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I don't know when then term "kluge"
(aka "kludge") came to mean compilation of assorted components to assemble a make-shift
type of device that, while performing the intended task, is really a poor attempt
at a solution. The typical kludge barely gets the job done, is unreliable and/or
dangerous, and does not last long. Whether or not the term was in common use when
this promotion for Kludge Electronics appeared in a 1946 issue of Radio News
magazine, the family was obviously proud enough of its name to warrant using it
for the company's title. The full-page ad proclaimed "Soon ... A New 'Ham'
Era," as a prelude to is soon-to-be-release line of amateur radio products featuring
"advanced electronics and ultra-modern principles of design." Many companies were
promising great new equipment based on lessons learned from the recently ended Word
War. Here is another advertisement from
Kludge Electronics
from a month earlier in Radio News, where I dug a little into the etymology
of the word.
Kluge Electronics Company Ad
 Soon ... A New "Ham" Era
The curtain is rising on a remarkable "new era" development for the "hams" and
potential hams of the world! It's so logical ... so ingenious, in its use of advanced
electronics and ultra-modern principles of design that we have kept the secret for
showings in all parts of the country, at the same time. Dealers will be ready soon.
Don't miss their Kluge "Premieres" ... It won't be long!
Kluge Electronics Company
1031 North Alvarado Street, Los Angeles 26, California
Posted May 30, 3022
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