General Books

General Books
Online Catalogue | General Books

The Paraset Radio
The story of a WWII Spy-Radio and How to Build a Working Replica

By Hiroki Kato, AH6CY

This book describes the gripping story behind the Paraset - a unique spy-radio, dropped behind enemy lines in the dark days of WWII. This radio being both light weight and state of the art for the time was concealed in a suitcase, making ideal for use by the spies of SOE. This book describes how the Paraset was used, the technical specification and even how you might build your own replica.

Written by acknowledged Paraset enthusiast Hiroki Kato, AH6CY this book was inspired by the epic stories connected to this radio and is meticulously researched. These radios were first made in workshops in England at Whaddon Hall and then at Little Horwood, near Bletchley Park. Sadly, most were destroyed at the end of the war and today only a few original Parasets remain in museums and the hands of private collectors. However, inspired by the Paraset stories, radio amateurs across the world have been building working reproductions.

The Paraset Radio provides a history of this remarkable Morse code only radio that was low power (4-5W), had no meters or even an on/off switch. Hiroki relates how the SOE Agents used the radio in occupied Europe and how the radio was developed during the war. There are schematics of the design of the radio along with advice on how to build your own working example that can be used on amateur radio bands. There is also information on building a Paraset from one of the kits available. Hiroki even shares details of some of use he has put his own Paraset radio to on the amateur radio bands.

The Paraset Radio is a rare insight into a radio that provided vital spy communications in WWII. It may also provide the inspiration for you to build your own working Paraset radio, so that you can get a taste of wartime operating, but without the danger of a fatal ‘knock on the door’.

Size 174x240mm, 88 pages, ISBN: 9781 9101 9395 2

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Roger So Far....
The first 100 years of the Royal Corps of Signals

** SPECIAL MEMBERS ONLY PRICING - 40% OFF USUAL RRP **

Since its formation in 1920, the Royal Corps of Signals has provided the British Army’s central nervous system. Roger So Far... is a celebration of the Corps’ achievements and the ability of its soldiers to use innovation and improvisation to deliver results beyond all reasonable expectations. This large format hardback book is lavishly illustrated in colour and provides an insight like no other into the activities of Corps.

Communications are a vital part of the Army’s fighting power and the Corps has been crucial in supporting the vast majority of military land-based operations following the First World War. Only with clear and trusted communications can commanders support, control, and lead their units and soldiers. The evolution of electrical communications in the last 150 years has been one of the most important developments humanity has ever witnessed. Its importance is growing because conducting successful operations is becoming increasingly reliant upon being able to operate in a congested and contested electronic battlespace.

Roger So Far... acts as an historical record, covering the 100 years of operations that the Corps has been involved in, including such diverse conflicts as WW2, Suez and Afghanistan. There are many reminiscences covering aspects of life within the Corps during its first 100 years. It seeks to stir memories and to inform those who are serving, or have served in the Corps, as well as to inform those who have not served.

Size 218x304mm, 168 pages, Hardback,
ISBN: 9780 7509 9050 9

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SIGINT
The Secret History of Signals Intelligence in the World Wars

By Peter Matthews

!!!! BACK IN STOCK AS A PAPERBACK !!!!

This great and extremely popular book is now available as a paperback. Signals Intelligence, or SIGINT, is the interception and evaluation of coded enemy messages. Written by acknowledged expert Peter Mathews this book reveals the secret history of global signals intelligence during the world wars through original interviews with German interceptors, British code breakers, and US and Russian cryptographers.

From ENIGMA to ULTRA, PURPLE to LORENZ, Room 40 to Bletchley, SIGINT has been instrumental in both victory and defeat during both the First and Second World War. During the First World War, a vast network of signals rapidly expanded across the globe, spawning a new breed of spies and intelligence operatives to, code, de-code and analyse thousands of messages. As a result, signallers and cryptographers in the Admiralty's famous Room 40 paved the way for the code breakers of Bletchley Park in the Second World War. In the ensuing war years the world battled against a web of signals intelligence that gave birth to Enigma and Ultra, and saw agents from Britain, France, Germany, Russia, America and Japan race to outwit each other through infinitely complex codes. SIGINT even provides a fascinating account of what Allied investigators learned post war about the Nazi equivalent of Bletchley Park.

