BC-727

[David L. Stinson]

Stefan Bishay wrote:
>
> What is a BC-727? I have two of these little boxes, with two red indicator
> lights wired together. All I know is that they are "Self-Destruction
> Indicator,  P/O SCR-515 IFF set" I have four of the BC-645 Transponders,
> and a dynamotor, but this box is a mystery to me. Any help? I just can't
> understand how it works with no external connections.

They did have external connections.
The boxes were installed differently in each type of aircraft,
so were not pre-drilled.

The BC-645 originally contained a small self-destruct charge
that was used to destroy the set and prevent it falling into
enemy hands.  I don't remember if this is the same
"screw-in" charge as in the APX-6, but I think it is.
The "destruct" sequence required pressing two
buttons simultainiously.  Each of these buttons had its own
light in the BC-727.  They were installed when flight tests
showed that pilots couldn't be sure they had engaged both
switches and really destroyed the unit.
Look for a metal bracket mounted in your unit with a
threaded hole of about 3/8th inch diameter.  If there
is a strange device screwed into this hole with
"HE" written on it, you've got a "live" one and
should take appropriate measures.

I don't know anything about explosives,
but I wouldn't want to try unscrewing
something made with 60-year-old high-explosive.
But then, if you call the local authorities, they'll
probably send a SWAT team and burn your house down
(with you inside).  The local news will give you
your "15 minutes of fame" (posthumusly), reporting
the heroic foiling of a terrorist bomber.

God help you!

73 DE Dave Stinson AB5S
arc5 at ix.netcom.com

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