NBC Chimes

Manufacturer: NBC

Model Number:

Serial #:

Equipment Description: NBC Chimes

Label Write-up:
Network radio programs needed a way to signal the local radio stations when to do station identifications and air local commercials. NBC came up with these chimes that the announcer struck on the hour and half hour. (Now done by computer built into the signal). Originally it was four notes: G-C-F-E. Then it was shortened to three notes: G-E-C to stand for the General Electric Company which was part owner of NBC. They were also used on NBC television. WNBT-TV announced the beginning of NBC television broadcasting with the chimes in 1941. The tones were discontinued in 1971. In 1994 Bill Harris did some research into the origins of the chimes. There were people from four radio stations that claimed they were using chimes before NBC in 1926 and that NBC used their idea for chimes to signal the local stations.

Dates Produced: 1920's

Original Price:

The museum's inventory number: MRT-1921

Located at Museum in: Hallway

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