Vintage Western Electric 98A Telephone Phone Lightning Arrester 5"

Description

Vintage 20th century Western Electric telephone lightning arrester. Base marked Western Electric - 98A - Made in USA . Red tube marked Western Electric - 7 Amp - IIC BB 50. Reverse marked MPW.

"A lightning arrester (alternative spelling lightning arrestor) (also called lightning isolator) is a device, essentially an air gap between an electric wire and ground, used on electric power transmission and telecommunication systems to protect the insulation and conductors of the system from the damaging effects of lightning. The typical lightning arrester has a high-voltage terminal and a ground terminal. When a lightning surge (or switching surge, which is very similar) travels along the power line to the arrester, the current from the surge is diverted through the arrester, in most cases to earth. In telegraphy and telephony, a lightning arrester is placed where wires enter a structure, preventing damage to electronic instruments within and ensuring the safety of individuals near them." (Source: Wikipedia)

Condition

Good Overall - Gentle wear

Dimensions

3.75" x 4.75" x 2.5" (Width x Depth x Height)