Overview
CBS Laboratories was the research and development division of Columbia Broadcasting System (CBS), established to support advances in broadcasting technology, electronics, communications systems, and related scientific research. The laboratory became known for work involving television technology, color broadcasting, audio systems, broadcast transmission equipment, and electronic component development during the mid-20th century.
The division conducted engineering research for CBS broadcasting operations while also developing commercial and industrial electronic technologies. CBS Laboratories engineers contributed to improvements in television broadcasting standards, audio recording systems, FM broadcasting, and professional broadcast equipment.
CBS Laboratories also supported CBS electronics manufacturing activities associated with CBS Electronics Division and CBS-Hytron operations during the vacuum tube and early semiconductor eras.
The laboratory operated during a period of rapid growth in radio and television technology, helping CBS compete with other major electronics and broadcasting companies including RCA, General Electric, and Westinghouse.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Industry | Electronics Research and Broadcasting Technology |
| Parent Company | Columbia Broadcasting System (CBS) |
| Primary Activities | Broadcast research, television technology, audio engineering |
| Products/Research | Broadcast systems, television technology, audio systems, electronics |
| Associated Divisions | CBS Electronics Division, CBS-Hytron |
Description
CBS Laboratories performed research and engineering development related to television broadcasting, radio transmission, audio reproduction, and professional broadcast systems. The laboratory developed technologies used within CBS broadcasting operations as well as commercial broadcast equipment and electronics products.
Research activities included television transmission systems, color television technology, FM broadcasting improvements, magnetic recording systems, and professional studio equipment.
History
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1930s | CBS expanded technical research operations |
| 1940s | Research supported wartime and broadcast technology development |
| 1950s | CBS Laboratories involved in television and electronics research expansion |
| 1960s | Continued broadcast engineering and semiconductor-era research |
| 1970s | Research operations evolved with changes in CBS corporate structure |
Historical Addresses
| Period | Address |
|---|---|
| 1950s–1970s | CBS Laboratories, Stamford, Connecticut |
| Earlier Operations | CBS Technical and Engineering Facilities, New York, New York |
References
- https://ethw.org/CBS_Laboratories
Historical overview of CBS Laboratories engineering and broadcast technology work. - https://worldradiohistory.com/Archive-Company-Publications/CBS/CBS-Laboratories-Reports.htm
Archive of CBS Laboratories technical reports and engineering publications. - https://www.smpte.org/
Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers reference material related to broadcast engineering developments involving CBS Laboratories. - https://www.britannica.com/topic/CBS-American-company
Encyclopaedia Britannica history of CBS and associated technical operations.