Including material from declassified NSA documents, SIGINT provides an insight into the work of this shadowy organisation and its achievements. If you are interested in Enigma, Bletchley or the work of Room 40 this book is recommended reading

**** 27% off the usual rrp for RSGB Members****

Size: 129x231mm, 400 pages ISBN: 9780 7509 8771 4

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Radio War
The Secret Espionage War of the Radio Security Service 1938-1946

By David Abrutat

**** SPECIAL RSGB MEMBERS ONLY PRICING - 24% OFF USUAL RETAIL PRICE ****

If you have every wondered what Radio Amateurs did during WW2, then this new hardback book will be a revelation. Many books have described the work of Bletchley Park and even the work of GCHQ and SIGNIT but Radio War extends this into the work carried out by that voluntary interceptors (VI) many of whom were radio amateurs and RSGB members. It does not stop there either as it describes the secret operations, the stations used and so much more.

During the Second World War German intelligence had deployed wireless teams throughout occupied Europe. Agents had even been deployed to mainland Britain to spy on British military activity. Monitoring and reporting of their wireless transmissions fell to a small, secretive and largely unknown unit manned almost exclusively by volunteers. The VIs would spend hours every day at home monitoring the short wavelengths for often faint and difficult to copy signals transmitted by these German secret intelligence services. This unit was to become known as the Radio Security Service (RSS) and was at the core of the signals intelligence production effort at Bletchley and the insights into German military tactical and strategic planning.

Without interceptors like the RSS, Bletchley would not have existed. Their story has never truly been written before but Radio War focuses on their secret world of wireless espionage. There is included an honour roll of RSS operatives which details their area of operation, callsigns, locations. Not surprising this list is packed with well-known radio amateurs of the day including at least one RSGB president. Patrick Reilly, the Assistant to Head of MI6 Stewart Menzies, was to say of the RSS `a team of brilliance unparalleled anywhere in the intelligence machine.'

This book is a truly exceptional insight into the activity of the RSS, radio amateurs in WW2 and much more. It is thoroughly recommended reading

Size: 168x236mm, 224 pages. Hardback
ISBN: 9781 7815 5759 4

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Codebreakers of Bletchley Park
The Secret Intelligence Station that Helped Defeat the Nazis

By Dermot Turing

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At Bletchley Park, some of Britain’s most talented mathematicians, linguists, and intellectuals were assembled to break Nazi codes. Kept secret for nearly thirty years, we have now come to realise the crucial role that these codebreakers played in the Allied victory in WWII.

Written by Dermot Turing - the nephew of famous codebreaker Alan Turing - this illustrated account provides unique insight into the behind-the-scenes action at Bletchley Park. Discover how brilliant and eccentric individuals such as Dilly Knox, Alan Turing and Joan Clarke were recruited, the social life that grew up around the park, and how they dealt with the ever-present burden of secrecy. Dermot looks at the growth and evolution of the Bletchley codebreaking through the stories of the people who worked there. In following that story, surprises emerge and the lives of the people whose contributions have been lost are rediscovered.

Codebreakers of Bletchley Park brings to life the stories of the men and women who toiled day and night to crack the seemingly unbreakable enigma code. This book is highly recommended to everyone who is interested in not only the development of Bletchley Park as a codebreaking centre but also the people who made it happen.

Size: 153x232mm, 256 pages. ISBN: 9781 7895 0621 1

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Inside Enigma
The Secrets of the Enigma Machine and other Historic Cipher Machines

By Prof. Tom Perera, W1TP & Dan Perera

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SAVING £3.00 ON THE USUAL RRP

Many have heard about the Enigma machines of WWII but few have an understanding of the history of these impressive machines, how they work or went on to be developed. This fully updated second edition of Inside Enigma provides in depth detail on how these machines worked and why the even though the codes proved breakable that developments of this machine remained in service for many years after the war finished.

Inside Enigma has been written by established Enigma experts Tom and Dan Perera of the enigmamuseum.com who's collection of Enigma machines have been used in Hollywood blockbusters such as the Imitation Game. This book brings to life how the Enigma machines were constructed, worked, used, how the messages were encoded and why the Enigma code was considered virtually unbreakable. You will find explanations of the code breaking efforts, the mathematics involved along with the Cold-War developments by the British, Americans and Russians. There is in depth detail of the machines used in this period, including the Swiss machines that were developed. The writers have also provided information on how to find your own Enigma machine and what can be involved in restoring one. If your efforts to find a machine fail, there are even guides to building your own or even making a simple code wheel to bring the code method to life. There is much else besides this included in Inside Enigma as it is both comprehensive and copiously illustrated.

