Radio Shack 28-225 "Science Fair 10 in 1 Junior Electronic Lab Kit": Museum Object and Cultural History

The object in the museum catalogue

A kit containing an electrical board constructed so that children may learn about radio science. Ten experiments are described in the enclosed booklet. Unit operates with one 1.5 V AA battery. Most components come mounted on the wood grain plastic base, and a package of wires is included. Components include an antenna coil, strap key, and a tuning dial.

Toys and project kits have been used to teach the basics of electrical science and technology since the 18th century. They reflect the state of the art at the time they are made, and give evidence of areas perceived to be at the forefront of knowledge. Made by the retail supplier Tandy and sold through their Radio Shack outlets and catalogs, this is a beginner’s level kit. The projects are limited and designed to lead students to more advanced project kits.

Materials, dates and provenance

• date made: 1972
• maker: Tandy Corporation
• Object Name: educational toy
• Measurements: unit: 2 1/4 in x 7 3/4 in x 4 7/8 in; 5.715 cm x 19.685 cm x 12.3825 cm
• Measurements: package: 2 1/2 in x 8 3/4 in x 5 3/4 in; 6.35 cm x 22.225 cm x 14.605 cm
• ID Number: 2022.0278.23
• accession number: 2022.0278
• catalog number: 2022.0278.23
• Data Source: National Museum of American History

Sources and reuse

Catalogue descriptions and facts adapted from National Museum of American History through the Smithsonian's official Open Access dataset. This record explicitly marks its metadata CC0 1.0; formatting and selection have been changed.