Many thanks to SWLing Post contributor Dennis Dura, who shares this article from Hackaday that explores the fascinating “last gasp” innovations of vacuum tube technology long after transistors had already begun taking over the electronics industry. The article dives into late-era tube developments like compactrons, lighthouse tubes, and RCA’s remarkable nuvistor—tiny, rugged, low-noise tubes that pushed thermionic technology to its limits in applications ranging from military gear to high-end audio and RF equipment. It’s a terrific read.

Click here to read: The Vacuum Tube’s Last Stand(s)