CF Crypto in the 80s... Some questions

Scott Bentley · #1 19-04-10, 02:17

I'll make this quick and easy.

What Crypto system would have been in main stream use (Reg Force) with the VRC-12 family of radios in the Army in the mid/late 80s? For arguements sake, say 1987.

KY-38 NESTOR or the KY-57?

Thanks

Scotty

Scott Bentley · #2 19-04-10, 04:03

May have answered my own question with a Google search:

In 1988, Valcom was awarded a contract to manufacture and test the KY-57 installation kits and cable assemblies to provide spares for the Vinson system. The kits consisted of cable assemblies, adapters, junction boxes, speakers, amplifiers and mounting brackets.

To effectively test the production quantities, it was necessary for Valcom to design and build a special computerized test jig. This test jig is capable of automatically testing a wide variety of cables and interconnecting boxes to a high degree of accuracy, after which, the results are printed. The tester is still in use in the repair and overhaul department for testing repaired items.

These kits were manufactured for the Department of National Defence (DND) through Supply and Services Canada.

Looks like it was most likely the NESTOR

Eric B · #3 12-05-10, 15:53

Hello Scotty

I contaced Valcom a while ago pertaining to old manuals and left over equipment, and they responded that once the DND contract was complete, that they threw out everything.

The person did check to see if anything was still around and talked to a few employees, but those involved in the program have since retired or moved on.

I have some Valcom J Boxes and a few US ones from Petawawa, dated before the Valcom contract. I even have a DND test one, which will eventually go to the Communications Museum if they want it.

Eric