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MSR-901
Precision microwave intercept receiver · 1-12 GHz - this page is a stub

The MSR-901 was a precision microwave receiver developed and produced in the early 1980s by Micro-Tel Corporatation in Hunt Valley (Baltimore, US). The receiver covers a frequency range of 1-12 GHz and was intended for Technical Surveillance and Counter Measures (TSCM).

The receiver was built using state-of-the-art components, such as YIG oscillators and filters, and was primarily built for various agencies of the US Government. Later, the receiver also became popular with the agencies of other countries, who needed an export license for it, as the MSR-901 was regarded a strategic item.

The image on the right shows a typical MSR-901, housed inside a Samsonite briefcase. The unit is fully self-contained and has a built-in AC mains power supply (at the rear) as well as rechargable NiCd batteries for mobile use.
  
Micro-Tel MSR-901

The MSR-901 is also known as a counterespionage or intercept receiver. All controls and connections are on the front half of the receiver. A suitable antenna can be connected to the N-connector socket at the front right. The MSR-901 was followed by the slightly improved MSR-902 (1-18 GHz), the MSR-903 and finally the MSR-904.

Samsonite briefcase with Micro-Tel MSR-901
Micro-Tel MSR-901
Micro-Tel MSR-901 in Samsonite briefcase
Close-up of the MSR-901
Close-up of the controls
Frequency adjustment
Brandname, model number and calibration tag
Power supply
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Samsonite briefcase with Micro-Tel MSR-901
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Micro-Tel MSR-901
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Micro-Tel MSR-901 in Samsonite briefcase
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Close-up of the MSR-901
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Close-up of the controls
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Frequency adjustment
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Brandname, model number and calibration tag
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Power supply

Help required
Although the MSR-90x range of microwave receivers has been very popular within certain circles, it is very difficult to find any documentation about them. We are currently looking for the user manual and, if possible, the service manual. Furthermore, we like to hear stories from people who have used these receivers in the field. If you think you can help, please contact us.

Further information
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© Crypto Museum. Created: Friday 15 April 2016. Last changed: Saturday, 06 October 2018 - 14:45 CET.
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