Overview
Collins Radio Company was a major American manufacturer of communications equipment, known for high-performance designs used in military, aviation, commercial, and amateur radio applications. Founded by Arthur A. Collins, the company became especially well known for its mechanical filter technology and precision-engineered radio systems.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Company Name | Collins Radio Company |
| Founder | Arthur A. Collins (W0CXX) |
| Founded | 1932 |
| Headquarters | Cedar Rapids, Iowa, USA |
| Industry | Communications electronics |
| Notable Products | Mechanical filters, HF radios, avionics systems |
| Acquisition | Acquired by Rockwell International (1973) |
| Successor Entity | Rockwell Collins (later Collins Aerospace) |
Description
Collins equipment is widely recognized for its engineering quality, reliability, and innovation. The company played a key role in advancing radio communications technology, particularly through the development of mechanical filters that provided superior selectivity in receivers. These filters became a standard component in both military and high-end commercial communication systems.
Collins products were used extensively in aviation communications, including long-range HF systems, as well as in ground-based military and government installations. The company also produced highly regarded amateur radio equipment that remains collectible and operational today.
History
Collins Radio Company was started in Art Collins’ W0CXX basement in the late summer of 1932. Early work focused on transmitter design, quickly gaining attention for reliability and performance.
During World War II, Collins became a significant supplier of communications equipment to the U.S. military. This growth continued into the Cold War era, with the company expanding into avionics and advanced communication systems for both military and commercial aviation.
In 1973, Collins Radio Company was acquired by Rockwell International. Following the acquisition, the company continued operating as part of Rockwell’s aerospace and defense operations, maintaining its reputation for high-quality communications equipment.
Rockwell/Collins continued to develop advanced, often cutting-edge systems, primarily for military and aerospace applications. Operations based in Cedar Rapids, Iowa have supported major clients including Aeronautical Radio, Inc. (ARINC), the United States Air Force, and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Arthur A. Collins passed away in 1987. His amateur radio callsign, W0CXX, is now used by the Rockwell Collins Employees Amateur Radio Club located at the company’s Cedar Rapids facilities.