The R-158 (Р-158) is a portable VHF radio transceiver that entered service with the Soviet military in 1979. It was specifically designed for use at the platoon level to ensure reliable communication within military units.
Technical Specifications
Rare radio station military R-158 USSR Manual book instruction
General Characteristics
- Type: Portable VHF Radio Transceiver
- Service History: Entered service in 1979
- Primary Users: Soviet military, used at the platoon level
- Country of Origin: Soviet Union
Operating Modes
- Frequency Modulation: Yes
- Operating Modes: Radiotelephone and tone calling
- Frequency Range: 30 – 79.975 MHz
- Tuning System: PLL frequency synthesis with 25 kHz steps, selected via rotary switches
- Total Channels: 2000 available channels
Sensitivity and Selectivity
- Sensitivity: 1 μV (at a signal-to-noise ratio of 20 dB)
- Superheterodyne System: Two frequency transformations
- Intermediate Frequencies:
- 1st IF: 11.5 MHz
- 2nd IF: 1.5 MHz
Power and Performance
- RF Output Power: 1 Watt
- Frequency Deviation: 5 kHz
- Spurious Emission Suppression: 45 dB
- Communication Range:
- With AШ-1.5 (Kulikov’s pin antenna): Up to 4 km
- With λ-shaped antenna: Up to 10 km
Power Supply and Consumption
- Battery Type: Nickel-cadmium battery type 10NKGC-1D (10НКГЦ-1Д) at 12 volts
- Alternate Power Source: 12-volt vehicle supply
- Current Consumption:
- Receiving Mode: 60 mA
- Transmission Mode: 580 mA
Environmental and Physical Specifications
- Operating Temperature Range: -40 to +50 °C
- Dimensions: 80 х 165 х 263 mm
- Weight: 3.6 kg
- Circuitry: Transistorized
Deployment and Use
The R-158 was an essential communication tool within the Soviet military, particularly at the platoon level. Its robust design and reliable performance in harsh conditions made it a valuable asset for maintaining communications in various military operations.
Design and Development
The R-158’s design focused on durability and ease of use. The use of PLL frequency synthesis allowed for precise tuning, and the superheterodyne system with two frequency transformations ensured high sensitivity and selectivity. The radio’s ability to operate over a wide temperature range made it suitable for use in diverse environments.
Accessories
The radio could be equipped with different antennas to extend its communication range. The AШ-1.5 pin antenna provided a range of up to 4 km, while the λ-shaped antenna extended the range to up to 10 km.
References
- “R-158 – VHF Radiostation – Podlaskie Muzeum Techniki”. www.excitapolonia.pl. Retrieved 24 July 2018.
- “Радиостанция ‘Р-158′”. www.cqham.ru. Retrieved 24 July 2018.