High-altitude/high-reliability version of 1641 with higher PIV (2300V) and current (275 mA) ratings — likely pin-compatible but different electrical limits
Same UX4 base and 5V filament full-wave rectifier, but plates exit via base pins 2 and 3 instead of top caps — not pin-compatible
Electrical Specifications
Absolute Maximum
Anode Voltage (max)AC Voltage per Plate (max RMS)1,000V
Anode Dissipation (max)Anode Dissipation (max)25W
Rectifier
Peak Inverse VoltagePeak Inverse Voltage2,120V
DC Output Current (max)DC Output Current (max)250mA
Heater
Notes
Plates are brought out via two top-cap connections, not through the base pins. The UX4 base carries only the filament. This is unusual for a full-wave rectifier and means the 1641 is not interchangeable with type 80 or other UX4 rectifiers that use base pins for plates.
Originally designated RK-60 by Raytheon; GE marketed the same tube as GL-1641. The military/JAN designation is 1641.
The 596 is a high-altitude (60,000 ft) high-reliability version with slightly higher ratings (PIV 2300V, 275 mA). Pin-compatible but rated for more demanding service conditions.
Requires a 5U4G adapter for use in standard octal rectifier sockets — several aftermarket adapters exist for this purpose.