If you want a book covering the secrets, theory and practice of the Enigma Machine in the 20th Century then Inside Enigma provides the ideal source.

Size 202 x 254mm, 208 pages, 2nd Edition, ISBN 9781 9101 9371 6

Price: £9.99

Fuelling the Wars
PLUTO and the Secret Pipeline Network

By Tim Whittle

**** SPECIAL RSGB MEMBERS ONLY PRICING - 20% OFF USUAL RETAIL PRICE ****

This hardback book is a fascinating insight into something entirely unknown to many, the UK's network of petroleum pipelines transport fuel from refineries and terminals to major airports, airfields, and distribution depots. The largest of which has its origins as far back as the Second World War and is one of the few remnants, still operational, of the vast infrastructure that was built to fight that war.

In 1936 the RAF had total fuel reserves that amounted to just 8,000 tons. With a potential war in sight a programme for the construction of protected storage depots was started with the first of these coming on-line in 1939. In total the Air Ministry constructed 78 new storage depots with a total capacity of over 1.6 million tons. Possibly the best-known part of the network are the PLUTO cross channel pipelines. However, they were not as successful as popularly imagined, and the battle of Normandy was won without a drop of fuel being delivered by the pipeline. Immediately after the war most of the government system was decommissioned, but the 'Cold War' led to its reuse. In the 1950s new import facilities, civil storage depots (including large scale fuel reserves located in salt cavities) and pipelines were constructed. Increasing amounts of commercial fuel was also carried, with the system supplying fuel to both Heathrow and Gatwick airports. Following the end of Cold War, many more depots and some pipelines were closed. The use of the network for commercial aviation fuel, increased so new aviation fuel import facilities were connected to the system.

This pipeline network and storage system has constantly adapted, evolved and transformed itself. Fuelling the Wars sets out to chart how the system came to be built, its history and its continuing importance today.

Size: 250x250mm, 270 pages. ISBN: 9780 9928 5546 8

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Second World War Secret Bunkers
by Nick McCamley

BACK IN STOCK

**** SPECIAL RSGB MEMBERS ONLY PRICING - 20% OFF USUAL RETAIL PRICE ****

Produced in the same vein as the hugely popular Cold War Secret Bunkers book, Second World War Secret Bunkers is another comprehensive overview of all the major underground sites developed in great secrecy by the British government and military establishment in preparation for the Second World War. Lavishly illustrated on a high quality paper and accompanied by comprehensive captions and an authoritative text this book provides a fascinating guide to these structures.

Many of the sites included are enormous in extent (some encompassing upwards of 100 acres of underground space) and often over 100 feet below the surface. Sites illustrated include the vast Corsham network in Wiltshire: the army ammunition depots at Monkton Farleigh, Eastlays, Ridge and Tunnel Quarry (which had its own underground railway station linked to the Bristol to London main line); the Spring Quarry underground aircraft engine factory - reputedly the largest underground factory in the world; Copenacre and a series of other Admiralty stores and the museum repository at Westwood which housed all the treasures from the British Museum, the V&A and some forty other London museums and Galleries. Also included are the ill-fated RAF underground bomb stores at Llanberis, Harpur Hill, Chilmark and Fauld in Staffordshire which exploded in 1944 with catastrophic consequences. Other sites include the National Gallery's secret repository at Manod quarry; underground factories at Drakelow near Kidderminster, Birmingham, and Westwood; naval weapons stores in Wiltshire and Wales and the highly secret underground chemical weapons storage tunnels at Rhydymwn.

This hardback book is illustrated with approximately 450 colour and B&W archive photo's along with original engineers drawings and plans. Second World War Secret Bunkers provides a great guide to the forerunners of the Cold War bunkers and is thoroughly recommended reading.

ISBN: Hardback Size 250x250mm, 320 pages ISBN: 9780 9928 5542 0

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Backing Bletchley
The Codebreaking Outstations, From Eastcote to GCHQ

By Ronald Koorm

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This new hardback book, Backing Bletchley, takes an entirely new view of the WWII codebreaking operations - the rarely told story of the outstations that supported and complemented Bletchley Park. Well known for his codebreaking lectures, author Ronald Koorm explores the Y-stations, Wavendon, Gayhurst Manor, Adstock, Drayton Parslow, Letchworth, Stanmore and Dollis Hill that, after the war, evolved into today's GCHQ .

