Kodascope Model C variable speed function

[Michael Kaplan]

Hi all,

This is my first post and I’m glad to be part of the forum. I’m curious about something. I have Kodascope Model C 16mm projector in excellent cosmetic and operational condition. Thing is, it’s missing the variable speed rheostat but it appears as though there never was one at all. Every other photo of a Model C that I have seen has the variable speed knob (like the later Model D) I’m wondering if this was a somewhat earlier or more rare configuration. Can anyone shed any light on this?

Appreciate it!

Michael

[Janice Glesser]

Hi Michael and welcome to the Forum. Is it possible to post a picture of the projector you have so we can compare it against other pics of the model c. I'm not familiar with that projector but a picture can tell a lot. Perhaps you can identify the variable speed knob you mention.

[Michael Kaplan]

Thanks so much. Here’s a shot of the motor from my Kodascope “Model C”

[Michael Kaplan]

Here a shot from another Model “C” as you can see the speed control sits atop the motor.

[Janice Glesser]

Hi Michael... I found this description published by Kodak of the Model C. The pricing shows the rheostat listed separately as an optional add-on.

[Michael Kaplan]

Janice,
thanks for the reply. I’ve seen this literature and noted the add-on resistor. I wonder if it refers to this accessory pictured? It seems to be relevant to voltage changes to speed control. What do you think?
-Michael

[Ken Finch]

Hi Michael. From the picture you have displayed, this is the main resistance for the projector. It was an alternative to a transformer, used to reduce the supply voltage to that of the projector which was in those days 110volts. This enabled the projectors to be used in different areas and countries. There were so many different electricity companies in those days, some supplying. AC and others DC. Hence a resistance rather than a transformer. What you need is a wire wound variable resistance to connect in the motor circuit as in the original to vary the projector speed. Comparing the pictures of the two projectors, it looks as if the one you have is a replacement of the original. It may be that the speed is altered by changing the drive belts to different size pulleys on the projector drive shaft. Again there does seem to be a difference between the two pictures of the model C.