Name/TitleEquipment: Both Electrocardiograph No 151
About this objectBoth Electrocardiograph No 151, the fourth model. Slightly different from another fourth generation model held in the collection in that it has a winch like handle protruding from the side. A diamond stylus recorded information on a smoked glass disc.
The idea for The Both Electrocardiograph was born because of a casual conversation with a doctor. Edward ‘Ted’ Both, had come from the country at 16 to work at the laboratories of Kerr Grant, a Physics Professor at the University of Adelaide. He sustained a hand injury which required treatment by a doctor. During treatment the two casually chatted, with the doctor mentioning that he wished he had a portable cardiograph. Ted volunteered to make him one. This conversation set in motion the invention of a new type of Electrocardiograph. In 1932 Ted’s Electrocardiograph was ready; it was the first in the world to provide an instant trace of the heart’s beat. Previously Cardiographs had used a photographic method that required time for film to be developed.
Also includes a leather carry cover, various accessories and cables as well as a small instructional booklet. The leather handle has broken off the top of the lid.
Date MadeCa 1938
Place MadeAdelaide, Australia
Medium and MaterialsWood, leather, glass, metal
MeasurementsL 41cm x W 22cm X D 25cm
Subject and Association Description"The machine is known in the trade as a ‘smoke on glass’ reader. The round disc would be placed in front of a flame so that it would get a smoke film across it. The disc would rotate and the diamond stylus would etch into the smoke covered disc and record the patient’s heart rate onto glass. The microscope was used to view the glass." Robert Wiseman, 23/08/2022
Object TypeEquipment
Object numberAR#1253
Copyright LicenceAll rights reserved