About the Telechron Program Clock
The Telechron Master Program Clock Model 131A Type 1664AR is a specialized master clock designed not just for timekeeping but for automated scheduling and time distribution. This floor-standing clock combines a precision synchronous motor clock with a programmable tape mechanism that can trigger events at predetermined times throughout the day.
How the Program Clock Works
At the heart of the clock is the familiar Telechron synchronous motor, locked to the 60 Hz AC power grid for accurate timekeeping. But the Model 131A goes far beyond simple time display. Its program tape mechanism uses a continuously advancing tape -- either punched paper or metal -- that activates electrical contacts at specific times.
The program tape rotates once every 24 hours, driven by the same synchronous motor that keeps the clock. As the tape advances, punched holes align with sensing pins or contacts. When a hole passes over a contact, it closes a circuit that can activate:
- Bell signals -- for class changes in schools
- Lighting controls -- turning lights on or off at scheduled times
- Slave clock synchronization pulses -- keeping all building clocks in agreement
- HVAC and equipment controls -- starting or stopping machinery on schedule
The Controller Section
The lower portion of the case houses the controller section, which contains the relays and switching mechanisms that translate the program tape's signals into high-current switching. This allowed a single master clock to control multiple circuits throughout a building, each on its own independent schedule.
Slave Clock Synchronization
The Model 131A was designed to work with Telechron's dual-motor slave clocks. These slave clocks ran independently using their own synchronous motors but received periodic correction pulses from the master clock. If a slave clock lost power or drifted, the correction motor would advance the hands until they matched the master clock's time.
Specifications
- Model: 131A
- Type: 1664AR
- Power: 110V AC, 60 cycles
- Timekeeping: Synchronous motor
- Program tape: 24-hour cycle with multiple programmable channels
- Case: Floor-standing wooden case
- Manufacturer: Warren Telechron Company, Ashland, Massachusetts
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| Telechron Master Clock -- full view showing the tall floor-standing case with clock face and program mechanism | Close-up of the clock face with hour and minute markings |
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| Controller section at bottom of the case containing the switching and relay mechanisms | Program tape -- a paper or metal tape with punched holes that triggers timed events throughout the day |
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| Identification plate from the front of the case: Model 131A Type 1664AR | |