In the first place, there is the weight of the necessary
installation. In the case of the dirigible this may be a
secondary consideration, but with the aeroplane it is a matter of
primary and vital importance. Again, under present conditions,
the noise of the motor is apt to render the intelligent
deciphering of messages while aloft a matter of extreme
difficulty, especially as these are communicated in code. The
engine noise might be effectively overcome by the use of a
muffler such as, is used with automobiles, but then there is the
further difficulty of vibration.
This problem is being attacked in an ingenious manner. It is
proposed to substitute for audible signals visual
interpretations, by the aid of an electric lamp, the fluctuations
in which would correspond to the dots and dashes of the Morse
code. Thus the airman would read his messages by sight instead
of by sound.
This method, however, is quite in its infancy, and although
attractive in theory and fascinating as a laboratory experiment
or when conducted under experimental conditions, it has not
proved reliable or effective in aeronautical operations.
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