leads are shielded. The outgoing lines from the generator are fitted with RF chokes and condensers, as are the lines between generator and equipment. Automatic controllers and interference suppressors are likewise in screened cables. Screened cable is called: („Full interference M 9Gruppe 1“). M means the special case for magneto ignition. C. Initial Operation and Servicing 1. Initial Operation 12 Location of Radio Fu5 (in the turret for radio operator #2). The five-core rubber cable is connected to the transformers, and plugged in to10 WG e and Ukw E e at the supporting device P10 USE and then fastened laterally to the supporting brace. Connections e to radios, transformers and the antenna inlet are made with the connecting cables. The connecting cables are fastened with attached straps. 13. Location of Radio Fu7 (Installed to Command Tank Sd Kfz 268). 20 WSd and Ukw Ed1 are located in two supporting frames and are secured in front by lateral fastening straps. The transformers U20a and EUa on two base plates, at the forward radios position (U20a in the right recess, and EUa under radio operator’s seat) are fastened down to the base-plates with wing nuts. Connections between radios, transformers and the antenna inlet ι, are made with connecting cables. These cables are bound with the fastening belt. 14 Details of Radio Fu 8 (In Command Tank SD Kfz 267) 30 WS. a Transmitter is sandwiched into the supporting device P20 UE in forward radio operator’s place, between the supporting unit P20 US, Mw Ec below auxiliary lower part framework and above medium wave receiver part) and then snapped laterally with fasteners on the supporting device. Transformers U30b and EUa are fastened securely to the base-plates, with butterfly nuts, at the forward radio operator’s place (U30b in the right recess, EUa under the radio operator seat). The loose connecting cables are fastened with attached straps. 15. Machine Type GG 400 (Gasoline Generator 400) GG 400 equipment is tightly fitted and stored in the hull's right rear corner. Connection is made with rubber cables to the electrical system from the switchbox (pay attention to correct polarity). The exhaust pipe from the set is firmly attached to the vehicle (tightening nuts firmly, provides full fumes exhaust.) When using the GG 400, unscrew and removed the exhaust external cover cap for the outlet exhaust housing, 16. Field manuals. D 949/2 10 Watts transmitters e 17. Operating Fu 8 set (30 WS au 17. Mw Ee) To operate 30WS A, the transmitter’s range must be set by antenna coil 80/30 setting, which is done by a switch. The change over switch for the coil is in the recess to the right of the radio operator #1. When transmitter’s range is set to position II, the antenna coil change over switch must be also switched to position II. Operating Radio While Stationary. Transmission range can be increased either rods screwed to the star antenna D (do not drive with this antenna screwed in, because the extension mast will break off when hitting an obstacle!) or the star antenna D connected to 3 stacked aerial pipes. The assembled mast rods are secured on the mounting plate near the antenna adapter 16 and the star antenna D under the adapter of antenna head C and the connecting mast pieces. Connection of the antenna with antenna input to the transmitter is made with 5 m loose cable between antenna head C and the antenna base lead through 16 in the radio accessory case. 18. Operating on Batteries while stationary Using radio equipment while stationary would drain the batteries due to heavy current consumption. To assists the batteries, a buffer GG 400 (gasoline generator) is installed. Connection of the exhaust outlet is to be bolted outside of the vehicle (apart from the antenna duct 16). Furthermore the switch on the switchbox must be set at proximity of „One“. 19. Connecting Headphones and microphone. All connections between receiver sockets and junction boxes 7,8, 9 and the intercom10 B, are made with the free cable. Switch microphone on, for an „internal communication“. Simultaneous on-board communication is not possible, so the free cable connection between radio switches and boxes 7, 8, 9 and intercom’s 10, are plugged in reverse, and can hear intercom and hum of both receivers. Yellow dots on radios sockets for headphones and/or microphones, must match with yellow dot on the plug of the free cable connections and yellow dot on the sockets of boxes 7,8, 9 and 10 for the intercom. Operation Intercom’s volume is regulated by installed volume control in box 11. 20. Commander and intelligence collection officer switch on intercom switchbox 1 and 2 to “Intercom“position. Radio operator #1 and radio operator #2 set switches to “Radio“, on boxes 3 and 4. Now Radio operator #1 and radio operator #2 are connected only to the radio and can communicate. Commander, communication officer and driver are able to „on-board communication “. 21. The commander and/or the intelligence collection officer wants to monitor radio activity of radio operators #1 or radio operator #2 or transmission. He switches Intercom switch box into position „radio operator 1 “and/or. „Radio operator 2 “.He can now hears radio-activity of radio operator 1 and/or. Radio operator 2 and can transmit. 