Radio Corporation of America (RCA)

Historical Address:
Radio Corporation of America
Harrison, NJ 07029

1936
RCA Manufacturing Co., Inc.
Camden, N.J., U.S.A.

 

Overview

RCA (Radio Corporation of America) was an American electronics company known for its role in radio, television, and communications technology throughout the 20th century.

History

RCA was founded in 1919 as the Radio Corporation of America. It was created by General Electric to manage radio patents and expand the use of wireless communication in the United States. Early ownership included General Electric, Westinghouse, AT&T, and United Fruit Company.

In the 1920s, RCA played a central role in the development of broadcast radio. The company established the National Broadcasting Company (NBC) in 1926, creating one of the first nationwide radio networks.

During the 1930s and 1940s, RCA advanced electronic research and manufacturing, including radio receivers, transmitters, and early television systems. RCA demonstrated electronic television in the late 1930s and began commercial television broadcasting in the United States.

In 1932, RCA became an independent company after General Electric was required to divest its ownership due to antitrust actions.

During World War II, RCA contributed to military electronics, including radar and communications equipment. After the war, RCA expanded its consumer product lines, producing radios, televisions, and phonographs.

In the 1950s and 1960s, RCA was a major manufacturer of consumer electronics and broadcasting equipment. The company also developed the NTSC color television system, which became the standard in the United States.

In the 1970s, RCA entered the CB radio market, producing a range of transceivers for consumer and mobile use.

In 1986, RCA was acquired by General Electric. Following the acquisition, GE retained the RCA brand for certain products and sold off various divisions, including the broadcast network NBC, which remained under GE ownership for a period.