Historical information

When this AVOMETER leather case was being utilised in the early 1950's it contained the "leading" edge of electrical measuring instrumentation.The first meter was produced by Automatic Coil Winder and Electrical Equipment Co. in 1923. This model was produced in the time from 1933 to 1951 when it was superseded by the most popular model, Model 8 (1951 to 2008).

Significance

This leather case which holds its AVO Meter brought the measuring of three electrical power indicators i.e., amps, volts and ohms into one measuring unit. By using a "one fits all" unit, the carrying of separate measuring devices was reduced considerably. The need for a mountainous and a large area of operational requirements, such as the SEC Vic Kiewa Hydro Electricity Scheme, to minimise the weight of equipment carried by electricians and technicians was of the utmost relevance. The significance of this meter to the Kiewa Valley region relates to the impact of modern technology (at that time) upon a mainly rural environment. This equipment shows how the boost of "modern" equipment into the area because of the "Hydro Scheme" was facilitated a lot faster than would have taken under "normal" evolutionary time. The speed of information on all "new technology" had a relatively slow assimilation rate to those living in rural communities. The use of solid leather carrying bags for transporting equipment up and down the mountains provided some form of protection against bumps and dust.

Physical description

This carry case for its AVO meter has an outer leather covering with an inner thick cardboard liner. The case has two mild steel buckles but stitched onto one side but no lid to fasten down. The sides are stitched together with strong tick twine. On either side there are small strap holds. On the bottom are four large chromed metal lugs acting as feet to keep the bottom from lying flat on any floor. The outside bottom has been branded "SOLID COWHIDE"

Inscriptions & markings

Between the front two buckles is a identification plate riveted onto the cowhide "STATE ELECTRICITY COMMISSION OF VICTORIA ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING SECTION"