22. The commander wants to talk to radio operator 1 and/or Radio operators 2. He communicates by signal lamp fitted into the intercom switchboxes and switches into position ”Intercom“. In response to light signal, radio operator 1 and/or radio operator 2, sets the intercom switchbox in position “Intercom “. The radio operator continues to hear the receiver and at the same time can talk with the commander and/or. Intelligence collection officer. 23. Radio operator 1 or radio operator 2 wants to talk to the commander and/or communication officer .He sends light signal and sets the intercom switchbox to position “Intercom “.When light is on the commander and/or communication officer sets the intercom switchbox to position “ Intercom“ and can now speak with the radio operator. 24. The driver wants to talk to the commander. He presses the pushbutton on intercom junction box. The commander’s green signal lamp lights up on box 5. The commander sets intercom switchbox into position “Intercom” and can now talk to the driver. 25. The commander and/or the communication officer wants to talk to driver. He sets intercom switchbox into position “Intercom “and can now talk to the driver. 26. The light signal communication between the individual crew is set as follows: Commander..........................Radio Operator 1 : 1 x long. D. Servicing and care Antennas When radio equipment is not used for a period of time, oxidized contact areas at the foot of the antenna must to be thoroughly cleaned with water, before using radio equipment. Dirt must be removed with water, from the antenna’s insulator and the cover of antenna lead connector 16 Radios, Transformer and GG 400 set 28. The maintenance and care of radios is referred to in specified field manuals (C/1/2). Furthermore, attention must be paid to the GG 400 set, that when not in use, the external exhaust pipe on hull’s roof is covered, and protected from rain etc. Intercom 29. The headphones and microphones belonging to the intercom are to be packed with when not used into the existing rack for receivers. Connecting Cable 30. After prolonged period of time when equipment is not used, attention must be paid the plugs of the connections cable, by giving them a good polish. Store plugs securely in the upwards position. E. Testing and Repairs 33. Faults arise with radios and intercom. Depending on which equipment is faulty, 1 Radio Equipment 34. The examination and radio repairs, transformer and the GG 400 set, follow guidelines as set in field manuals (see number 16) II. Antennas 35. Loss of reception and/or transmission. Loss of transmission and reception indicates a faulty antenna. Antenna input must be examined as follows: Antenna for Fu 5 (10WS e + Ukw E e) a) Check whether the transmitter and/or receiver is in order otherwise exchange it. 36 Antenna for Fu 7 (20WS d + Ukw E d 1) a) Examine, whether the transmitter and/or receiver are order, otherwise exchange faulty equipment. b) Check for good connection of the 2m mast antenna at the antenna base and the antenna plug. Remove any rust or oxide on plug and connectors. 37. Antenna for Fu 8 (WS a und Mw E c) a) Examine, whether the transmitter and/or receiver is in order and if not, exchange the unit. III. Power supply 38. Radios do not work after switching on a) Examine safety devices in junction box Z 23. Location of fuses is on the diagram
inside the junction box cover. If a fuse has blown, replace it. GG 400 Set does not charge 39. a) Check fuses in the switchbox. If the fuse has blown, replaced it. IV. Intercom 40. In case of interference and defects in the intercom, proceed as follows ; V. Noise suppression 41. Determine whether the radio interference is caused by nearby vehicles, close by power lines and such like. If that is not the case, then look for the problem as follows ; 42. Interference from the ignition system is audible with engine idling (crackling
noise), and raises with engine speed and stops, when the ignition key is turned off. Interference from the generator and its automatic regulators 43. Crackling noise from the generator and its automatic controller is standard situation and occurrence, that increases when low engine revolutions are present and the red charging lamp goes out when revolutions are increased. In this situation, the generator switches to the electrical system and interference increases. These interferences are caused by the automatic regulator, only at low engine speed, when the red charging lamp lights up. Examine the following parts and if necessary repair or replace: Generator’s commentator, Generator’s brushes Lubricate cable connections and in particular the female connectors. The suppressors (chokes and condensers) are not to be examined with present means, they could be shorted out and cause severe interference. Interference caused by bad contacts 44. Electrical interference during travel may be caused by bad contacts in the entire
electrical system. The cause can be found and isolated only by systematic Interference from the drive assembly 45. In addition, while on the move, interferences increase through friction pressures
on rubber parts of the drive assembly, under certain terrain conditions. F. Specification data Generally, performance range can be achieved in average terrain conditions; |