Backing Bletchley explores the complex relationship between Bletchley Park and its support codebreaking outstations, the background to the Enigma encoding machine and how Eastcote became the largest codebreaking outstation during the war. He analyses the development of improvements on Alan Turing's Bombe machine, the contribution of the WRNS (Wrens) in operating the machines and some of the social history showing how those Wrens, from varying social backgrounds, displayed outstanding teamwork under immense pressure at the codebreaking sites.

Post-war, Eastcote became GCHQ prior to moving to Cheltenham, and there were multiple uses of the site, including Cold War counter-inelligence operations. The author explores the link between Alan Turing and others in terms of the quest for Artificial Intelligence, and how talented individuals during the war helped shape the future. Backing Bletchley includes previously unpublished diagrams, charts and illustrations of the story of the outstations, which shed further light on the extraordinary historic events that occurred at them.

Backing Bletchley sets out, in a clear and very readable fashion, the complex interrelationship between Bletchley Park, its outstations and supporting infrastructure. It is a treasure-trove of information and thoroughly recommend for those interested in WWII code breaking.

156x234mm, 288 pages ISBN: 9781 4456 9652 2

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Haynes build your own Robot
By James Cooper

**** SPECIAL RSGB MEMBERS ONLY PRICING - OVER 43% OFF THE USUAL RRP****

If you are a follower of Robot Wars is the highly successful TV series or not, this Hardback book is very well written and incredibly detailed. This Haynes manual is produced in a similar style to the familiar 'how to' guides for cars but doesn't just include details about building robots but much more.

This Haynes - Build Your Own Robot Manual provides a unique behind-the-scenes look at the show - the arena, and both house and competitors' robots. Lavishly illustrated with high quality pictures there are step-by-step extensively illustrated instructions for building three project robots, from a simple 'self-navigating' robot, to a fully controllable Robot Wars challenger.

If you have been fascinated by robot competitors 'fighting to the death' on TV this could be the book for you. Why not indulge yourself whilst reading about construction techniques and of course competitor teams battling each other and the fearsome 'house robots' - Dead Metal, Matilda, Shunt and Sir Killalot?

The Haynes - Build Your Own Robot Manual essential reading for all Robot Wars fans and anyone interested in something different to construct.

Hardback, Size 216x279mm, 176 pages ISBN: 9781785211867

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ZAPPED
From Infrared to X-rays, the Curious History of Invisible Light
by Bob Berman

**** SPECIAL RSGB MEMBERS ONLY PRICING - 25% OFF ****

The universe is literally made of light. As you read this you are being swarmed by radio waves, step outside and you'll get a dose of ultraviolet and infrared from the sun. ZAPPED written by popular science writer Bob Berman, tells the story of all the light we cannot see, tracing infrared, microwaves, ultraviolet, X-rays, gamma rays, radio waves and other forms of radiation. This highly accessible book provides a view of the historic, world-altering discoveries in the 19th century through to their central role of invisible light in our modern way of life and even the consequences of our newest technologies.

An accessible blend of narrative history and science, ZAPPED tells the story of the unseen energies all around us. Bob reveals what microwaves from smartphones do to our brains, how birds use ultraviolet light to track prey, why gamma rays are the most powerful form of light, and so much more. Replete with amazing characters and mindboggling quantum leaps, ZAPPED offers a teasing peek into the future and some of the startling technologies we might yet live to see. The book even spends time with scientists attempting to detect broadcasts from extra-terrestrials and notes that in 1974 we sent a message to star cluster M13. If any aliens respond promptly, we'll hear from them in 52000

With a unique talent for making science relatable and fun, Bob Berman provides a lively, informative book, packed with "eureka moment" stories, that will delight anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the Invisible light spectrum.

Size 190x198mm, 272 pages ISBN: 9781 7860 7373 0

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The Voices
Spying and Radio Warfare During the Cold War

By Gordon Adams, G3LEQ

Many are aware of the spying activity that took place following WWII until the demise of the Soviet Union in 1991. Few though are aware of the radio jamming, broadcasts of encrypted messages or any of the other electronic skulduggery that took place during this time. This book shines a light on these activities that range from the extraordinary to the most mundane but most disruptive imaginable.

