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Radio Shack "Collectibles"? — Parallax Forums

Radio Shack "Collectibles"?

ercoerco Posts: 20,256
edited 2013-12-26 16:06 in General Discussion
I just saw this lot of packaged "vintage" Archer components from Radio Shack: http://www.ebay.com/itm/17-Vintage-ARCHER-New-Electronic-Parts-Decoder-Receiver-Amp-Rectifier-/131075004715?pt=Vintage_Electronics_R2&hash=item1e84add92b

It occurs to me that someone will save these unopened components forever, with hopes that they may appreciate in value, somewhat like unbuilt Heathkits.

Don't laugh, it could happen!

Comments

  • SapphireSapphire Posts: 496
    edited 2013-12-25 20:40
    You know what erco, I saved all the blue, yellow, orange, green, etc. package backs from the '80s and '90s until they went to bags. Often times there was quite useful info on the back, and I wrote the component marking so later if I used the part, I could find the data. A lot of times RS components didn't come with standard markings. I must have 100+ of these package backs, all tied up on a long string. Most of the components got used in projects though.
  • ercoerco Posts: 20,256
    edited 2013-12-25 21:10
    Heck, even I want these! Old parts for an old guy...

    http://www.ebay.com/itm/4-Vintage-NOS-Archer-USA-Made-10-Watt-50-Ohm-Ceramic-10-Resistors-HAM-Radio-/121225826157?pt=Vintage_Electronics_R2&hash=item1c399f4f6d
  • xanaduxanadu Posts: 3,347
    edited 2013-12-25 21:13
    Brings back memories. I used to hate when they would put the price tag over the back and cover up something important. Or the back ripped opening the front. Couldn't just download the PDF...
  • localrogerlocalroger Posts: 3,451
    edited 2013-12-25 21:39
    If they brought back the PBOX kits I think they'd do a land-office business.
  • wmosscropwmosscrop Posts: 409
    edited 2013-12-26 10:40
    localroger wrote: »
    If they brought back the PBOX kits I think they'd do a land-office business.

    I agree. I put several of those kits together when I was a kid. Sometimes they actually worked :)

    I still have one that works, the "neon goofy light" (wired as sequential). I had to replace the neon bulbs a few years ago (the wires are very fragile and broke from rough handling) but everything else is original. That includes my very bad soldering...

    Here's a link to a page with info on the kits...
    http://my.core.com/~sparktron/pbox.html

    Walter
  • ctwardellctwardell Posts: 1,716
    edited 2013-12-26 10:51
    wmosscrop wrote: »
    I agree. I put several of those kits together when I was a kid. Sometimes they actually worked :)

    I still have one that works, the "neon goofy light" (wired as sequential). I had to replace the neon bulbs a few years ago (the wires are very fragile and broke from rough handling) but everything else is original. That includes my very bad soldering...

    Here's a link to a page with info on the kits...
    http://my.core.com/~sparktron/pbox.html

    Walter

    I loved that kit! I built mine with the random option.

    I also built the alarm/siren and FM radio.

    C.W.
  • Chris SavageChris Savage Parallax Engineering Posts: 14,406
    edited 2013-12-26 11:20
    @erco - sadly I remember all those products and have purchased them in my time.

    @Sappphire - I have the backs to all the unique items I purchased back then saved in an old Betty Crocker frosting cup as a reference. Some relays, components, etc.
  • blittledblittled Posts: 681
    edited 2013-12-26 12:49
    Erco, speaking of resistors, I would love to find some old resistors made by Erie Resistor. I grew up in Erie PA, have Eriez Indian ancestry so I'm always interested in historical stuff from there. Sadly they closed their doors a year after I was born.
  • ercoerco Posts: 20,256
    edited 2013-12-26 12:52
    Go get 'em! http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw=erie+resistor

    Several in mint packages from one UK seller.
  • 4x5n4x5n Posts: 745
    edited 2013-12-26 15:23
    localroger wrote: »
    If they brought back the PBOX kits I think they'd do a land-office business.

    When I was in grammer/high school I got a number of PBOX kits and absolutely loved them!!
  • GordonMcCombGordonMcComb Posts: 3,366
    edited 2013-12-26 16:06
    Auction ended, no bids. Can't imagine why...
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