▼ Menu

VP4

Sensibly equivalent to:
A50M AC/VP1 CV3788 MVS-Pen VP4A VPT4B
See also:
Mullard SP4 & VP4 Advert - Mullard VP4 - Mullard VP4 & SP4 Advert - The Latest Valves - New Valves - Delayed Diode AVC - New Valves in Old Sets
    
Extras ▼

 

The VP4 is a variable μ RF pentode that was introduced in 1933 on the B5 base. A year later the B7 base version was introduced.
The gain is controlled by altering the bias on the control grid, normal operation is with the bias ranging from -2 to -22 Volts. In a superhet receiver this variation would be derived from the rectified voltage at the end of the IF chain (AGC). The stronger the signal the greater the rectified voltage and this the more negative the control grid is driven and that in turn reduces the amplification of the VP4 in the IF stage.
looking into the top reveals the screen grid to be a mesh cage. See also MS4 for more detail.
The classic envelope is 49 mm in diameter, and excluding the base pins is 123 mm tall.
References: Data-sheet & 1043. Type VP4 was first introduced in 1933. See also 1933 adverts.

 

Pin Connections
B5
1
2
3
4
5
tc
g2
g1
h
h
k,g3
a

 

Absolute Maximum Operating Conditions
Pentode
Vh
Ah
Va
Vs
Vg
mAa
mAs
ra
gm
μ
4.0
1.0
200
100
-2
4.5
1.9
1.0M
2.3
Thanks to Andy Cowley for supplying the above PDF datasheet.
Updated February 26, 2023.
Return to Main Index