Readers of The Voices will find the details of the radio warfare engaged in the Americans, Soviets and British along with a number of other countries and groups from the Middle-East to the Caribbean. You will find details of the author's first experiences of radio jamming that lead to his deep fascination as to what was going happening on the airwaves at this time. There is discussion of the activities of propaganda stations such as Radio Marti, Radio Liberty, Radio Free Europe and many others. The mysterious Numbers Stations, their coded messages and the non-attributable callsigns are explained here. The author talks about where the spies operated from and the radio traffic they generated. There is a chapter on Orford Ness and the still secret Cobra Mist project along with a reflection of the role of Cyprus and the UK's Sovereign bases. There is even detail of the role of the BBC and their World Service during these times.

Produced as a tribute to the late, Gordon Adams, G3LEQ this book is based on series of articles first published in RadCom in 2000-2001 and a fond remembrance of someone whose tireless efforts influenced the RSGB for many years. This book has edited from those articles and expanded with new pictures and small amounts of material omitted from that series.

The Voices book is a truly eye-opening read for those who are unaware of this part of our history. It is simply thoroughly recommended reading for those interested in the Cold War and the radio warfare that took place in the latter part of the 20th Century.

ISBN: 9781 9101 9353 2 Size 174x240mm, 120 pages

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The Future of Violence
Robots and Germs, Hackers and Drones: Confronting the New Age of Threat

By Benjamin Wittes & Gabriella Blum

**** SPECIAL RSGB MEMBERS ONLY PRICING - 28% OFF ****

From drone warfare in the Middle East to digital spying, today's governments have harnessed the power of cutting-edge technology to awesome effect. But what happens when ordinary people have the same tools at their fingertips? Advances in cyber technology, biotechnology and robotics mean that more people than ever before have access to potentially dangerous technologies - from drones to computer networks and biological agents - which could be used to attack states and private citizens alike. The Future of Violence, details the myriad possibilities and enormous risks present in the modern world, and argues that if our national governments can no longer adequately protect us from harm, they will lose their legitimacy. The book also explains how governments, companies and citizens must rethink their efforts to protect our lives and liberty.

The way that technology is changing the threat landscape starkly highlights the importance of public policy in a way we have never seen before. The Future of Violence starts with the exciting "what if" stuff from assassinations by remote control spiders through to drones attacking sporting venues. The book goes onto explore the historical underpinnings that have led us to where we are today. Whilst all the threats discussed may come to pass this book throws a spotlight on the topic and provides a very thought provoking read.

ISBN 9781 4456 6668 6
Size 129x199mm, 336 pages

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Boffin
The Early Days of Radar and Radio Astronomy and Quantum Optics

By Prof. Robert Hanbury Brown

Professor Robert Hanbury Brown was one of the most important figures in the development of radar and of observational astronomy that the UK has ever produced. This fascinating autobiography provides a unique account of the history of radar in WWII and the development of radio astronomy in the post war years.

Boffin traces the evolution of radar from the static Home Chain used in the Battle of Britain to the inclusion of the first airborne radars used in aircraft for night-fighting. The book covers his work on the polarisation of radio waves, crucial in determining the optimum configuration of the radar aerials on all the early air-to-surface equipment operated by Coastal Command. Air-to-surface radar played a huge role in the detection of surfaced submarines and the winning of the 'Battle of the Atlantic'. In 1942, Hanbury Brown was seconded to the US Naval Research Laboratory in Washington, and working in conditions of great secrecy, he continued the development of the Eureka and Rebecca airborne radar programme.

Post War Hanbury Brown was involved in the early days in the development of Jodrell Bank. Sir Bernard Lovell commented that without Hanbury Brown it was unlikely that the Jodrell Bank Radio telescope would ever have been built. Boffin describes this period and his later work where Hanbury Brown became perhaps best known for his invention of the optical intensity interferometer. Working with other well-known figures in astronomy such as Cyril Hazard and Richard Twiss he was involved in many great advances. Using an optical interferometer he measured for the first time pulsars and quasars. Working in the Australian outback in the 1960s he designed and built a device with mirrors 23ft in diameter moving on a circular railway 600ft across.

Professor Robert Hanbury Brown was one of the brightest engineers of the time and Boffin provides his personal story and that of the development of Radar in WWII and the development of Radio Astronomy. This book is thoroughly recommended reading for anyone interested Radar, Astronomy and much besides.

Size: 174x240, 144 pages, ISBN: 9781 9101 9309 9

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Haynes Thunderbirds Manual - 50th Anniversary Edition
by Sam Denham

Over 30% OFF the rrp for RSGB Members

This new paperback edition of the Haynes Thunderbirds Agents' Technical Manual, published to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the first airing of the original Supermarionation series, in September 1965, is an inventive, informative and entertaining guide to the world's foremost rescue organisation.

