Supreme Model 385 Automatic
The Model 385 Automatic was introduced in 1936 and is the combination of Supreme's Model 89 Tube Tester and Model 339 Deluxe Radio Analyzer. It is a Free Reference Point, or Freepoint, Tester which allows checking tubes and testing circuits under actual operating conditions. A tube can be removed from its socket in the radio and replaced by a plugin cable from the analyzer. The tube is replugged into a socket on the analyzer for in-circuit testing and every tube pin is now easily accessible at jacks on the analyzer for making measurements while the radio is operating. This type of testing works best with the older tubes.
I acquired this tester 30 plus years ago. It was restored at that time but it could now do with another update.
I acquired this tester 30 plus years ago. It was restored at that time but it could now do with another update.
Originally this tester was missing its top lid, but I had one custom made to fit. I couldn't get it made in oak, but the difference is not very noticeable. I also recreated the tube chart in the lid.
That's a lot of pin jacks. The front panel is very busy with controls, sockets and jacks, in addition to the two fan meters and giant neon bulb.
I recreated the tube chart from scratch using images I found of other testers and then had it laminated. That was a long time ago and I guess now days you can just download a copy online.
This is the Volt-Ohm-mA meter on the left side of the tester.
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And this is the English reading tube tester and capacitance checker meter on the right side of the tester.
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Page created 6/8/2020
Last edited 6/8/2020
Last edited 6/8/2020
