SCR-536 Radio

SCR-536 radio

The SCR-536 was a two-way, portable radio used extensively by United States armed forces during World War II. It was known by the name "Handie Talkie." Production on the SCR-536 radio began in July of 1941, and approximately 130,000 of them were built by Galvin Manufacturing Co./Motorola of Chicago, Illinois.

The SCR-536 was waterproof and could be submerged for a period of time without affecting its performance. The radio was turned on by pulling out its antenna, and turned off by collapsing the antenna.

For his work on the SCR-536, Don Mitchell, chief engineer at Galvin, was awarded the War Worker's Award from the Chicago Tribune on September 21, 1944. Galvin was awarded five Army-Navy "E" Awards during World War II, in part to its SCR-536 and SCR-300 radio designs.

Notes

Captain Miller is seen using a SCR-536 once his company makes it to the top of the bluff at Omaha Beach.

Conflicting sources indicate that SCR stands for either "Signal Corps Radio" or "set, complete, radio."

Specifications

Frequency Range: 3.5–6 MHz
Modulation: AM
Weight: 5+ lbs
Range: 1–3 miles