Those familiar with the traditional "Haynes Manual" will recognise the Haynes approach that features cutaway drawings, detailed diagrams, colour illustrations and photographs. This updated edition features an additional seven cutaways of vehicles used in rescue missions, along with even more diagrams, illustrations and photographs. The Haynes Thunderbirds Manual provides the ultimate insight into the secrets of the fabulous International Rescue team of the Thunderbirds TV series. Intended for International Rescue field agents, the Haynes Thunderbirds Manual includes an introduction by Jeff Tracy, a look at late 21st Century Technology, Mission files, Operational procedures for agents' missions and much more.

Whether you are familiar with Thunderbirds or not, the Haynes Thunderbirds Manual provides the ultimate insight into the secrets of the fabulous International Rescue team and is an excellent read and a treasure trove of detail and trivia. The Haynes Thunderbirds Manual - 50th Anniversary Edition is not only a thoroughly recommended read but it also makes a great gift or treat.

Size: 270 x 210mm, 152 pages, ISBN: 9780 8573 3823 5

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Fort Bridgewoods
From Victorian Fort to WWII Y Station

By Stephen G Small, G4HJE

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This is the story of a Victorian Fort that was obsolete before the last stone was laid yet in the early twentieth century became one of the most secret places in the realm. It was here that the developing science of radio became a vital weapon of espionage and war. Without the painstaking work of the expert civilian intercept operators Bletchley Park may well have failed to break the Enigma code and the vital allied intelligence advantage may have been lost.

Fort Bridgewoods - From Victorian Fort to WWII Y Station sets out this fascinating story from its building to its final closure in 1968. The early role as Fleet protection in the late 19th Century and even its WWI activities are detailed along with the significant characters involved in its history. Readers will find much about the highly secret WWII activity as a 'Y' Station which became one of the most important signal gathering stations in Britain's 'Enigma Code' breaking operation. This book is packed with information and readers will find that the radios and equipment used are covered in detail from the early Marconi equipment to the DST-100 receiver, designed specifically for wireless interception work through to the familiar HRO sets used later in the war and are even details of the Hallicrafters and RCA receivers used.

Whilst the World slipped slowly into the abyss of a Second World War the operators of Fort Bridgewoods skilfully developed the science of signals intelligence and were intercepting both the secret diplomatic and military radio traffic. Without Fort Bridgewoods the vital early 'breaks' of the Enigma code would certainly not have happened. Fort Bridgewoods - From Victorian Fort to WWII Y Station describes all of this and provides an insight into the operational work of this 'Y' station and its part in WWII. If you are interested in the radio interception technology of WWII and its pioneers this book is a revelation.

Size: 174x240, 144 pages, ISBN: 9781 9101 9309 9

Price: £8.99

The Birth of British Radar
The Memoirs of Arnold 'Skip' Wilkins

Edited by Colin Latham and Anne Stobbs

**** SPECIAL OFFER PRICE ONLY £9.99 ****

Arnold "Skip" Wilkins is one of the unsung heroes of the British effort to develop radar. The Birth of British Radar book combines the memoirs of Skip with an authoritative overview of the historical importance of his work.

At the core of The Birth of British Radar are Skip's memoirs of his involvement in the British radar (or, as it was then known, radio direction finding, RDF) programme from its very inception in 1935. Working under the direction of Robert Watson-Watt, it was he who proposed using radio waves, bounced back from an enemy aircraft, to detect its position. Initially working entirely alone, he constructed prototype equipment which he used in the famous Daventry experiment conducted in a field near Weeden, Northants, on 26 February 1935. The success of this led to the establishment of the R&D group at Bawdsey Manor with its team of talented scientists, engineers and technicians. From there he describes the engineering and political developments which occurred to change faint traces into a fully working system which played such a crucial role in defending Britain in the Second World War.

This second edition of The Birth of British Radar has been greatly expanded from the original memoirs with a large array of additional material. Each chapter of the memoirs is set in a historical context with an explanatory note. There is a host of extra material including an interview with Skip, details of how radar grew, post war commemorations and much more. The Birth of British Radar contains mono and colour photos along with details of Skip's post war experiences. The story of this publicity-shy individual who never sought public recognition for his achievement, is fascinating. This book describes the struggles and triumphs from the earliest days of radar, in perhaps one of the most important periods in British electronics development, and is highly recommended.

