Here’s something I lusted after as a youngster: A battery operated TV! Fifty years ago, the February 1965 issue of Popular Science reviewed the available options, and proclaimed that all of the eight models tested performed so well that they can’t help but be popular. It noted that most of the portables with telescoping antennas outperformed home sets with outside antennas. They all had good picture and sound quality. They ranged in size from “the size of a desk dictionary” up to “as big as a bowling ball bag.” The article noted that models using rechargable batteries, which were good for about 50 charges, would work out to about 6 cents per viewing hour. Normal dry cell batteries would work out to about 40 cents an hour.

Screen sizes ranges from four inches up to nine. The article noted that the four-inch models were useful only for one person viewing, but the nine-inch models would accomodate a group. All of the sets could also be powered with household AC current, and many came with the plug to watch in the car on 12 volts.

But alas, for an impecunious youngster, the prices were all well out of reach, ranging from $149.95 up to $199.95.

Note:  If you’re looking for a modern battery operated or 12 volt TV, please visit the guide on my website.

Click Here For Today’s Ripley’s Believe It Or Not Cartoon