The Original Simpson 260®

Analog - VOM

Volt-Ohm-Milliammeter

The original Simpson 260 was introduced in the 1930's, and was still advertised in 1946.

The "Series" designation would not start until the 260 Series 2A. The probe jacks accept the pin type leads,

Part Number 0-008375. This Model 260 and the Model 215 are very close in appearance and function.

See the Model 215 page for the two differences.

No Taut Band Suspension, molded case or mirrored dial, those were still a few years away.

The operating instructions are two pages, typewritten and dated July 20, 1939.

Controls include: Ohms zero adjustment, AC - DC - Output, a 12 position Function / Range selector switch,

and four recessed probe jacks. The labeling is silk screened on the front, the engraved lettering would

come with the next version. Note that they used "MIC" for Micro on the 100μA range.

Back view with cover on and off. A lot of hand wiring here, Printed Circuit Boards were not around.

Just a plain bakelite back cover, includes a leather handle. The screws are on the front for assembly.

There are  no fuses used in this unit. There are no calibration trim pots.

More inside views linked below.

The original batteries used in this model are two 3 Volt batteries, (Burgess 422 or Eveready 750)

and one ("C" Size) 1½ Volt battery. However, most 3 Volt batteries were replaced using two "AA"

size batteries soldered in series on each side, as shown above. All batteries are soldered into place.

If you get an original Model 260 without batteries to guide you, here is the proper wiring procedure:

Top "C" cell: Yellow wire to positive (+)  Black wire to negative (-)

Left Side: Yellow wire to positive (+)  Red wire to negative (-)

Right Side: Red wire to positive (+)  Black wire to negative (-)

Case Size: 6¾ " x  5¼ " x  3 "  -  Weight: 3 Pounds - 1946 Price $38.95

With the minimum wage in 1946 at 40¢ per hour, that was some serious money.

Simpson 260 Specifications

5 Ranges 0, +12, +26, +40, +52dB

Ranges 100μA, 10mA, l00mA, 500mA

Accuracy Unknown

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