Size 174x240mm, 128 pages ISBN: 9781 9050 8675 7

Price: £9.99

Cold War Secret Nuclear Bunkers
The Passive Defence of the Western World during the Cold War

By: Nick McCamley

Many will be aware that Britain is littered with a huge number of "Nuclear Bunkers" many of which are left over from the "Cold War". These relics represent the elaborate precautions that governments took to protect themselves in the event of nuclear war. However, for good reasons the precise nature of these arrangements has until now remained a closed book. Cold War Secret Nuclear Bunkers reveals for the first time the true extent of the preparations made.

Cold War Secret Nuclear Bunkers both surprises and fascinates with the scale and thoroughness of the installations and arrangements made. In the UK there were the London bunkers and the Regional War rooms built in the 50's to protect against the Soviet threat, and their replacement in 1958 by much more hardened, underground Regional Seats of Government and the unique Central Government War Headquarters at Corsham. The book also describes in fascinating detail a vast umbrella of radar stations that spanned from the Aleutian Islands through Canada to the North Yorkshire moors, all centred upon an enormous secret control centre buried below Cheyenne Mountain in Colorado. This is complemented in the United Kingdom with a chain of secret radars codenamed 'Rotor' built in the early 1950's, and eight huge, inland sector control centres, built over 100' underground at enormous cost.

Readers will find that Cold War Secret Nuclear Bunkers provides coverage of the UK Warning and Monitoring Organisation with its underground bunkers and observation posts, as well as the little known bunkers built by the various local authorities and public utilities. You will also find details of the various bunkers built for the U.S Administration, and developments in Canada. The book even examines the lack of provision for the general population, comparing the situation in the USA and the UK with the Soviet Union.

This book is a hugely fascinating read that details a huge array of bunkers in the UK and further afield. Recommended reading for anyone interested cold war history or just the details of these largely 'off limits' structures.

156x232mm, 288 pages, ISBN: 9781783030101

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Centenary
100 Years Working for Amateur Radio

By Elaine Richards, G4LFM

As part of the Centenary celebrations the RSGB has commissioned and produced this special hardback book looking at 100 years of RSGB History. In its first century, the RSGB has represented the interests of members at national and international level and provided the framework within which the early pioneers and experimenters thrived. Centenary outlines the century of activity of the RSGB and its members.

Centenary is a peek at the history of the RSGB, which is a rich tapestry indeed. The stories gathered together here provide a glimpse of the people behind the organisation and the way they have shaped the history of the Society. It would have been impossible for all the stories, famous names and events from the first 100 years have made it into print. Nevertheless, this collection of events gives a flavour of the RSGB history and the hobby it supports. From the first days and its initial membership of four, through two World Wars to a new Millennium, the RSGB's membership have taken part in propagation experiments, pushed the boundaries of radio and electronic knowledge and shown what international amateur radio relations is all about. Whether it's proving that VHF communications is more than line-of-sight, showing the world how far radio signals can travel or putting satellites into space, radio amateurs have been involved in it all. Centenary brings together some of the best achievements and tells the story of some of the most well known names in amateur radio history.

Packed with over 200 colour and mono photographs this book provides a fascinating insight into the life and times of the RSGB. Produced as a quality hardback book, with a glossy slip cover and glossy paper throughout, to bring out the detail, this book is exceptional. If you would like a part of the RSGB centenary celebration then Centenary will grace any bookshelf.

ISBN: 9781 9050 8689 4, Hardback
Size: 300x225mm (landscape), 144 pages

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RSGB Member's Price £16.99

Haynes Owner Workshop Manuals Messerschmitt Bf109
By: Paul Blackah & Malcolm Lowe

Produced as a sister volume to the Haynes Workshop Manual for Supermarine Spitfire this book provides the same treatment to the Luftwaffe's Messerschmitt Bf109. This single-seat fighter was the main combat adversary of the RAF's Hurricanes and Spitfires in the Battle of Britain.

This Haynes Owners Workshop Manual covers the history of the Bf109, restoration to flight, the views of owners, pilots and engineers, and operating and servicing insights. Data boxes cover Bf109 facts and figures, plus interviews with Luftwaffe pilots and modern-day owner-pilots. Illustrated with a mix of specially commissioned colour and archive photographs, the Bf109 Manual also includes illustrations from Luftwaffe official wartime servicing manuals, and coverage of restoration projects in the UK and overseas.

