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The Advent of Television
From the 19th century, experiments to transmit
pictures on screens have been continuously made
based on scientific discoveries leading to the
subsequent development of mechanical transmitters
and receivers. Kálmán Tihanyi recognized the
inherent difficulties which hindered further progress
and aimed at a comprehensive solution. For that,
he spent nearly nine years preparing and studying,
bearing fruit as "Radioskop." Tihanyi's distinction
is that he managed to introduce almost all of the
critical solutions that would make television a
viable instrument, understanding the capability
of the cathode ray tube for both transmitter and
receiver. Featuring a fully electronic transmission
and receiving system, the Hungarian inventor
successfully included the principle of accumulation
and "storage" of electrical charges into the device.
Utilization of Technology
An evident invention with global influence, television was not
merely a novelty medium or a new tool for entertainment in
everyday life. The system was adaptable in various fields
such as science, research, and medicine. Tihanyi's invention
is utilized in other industrial sectors up to this day, enhancing
the quality of life for many. The technology was also used for
military purposes, including television guidance for defense
applications, building prototypes of a camera for remotely
guided aircraft. The Radio Corporation of America contacted
Kálmán Tihanyi in 1930 and bought his patent in 1934, and
implemented his inventions to create a new television system
and move a step forward.