Hardback, Size 270 x 210mm, 160 pages, ISBN 9781-8442-5642-6

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Non Member's Price £17.99
RSGB Member's Price £13.49 (25% off)

The Three Dimensions of John Logie Baird
By Dr Douglas Brown, GM8FFH

**** ONLINE ONLY SPECIAL OFFER - ONLY £7.99 ****

John Logie Baird (1888-1946) is remembered as the inventor of television but his work in colour, 3D and holographic television is much less well known. As are his significant contributions to other information sciences and their resulting technologies. The Three Dimensions of John Logie Baird sets out this work and adds a perspective not seen before to the story of this great inventor.

The Three Dimensions of John Logie Baird details the story of this great man from his early years through, to those where despite ailing health and poverty he did more to advance the early development of television than any other individual. He planted the seed, which has grown into a multinational, trillion dollar video and communications media industry. Baird is often dismissed as the person who invented a crude type of television which was quickly superseded but this book lays these criticisms to rest once and for all. For over a quarter of a century Baird developed monochrome, colour and 3D television, and many of the techniques he pioneered are still used in modern day systems. This book goes into detail about how the systems worked and their later development after John Logie Baird's death. The author has even provided projects that can be made which demonstrate the Baird's technology, including colour broadcasting.

The Three Dimensions of John Logie Baird is fascinating read that provides an excellent reference work on his inventions, an insight into the world of television and shows just how much we owe this great inventor.

Size 174x240mm, 208 pages (mono & colour): ISBN: 9781 9050 8679 5

Price: £7.99

22 Radio & Receiver Projects for the Evil Genius
By Tom Petruzzellis

Using easy to find parts and tools 22 Radio and Receiver Projects - for the Evil Genius provides all you need to build and enjoy a wide range of radio receivers.

This book provided instructions and plans for 22 projects covering a wide range of frequencies including VLF, ULF, 80/40 Metres, 6/2 Metres, VHF and many others. There are AM, FM, CW projects along with Air Band and Radio Telescope receivers. You will also find full details of a Lightning Storm Monitor, Magnetometer and Aurora monitor. Details are provided of how to apply construction techniques, identify the parts you need and much more.

22 Radio and Receiver Projects - for the Evil Genius, provides over 300 pages of diagrams and information. From the simple crystal set to the most complex project everyone interested in constructing radio receivers will find something here.

Size 215x275mm, 304 pages ISBN 9780-0714-8929-4

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Non Member's Price £14.99
RSGB Member's Price £12.74

Full Circle
A Dream Denied, A Vision Fulfilled

By Theodore J. Cohen

Solly's dream is for his son Teddy to one day become a concert violinist. Eventually he comes to understand and to endure the heartbreak of knowing that the dream never will be realized. As Solly watches, life takes Teddy from gifted violin student to adult engineer and scientist, leaving no time for the career in music Solly so dearly wants his son to pursue. In the end, there emerges the essence of redemption as Teddy returns to the violin late in life and fulfills his and his father's vision. The story, which is a work of fiction based on real events, will fascinate readers from ages ten to one hundred who are interested in radio, communications, and music and in how it was to grow up in a family whose members trace their heritage to that great wave of immigrants that crashed onto America's shores in the mid- to late 1800s.

Size 204x127, paperback, 216 pages, ISBN: 9781 4490 2914 2

**** NOW 55% OFF THE USUAL RETAIL PRICE ****

Price: £4.99

Perera's Telegraph Collectors Guide
By Prof. Tom Perera, W1TP

This is the third edition of the famous Perera's Telegraph Collectors Guide. Written by the leading expert on Telegraph Keys this book provides the reader with the comprehensive guide to telegraph keys. There is a historical background of telegraph keys and details of the types of keys available from the earliest 1830 varieties through to the present day. Morse code keys, spark & wireless keys, military keys from around the world and radio keys are all covered. There is also a wide range of material covering practice sets, semi-automatic keys (or "Bugs"), electronic keyers, paddles, home-made keys and even novelty items. There are even tips on restoring telegraph keys. The book also provides the latest guide prices for the keys along with a hugely valuable cross reference and comprehensive index of the material.

This book contains:
* Historical background
* Details of key types
* Hundreds of pictures
* Current key prices
* Tips on restoration
* Comprehensive & Cross-Referenced Index

This guide is ideal companion for anyone with an interest in telegraph keys and is a fascinating reference work on telegraph and Morse keys since their very inception

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Non Member's Price £9.99
RSGB Member's Price £8.49

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